Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care

I saw a painting featuring St. Felix, Blessed Mary Angela, some Felician Sisters, plus Mary and Jesus. In the painting, found in a motherhouse of the Felician Sisters, there are rosary beads that have images of Blessed Angela serving others.  The creative portrayal of these snapshots of service to others remind us that caring for the dignity of others is not just a single act. It is a continual process, changing based on the needs of those around us.

Catholic Social Teaching tells us that we are called to uphold the Life and Dignity of the Human Person. This principle is the foundation for all the social teaching principles. Every person is precious and must be treated as a perfect creation of God. The measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person. The images in the painting demonstrate the focus on enhancing the dignity of those in need.  

When I speak to new employees about the Core Values at Felician Village, I’m always so pleased at how clearly they understand and follow each value, but especially Respect for Human Dignity. They offer examples of treating people as people, not just a job. They focus on helping people, making eye contact, learning people’s names, and encouraging each other. Sometimes I get to hear a story of something that happened recently with a resident or a co-worker to highlight the beauty of this value.

Dignity tells us that every human being has inherent value. They deserve respect and must be treated ethically. Their dignity is not something they have to earn. Dignity means that every person has rights and is worthy of care, honor, and respect.

Blessed Mary Angela, the Foundress of the Felician Sisters, lived this concept in the core of her being. Ensuring that others were treated with the dignity that all deserve was the basis of her ministry. Her care was not limited to certain groups. The Felician Sisters who came to North America continued in her ways, offering care to everyone.

Blessed Angela: “Help all without discrimination, friend and foe alike. Everyone is our neighbor.”