Sister Beatrice lives the mission of the Congregation at the peripheries, whether near or far.
Over the last few years, she has visited the border between the United States and Mexico to collaborate with organizations that help immigrants. In December of 2022, during her three-week visit to a large immigrant reception centre in Texas, she led prayers, helped serve meals, and distributed clothing. She also had conversations with the men, women and children, listening to their stories of treacherous and high-risk travels from their homeland to the United States. They declared their faith and trust in God and Mother-Mary to protect them and their deep gratitude for God’s love and care.
Upon returning to West Haven, Connecticut, she wanted to share her experience at the border with those of her parish. Parishioners who listened with open hearts and a desire to support their brothers and sisters responded by forming the WELCOME Commission, Comision de Bienvenida. They decided that they would collect clothes, furniture, and kitchen items. Having no other place to distribute these items, the 2 convent garages became the center. Members volunteered at the local food bank. In 6 months they have met 100 families and invited them to the garage-center which is open for 4 hours every Sunday. There is a steady flow of parishioners donating items and newly-arrived immigrants receiving them.
God leads us throughout our lives and one step takes us to the next. Sister Beatrice’s many years on mission in Guatemala and her fluency in Spanish have prepared her for this new ministry.