I am Ida María, a Religious, a Handmaid of Jesus Christ and Charity, and identify with the charism of hospitality that we share with the Brothers of St John of God because they unite us by the same way of feeling, and of being brothers and sisters to those who suffer and are by our side.

Every time I enter the house of a sick person I always say to myself, “Remember that you are standing on hallowed ground, and here is the Lord.” And the first thing I do is to smile and greet them affectionately, looking into their eyes, drawing close and calling them respectfully by their name. I know that this simple language of love can dispel the fear, anxiety and powerlessness which causes them suffering for an instant.

Every day I realise that feeling welcomed and listened to is the best medicine. When I approach a suffering brother or sister I am not the same person, and my heart expands and is transformed. This is when I recognise that my life has a meaning by giving myself to serving others, particularly looking at the small details.

I feel happy to be able to approach them, and allow God to soothe their pain a little.  I am fortunate that I have the gift of faith and have felt called to belong to this Religious family and to be able to share my life with those whom God places on my path.