During the first week of this new year, Camp Maria Retreat Center, a ministry of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Southern Maryland, became a place of respite and warmth for those who are experiencing homelessness. They do so in collaboration with a program known as WARM – Wrapping Arms Around Many. Each evening volunteers from several local parishes came to Camp Maria to welcome, prepare meals, and share conversation and activities with men and women who may otherwise be sleeping out in the cold.

This is the seventh year that Ann Kovalcik, SCNA and Director of Camp Maria, has coordinated the WARM program at Camp Maria during the holiday season. Every evening before the thirteen guests arrived, Ann offered a prayer over each bed asking that God’s grace and blessing be on this place and upon each person… may nothing but goodness come from this place.

This year Sister Chris Kunze was able to be present and help with the program. A special part of her time with the guests was offering foot care to those who desired a foot soak, massage, and nail trimming. She says, “It is a profound privilege to be here and encounter such beautiful people in both the guests and volunteers. What a blessing to end one year and begin another in this sacred way.”

The guests have now moved to another location and other local churches/organizations will continue to provide a place for unhoused persons in St. Mary’s County during the cold months. Together let us continue to pray for all in our world who do not have a warm, dry, and safe place to call home.

Source & photos: https://nazareth.org/