Carmen Guzman and Chris Greer are dedicated visitors to the Winslow Campus of Care. For many years the two devout Catholics have gone each week to provide communion for those elderly residents unable to attend church. Both Guzman and Greer consider the work they do a privilege, but it’s apparent that what they receive in return has had a tremendous impact upon their lives.
With tears in his eyes Greer spoke of God’s love for each of those at the center, and how both he and Guzman are simply conduits for that love. “I get lots of hugs,” said Guzman with a smile. “When I first began coming I’d go home and cry over how disabled they are. But now I see how they’ve learned so much patience, perseverance and suffering. You have to admire them for that.”
Greer nodded, adding, “We enjoy listening to them, every one has a story to tell.” Several residents were introduced, including Max Chee, who talked of working for the Fred Harvey chain of hotels when he was a young man, Mary McCabe, who was once a teacher of the Navajo language, and Annie Taliman, who had been a weaver and still carries with her a small cloth pouch containing a sample of her weaving.
When Celeste Edgmon, activities coordinator for the facility, stated that the two volunteers were an important part of the residents’ week, and that if for some reason one can’t come, it does not go unnoticed, Greer was quick to point out that those working at the center provide a tremendous service to their elderly charges. “We see all they do, and the staff is very kind and loving,” stated Greer.
The facility itself is adorned with Native American art and décor. There are even small sheep statues in the courtyard, something very familiar to those who grew up on the reservations. “We’re glad we can offer our residents a sense of tradition and culture. It eases their minds and stress,” said Edgmon.
Many of the residents are Native American and speak little or no English, but that barrier is quickly overcome when they see the cross Guzman wears around her neck and know she’s someone who brings comfort.
As the two continue to provide what Greer called “spiritual food for their heavenly journey,” they say that the rewards they have received in serving God have far outweighed any effort they make. Guzman summed it up by saying that they have an agreement with the residents that helps them all along life’s sometimes difficult journey: “I tell them you pray for us and we’ll pray for you, and that works out well for all of u
