What a great night I had Friday, October 1, 2021, with former colleagues from New Hope Manor, Barryville, NY. The organization was honored for 50 years of community service in helping women recover their lives from addiction. The evening was hosted by the Friars of the Atonement, Garrison, NY; the event was their annual Sharing Hope Celebration Dinner held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City, NY.
My sister, Sr. Maureen Conway, and I worked for New Hope Manor for 40 years and 35 years, respectively. We were humbled to see how the seeds we planted years ago are still being cultivated by an outstanding staff who probably would never realize that they were carrying on the legacy of the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill.
This celebration brought back memories of our time working with vulnerable women and the staff at New Hope Manor. My sister and I lived at New Hope Manor, where we worked as counselors, teachers and housemothers, making the manor feel like home. Holidays at the treatment center were made to feel especially warm and family like because we knew many of the women had come from backgrounds where holidays were a sad and stressful time of year. We helped the women establish routines, responsibilities and skills to build up their self-esteem and dignity so when they went back out into the world, they would be productive members of their communities. My sister and I knew of many women who completed this program and went on to lead professional lives in the helping industries - some have become doctors, nurses, counselors and social workers.
We were so inspired to hear how the staff continue with compassion and vigilance, transforming lives! Well done, New Hope Manor; we celebrate this honor! May many more women be able to regain their lives through your compassionate care.
Please pray for the staff and women of this great program.
- Sister Patricia Conway
Sister Patricia is a member of the Holistic Health and Wellness Team at Dominican Convent in Sparkill.
