April 30, 2017
By Ginger Hamilton, AJJ
The Association Jeanne Jugan (AJJ)is a lay group of men and women who have promised to commit themselves to serve the elderly with joy and love by following the example of humility and confidence left to us by Jeanne Jugan.
On Sunday, April 30, AJJ members renewed our promise after Mass in the Chapel. May 1 is the Feast Day of our patron Saint, St. Joseph the Worker. In honor of St. Jeanne Jugan’s devotion to St. Joseph, traditionally the Association Jeanne Jugan (AJJ) members renew their promises close to that date.
In preparation for our “Promise Day”, we participated in a spiritual retreat led by Fr. Matt Jameson from St. Theresa’s Parish. The theme of this year’s retreat was “Joy and St. Jeanne Jugan.” Fr. Matt asked us to contemplate how we prepare and perform our duties as AJJ members. He then asked us to think about ‘what brings us joy (especially in the midst of sadness)’. Each of us shared a story of how a Resident has touched our lives and hearts. It was amazing to hear the stories about Residents today and from the past. As the profound stories unfolded, it truly made us realize what a blessing it is to be a member of the Association Jeanne Jugan.
After we renewed our Promise, the kitchen staff treated us to a fabulous lunch with the Sisters.
AJJ activities at St. Joseph’s Home include volunteering in the Home and on special occasions, visiting Residents who are hospitalized, room-bound or in need of special attention and participating in periodic spiritual events, such as retreats and prayer services. If you would like to learn more about Association Jeanne Jugan, please call (847) 358-5700.
AJJ Promise Day