Dan Emerson - CMC Missioner
I was missioned to the Mother Cabrini Shrine in Colorado and worked as a gardener and handyman. The Shrine needed practical attention and my work was met with appreciation from many of the sisters, staff members and volunteers. I felt important and loved throughout my two years with CMC. Young people came to the Shrine, sent by the local courts for community service. Unexpectedly, I became a "big brother" to those kids who probably had little or no experience with a positive role model.
Maybe some will remember me encouraging them to lead an honest and good life with Jesus; I know I'll remember them for years to come. I played piano one hour a week at a local nursing home, too. It gave me great joy to watch the expressions on the residents' faces change from sadness and burden to happiness as they listened to the music. Five sisters, many wonderful staff members, generous volunteers and I formed a community. I've been blessed with a deeper prayer life and I'm more aware of the gifts God gave me to share with others.