A Message of Hope Katrina Efforts, an Inspiring Grace

By: Sister Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, O.Carm., President

The Chicago Deacons of Project Hope have completed their third mision this year to New Orleans. As they continue to rebuild the faith by removing despair, they invite you to follow their efforts through their website: hopesontheway.org. The following letter was received from Sister Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, O.Carm., President of the Congregation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Louisiana. The Carmelite Review is graced by her message.

Sister Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, O.Carm., President

One of the most beautiful Christmas cards I received last year contained this message:

Once again, as on a silent night long ago, We are challenged to live and love with Outrageous Hope! (Kathleen Pruitt, LCWR address)

Perhaps as never before the Sisters of Mount Carmel have been challenged to live and love with outrageous hope. Saint Peter tells us to be always ready to give an account for the hope that lies within us (1 Pt 3,15). In this post- Katrina/Rita era in Louisiana, I want to give an account for the hope that lies within us.

We find hope in God’s promise recorded so long ago by the prophet Jeremiah: “I know well the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for peace, not disaster, reserving a future full of hope.” (Jer 29,11)

We find hope in the generous, creative responses of the Women Religious in the United States and the members of the Carmelite Family across the world. And we find joyful hope in the repeated labors of the deacons from the Chicago area, their wives and friends associated with Project Hope. This coordinated effort is the inspiration of Deacon Sal Lema, Editor-in-Chief of the Carmelite Review and Director of Communications for the Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary.

During their last visit from October 14 to October 21, 2006, these vigorous friends focused their efforts on labors begun on the second floor of our Motherhouse during their June visit. New kitchen cabinets and appliances were installed, tile floors in the kitchen and kitchenette replaced flooring that deteriorated because of the flooding and every bedroom, bathroom, office and the main hall were freshly painted. Additionally, plumbing was inspected and repaired where necessary. Those who were unable to be present physically supported the efforts of Project Hope through their financial gifts. More than $14,000 was raised by the deacons and their friends.

What a lift this has given to all of us and especially to the few sisters who are currently residing at the Motherhouse! Recently I met with those sisters and asked them what gave them the courage to continue to live and to work in such difficult circumstances. Sister Anna Lee, who teaches at Mount Carmel Academy, quickly replied, “When I cross the breezeway at lunch and enter the second floor (the area restored by the members of Project Hope), I feel such a burst of hope! That area has just been transformed!” Sister Alice Abate, who has been coordinating the entire restoration effort at the Motherhouse, responded “The presence of the deacons, their wives and friends gave me such a lift. Working together with them strengthened me.”

Saint Paul reminds us that “hope will not leave us disappointed because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit...” Hope has not left the Sisters of Mount Carmel disappointed because God’s love has been poured out among us through the goodness of all those associated with Project Hope. For them, and for all those who have offered us assistance, we give and offer continued prayers of thanksgiving.