Benches Dedicated in Sacred Heart Garden in memory of Sr. Camlle Solis. DW and Jean O’Connell

After a Mass dedicated to Sr. Camille Solis, DW, and Jean O'Connell, Rev. Anthony Iaconis, Pastor of the Church of St. Mary, East Islip, NY, performed a blessing of the bench dedicated in their names in the parish's Sacred Heart Garden. Sr. Camille and Jean worked side by side for many years in St. Mary's Parish Outreach program.

In preparing the Mass, Fr. Anthony said, "I thought ... what better Gospel reading could we have than to recognize the needs of the poor, which Camille and Jean did so well. And in the first reading, we're called to hear the word of God and live by it. And take it into our hearts and truly live it. And that's what our season of Lent helps us do better. ... Today, we talk about almsgiving. As we honor Sister Camille and Jean. For the good works that they did on behalf of those who are suffering and on our behalf for the parish family. We give thanks for their ministry through their time and their talents.

And so today, let us recognize that we are people of hope. Hope in the Lord. That we are called to live in God's will and his ways so that we too, can go out into the world to proclaim the good news by how we worship our God, love our God, and serve our neighbor."

After Mass was concluded, parishioners gathered outside in Sacred Heart Garden, where Delegation Leader Sr. Catherine Sheehan, DW, thanked the family and friends of Sr. Camille and Jean. She said, "I would like to thank Fr. Anthony, Rocky Nevelino, and the parishioners of St. Mary's for remembering and honoring Sr. Camille and Jean by dedicating these benches.

I was thinking a bench is an exceptionally good symbol when recalling all the times Sr. Camille and Jean sat and listened with compassion and dedication to the mission of pastoral outreach to the poor and vulnerable in our community – in fact, to all who needed a listening ear … clients and volunteers alike.

In acknowledging Sr. Camille and Jean today, let us all go forth remembering the many blessings we have received with a sense of giving to those in need."

Jean O'Connell's daughter, Keri O'Connell, added, "The work that Sr. Camille and my mother did gave the people a place where they could come and feel at home. And so, a bench is a perfect symbol and a place where they can come and take a rest from their daily troubles and sorrows or joys or whatever the bench will hold. .. I am so grateful for today, thank you for this great honor"

The beautiful bench built by Eagle Scout Nicholas Lindstrom (Troop 327) is unique in design, consisting of two benches connected by a middle armrest. On each bench is a memorial plaque for Sr. Camille and Jean, who are once again joined in the mission of making people comfortable.