Our great friends, Ed and Beth Brennan insisted that we visit them at Misericordia House when we were in the Chicago Area. On our return from California Ed picked us up at O'Hare, waiting an extra two hours for our delayed flight, which arrived around midnight.

Ed and I were in the Seminary together 47 years ago. We got reacquainted this last summer at the Strawberry Island meeting. See Strawberry Island report.

Misericordia House is a home for disabled adults operated by the Chicago Catholic Archdiocese.  It is a very large institution for its mission and has broad community support. There are around 450 residents and 700 staff.

Marion was a high school Special Ed teacher before her retirement.  She often worried what the future would be for her students. Visiting Mesericordia was an eye-opener for her.  She was able to see the facilities, meet the staff, and see the quality of care being given AND the quality of life being attained. She was happy with everything she saw.

Ed Brennan was our tour guide.  He and Beth came to Misericordia over 12 years ago as "House Parents". << This is the house where they lived. They shared a house with 8 residents, and assisted them as needed.  Today their jobs are mainly training and motivating new members the staff.  Plus starting new homes in the community.

Many of the disabled have jobs in the community, others are employed at the home in the greenhouse, the restaraunt, the bakery, or in one of the job centers which provide contract support to industry.  Art Work created here is sold in the Gift Shop. >>>>> The message is clear. All are capable of productive work. Work enhances ones feeling of worth.  All at Misericordia have the goal of providing a happier and more meaningful life for the residents.  It's Working!

Thanks, Ed and Beth, for a great adventure on our tour.  You introduced us to some wonderful and very happy people.