Center for Ministry Formation

blessed to be able to help

Editor’s preface: In the ministry of Jesus, the Sermon on the Mount prescribes an ethic of selflessness and generosity in all our encounters with others (see Matthew’s gospel, chapters 5-7). Our ministry’s value of stewardship helps us to realize and to sustain this very same ethic for the sake of the patients and communities we have the privilege of serving. Yet in so doing we often find that we ourselves are transformed in the process. In addition to bringing “good help” to the vulnerable, we are the ones who are “blessed” simply by being able to help. The following story is a testament to such transformation. Whether meeting the needs of a stranger or providing for her family and the next generations, this long-time Richmond associate obviously reflects a gospel vision of stewardship anchored in selflessness and generosity leading to happiness.

Receiving a Core Culture Award brought Cheryl Briggs to tears. But what the Supply Chain tech did for a patient at Richmond Community Hospital could move others to tears as well.

“There was a Behavioral Health patient being discharged. He did not have a coat and it was very cold that day,” she recounted. “The only thing I could think of was ‘Give him your coat.’ And that is what I did.”

“He was so happy, and it made me happy as well,” Cheryl continues. “I felt blessed to be able to help this person in his time of need.”

An 18-year Bon Secours associate, Cheryl’s also happy to have a job “where you enjoy coming to work with a smile.” She explains, “I'm always in contact with people I can help on a daily basis.” She credits her smile, heart, and commitment for “making sure the people have what they need and helping anyone in need.”

Her efforts continue at home. “I am a family-orientated individual and all that I do is for my kids and grandchildren,” she said. “I continue to pray for guidance to continue to give all I have to those who are in need. That is my goal, and it goes along with my personality.”