This week, we were delighted to welcome back Sister Lena Deevy LSA, who was formerly IIIC’s Executive Director, and her two friends from Ireland, Eileen Fleming and Frank Hall, who are volunteers on the Greek island of Chios. Lena, Eileen and Frank are part of a Shore Response Team (CESRT) who welcome refugees coming to shore and provide emergency shelter, food, water and clothing. Over the past 2 years they have expanded their work to teach English and opened a warehouse.
Lena is in Boston to raise funds for supplies and teaching materials.
Lena’s visit reminds us that we are one interdependent global family, all trying to bring about a peaceful and caring world. It was really inspiring to hear their stories of hope, courage and community – in spite of the awful tragedies that the refugees have endured and the wretched conditions they are living in while waiting to be moved onto a host country.
Professor Ervin Staub of UMass Amherst says “people become brave by doing brave acts. People become compassionate by doing compassionate acts. People become good citizens by engaging in acts of good citizenship.” If there was ever a time we need bravery, compassion and global citizenship, it is today!
You can support Lena’s work in Greece here.
