By Juleana Beutler, Katelyn Payne, Marie Garro, Hospitality Interns
“What is A Hospitality Intern?” Since arriving here, a little over a week ago, my co-interns and I have been asked this question multiple times. To begin answering it, we must first explain the main reason for the program; and no, it’s not to escape our homes for six weeks, though that is a plus.
The program was intended to give college-aged, young women a glimpse at what it’s like to be a Little Sister of the Poor. That’s not to say that we are mandated to become religious sisters, but just to say we are open to the possibility. Instead of a weekend retreat at a religious home, which can only offer and show so much, this program allows us to basically live the life of the Sisters.
When we first arrived, we were all welcomed with open arms and brought back to share in a wonderful meal. After being shown around and completing a few days of orientation, we then are put on a revolving schedule of tasks throughout the week. This allows us to see every aspect of the Home, and not just the exterior part.
Our day begins with Liturgy of the Hours, if we wish, we then assist with the meal, later eating our own in our dining room. After breakfast, we then hurry off to our own separately assigned tasks; these could be assisting in laundry, kitchen, physical therapy, development, etc. Mass is every weekday at 11 a.m., and then lunch is again another meal we assist with. After meals is activities, followed by brief rest, if our schedules allow it, and then Liturgy of the Hours at 5 p.m.
Dinner is served and assisted with by us, and then we finally retire to our home on the Novitiate side of the building for dinner, and free time. Weekends are voluntary work only. Though, last week we helped with the Father’s Day picnic, and that was a huge success! A seemingly endless day, and yet these six weeks are flying by! Through all these tasks, no matter how menial they may seem, by witnessing the charity of the Sisters, comforting the elderly, and carrying out God’s work; we’ve found ourselves drawn closer to God. These weeks have given us the opportunity to shut out the world for a time, and open our hearts to the Lord’s plan for our future.
“What is A Hospitality Intern?”