Caring for housebound women is one of the hundreds of ways in which Medical Mission Sisters around the world try to be a healing presence to those in need today.

"Giving and receiving love is an important healing power," says Sister Ann Louise Smith of her ministry: caring for housebound women in the Philadelphia area. She began this work in 1979, after serving for more than a decade in Pakistan and Venezuela. She is certified as a Home Health Aide.

"My work consists of personal care for housebound women, and simple household duties like laundry, shopping, and some cleaning. One need of the women was hair care, and I took a course in cosmetology and received my license in 1988." Sister Ann Louise has also been able to use her cosmetology training to care for some of our own Sisters, especially the elderly and the sick.

"I am especially concerned for those who live alone, having no one to aid or support them," she explains. "My work has allowed many women to remain in their own homes or apartments."

Sister Ann Louise feels that, by her presence, she is helping the elderly to accept their lives and what is happening to them physically. "I have seen so many beautiful things," she reflects. "When you hear someone say, 'Sister, since you have been coming here there is change in my life. I feel so much better.' This makes me stop and think … through these ordinary things, the Lord Jesus is speaking to them."

"It is in giving that I have received so very much. All these women whose lives have touched mine have helped me to grow more deeply in my own spiritual life," she shares. "Meeting the needs of people, being of service, giving support, caring, and listening are all part of our call to healing mission."

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