I have worked for St. Joseph Hospital, Orange, for the past 21 years.  Throughout that time, the Sisters Philosophy of Caring has, both for their patients and their employees, has been exemplified in every area.  The Sisters and the hospital administration are always accessible and responsive to the needs of their employees.  This dedication to their employees is exhibited in the longevity of the hospital staff.

Caroline Price, RNC, BSN
St. Joseph Hospital of Orange

Sister Martha Ann Fitzpatrick has provided kind guidance and oversight to Camino Health Center since its sponsorship by Mission Hospital in 1996.  When I was hired at the health center I remember Sister asking me if I thought I could make at least a one year commitment – that was 12 years ago!

Sister Martha Ann has influenced my life in many ways.  Most importantly, she helped me to broaden my view of justice.  The bread does not always have to be sliced equally . . . take what you need, give what you can...

Debra Drew
Executive Director
Camino Health Clinic

In December 2006, I interviewed for employment at St. Jude Medical Center. The moment I stepped into the lobby, I sensed a positive energy – and the genuine warmth of employees. I had awareness that there was something special about the institution.  During the past two years, there has been repeated confirmation of my initial impression.

As a staff Chaplain, I have the privilege of working with colleagues whose commitment is a continual source of inspiration to me.  Everyday, I observe patients and their families receiving exemplary and compassionate care. When visiting with patients, they often reminisce about the comfort that the Sisters brought them in the past and express sadness that they are no longer present. With conviction, I am able share with them that although the Sisters are not physically present - their vision, spirit and values are an integral part of the health care ministry that has and will continue.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to minister within the St. Joseph Health System and to advance the healing mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.

Bill Boylan
St. Jude Medical Center

I was an employee at St. Joseph Hospital for 4.5 years and have been at St. Jude Medical Center for the past 7 years.  I was drawn to the St. Joseph Health System hospitals because of the mission and values that are the cornerstone of the ministry.  Most employees are here for more than a paycheck, they are here because they want to be a part of something important, to make a difference.  

The open communication and responsiveness of our leadership team allows us to do what we do best every day.  When there is a challenge we talk about it and work through it as a team.  When there is an accomplishment, we celebrate as a team.  The Sisters ensure that not only wages and benefits are competitive, but that we are recognized in other ways for our commitment and dedication. 

We have a wonderful celebration in December where members of the leadership team serve us.  During National Hospital week, events are scheduled each day including a picnic and in September we have an employee barbeque. I wonder why anyone would want to spend time and energy trying to fix something that isn’t broken.

Toni Chitty, MHA
Director, Volunteer Services
St. Jude Medical Center

“After working with and for Sr. Ann for nearly 12 years, what stands out for me is her compassion linked with her toughness. One experience:

A homeless family had been served in the ED, and then the cafeteria, and as evening wore on their needs started to appear endless. It was late, very cold outside, and raining.  This family - mother, father, two kids - had had their tent and campsite destroyed by weather and the police, and were heading out to… where? They didn’t know. We made an effort to get them in a motel we had arrangements with, but it was closed. We had arrangements with no other motel, though one (a fairly expensive one) was willing to take them but only if we guaranteed them against any damages.

We had to call the Administrator on Duty.

Sr. Ann came over to the hospital to sort out the challenges and options. In the end, with her leadership and determination, we made necessary arrangements. Along the way, Sr. Ann (and others on duty) were immensely kind to this couple who were…well, not completely easy to be kind to. Sr. Ann’s focus on compassion and problem solving were unwavering.

After the couple left in a cab, she spoke of the Holy Family seeking shelter.  I was impressed, especially as I was just then glad they were on their way so I could go home, my own compassion had been exhausted at that hour by the difficulty of the process, and of the people; I was recalled by her comment to the spiritual depths of compassion.  And then she added, “It also would have made sense to call the police.”  She certainly hadn’t missed the irresponsibility and madness of the whole situation, but had simply made a choice to serve God in these people in spite of the hour, the difficulties and the (not unreasonable) judgments.

Sr. Ann’s work has clearly been a ministry, and has clarified the nature of ministry. We are fortunate to have seen her in action, and to have her as a role model.”

Ken Meece
Director of Spiritual Health Services
St. Joseph Hospital of Eureka

In 1996 I walked into Camino Health Center to the sound of Spanish and laughter.  Sister Marian Schubert was a nurse practitioner at the clinic and her influence was everywhere.  As a new employee, unfamiliar with Catholicism, she explained many new concepts to me. 

Over the years we have remained good friends and still have involved discussions about religion, spirituality and health care.  Mostly though we still laugh...

Debra Drew
Executive Director
Camino Health Clinic

Being invited to participate in Mission and Mentoring was a great privilege for me.  I felt it came to me at the right time in my life.  During the experience, I began to truly feel a part of the Mission of the sisters.  It brought around in full circle, without a doubt, what I am here for.  Each moment, each interaction, since Mission and Mentoring is more fulfilling.  I am forever thank-full for the experience and knowledge.

Lydia Oldfield
St. Mary Medical Center

What the Sisters and their ministry mean to me in my day to day work.

I realize more than ever before that, although we are all different, we are all of us, each of us, children of God.  My spirituality has a focal clarity that it didn’t have before.  A clarity that emphasizes the importance of relationships, the desire to help others, and love, combined with appreciation of all that there is in our world.

My daily work has new meaning. 

I recognize that there are difficult decisions to make and challenges to overcome, but now I have more strength to work with others to accomplish important goals that will help our community and each other.

Finally I have a renewed desire to search for future greatness for our Hospital.  Greatness that can be achieved.  Greatness that continues to heal all that we touch.

Robert Elliott
St. Mary Medical Center

Working at St. Mary Medical Center (SMMC) is like working with family.

The Sisters and Brothers on campus serve as mentors to all of us.

Their humble commitment to do what is right for the vulnerable is infectious regardless of your religious affiliation.

It is a place where you know you are fulfilling your calling.
Spirituality is welcomed and encouraged.
Diversity is celebrated at St. Mary Medical Center.

Through Employee retreats, mission and mentoring and other numerous programs, employees are given opportunities to develop from within.

Employees are encouraged to make each human contact ( with patients, physicians, coworkers or co ministers and family members)  interaction a “sacred” one resulting with both participants at the end of the interaction have a warmth in their heart knowing they did the right thing.

At SMMC the focus is not only at the sick patients we care for in our four walls but also the daily needs of the high desert community.  SMMC leaders participate in numerous community services in addition to their daily work.

Employees are encouraged to participate and express their concerns freely without fear of retaliation.

Employees from day one at orientation have a chance to understand the heritage, mission vision and core values of SMMC. Moreover on a daily basis employees are encouraged to respect, understand, and live the core values as they perform their duties.

Since the Core Values ( Service, Dignity, Excellence, Justice and Hospitality) are based on universal truth they appeal to everyone regardless of culture, race, sex, religion etc….

As a faith based organization at SJHS we refer to each hospital in the system as a ministry and to all who work in it as co-ministers.

Mesrak Gessesse
St. Mary Medical Center employee - 14 years

Dear Sisters of St. Joseph,

Without you, our organization would be nothing. Your legacy is inspirational and your dedication is phenomenal.  I am truly grateful to you for providing the St. Joseph Hospital family with an ethical, spiritual and caring environment and opportunity to serve others and walk with God.

In love, support and prayer,
Jen

Jen Duerksen
St. Joseph Hospital

Working for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange assures me that the head policy setter where I work is my creator.  I am grateful the Sisters and the Mission and Mentoring graduates find countless ways throughout my day to remind me of that. 

Holly Sweeney
Laboratory Services
St. Mary Medical Center

Dear Sisters,

 Thank you for all the years of your ministry of caring for patients, their families and the community! Your mission and values represent how we as Christians should minister to others all through our life. As an employee for many years I have been privileged to serve patients, families and staff caring for their body, mind and spirit.

Thank you again for representing and showing us what Jesus would have us do!
God Bless Each of You!

Linda Concepcion RN, CTR
St. Joseph Hospital

From my very first day as an employee of Mission Hospital, my life has taken a new purpose.  Everyday I look forward to servicing my community.

I have been the coordinator of an after school program for children that attend the local elementary schools in the city of San Juan Capistrano for 4 years. I help children manage their school work and provide them with homework assistance and support their learning in any way I can. I also coach their parents on how to be involved in their children’s education. The children and parents I work with impact my life daily, and I feel blessed to have such a rewarding job.

Virginia Sergi
C.H.E.C. Family Resource Center
Mission Hospital

Mission Hospital is a great place to work for so many reasons: teamwork, sense of purpose, helping others, and opportunities for both professional and personal growth and development. The core values of our ministry: Dignity, Service, Excellence, and Justice are the foundation of our work. My colleagues live these values daily and enrich the lives of their coworkers and community through them.

The dedication and work of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange is humbling and I never cease to be moved by the difficult and courageous beginnings of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.

It is an honor and privilege to be a member of this community and to share in the healing ministry of the Sisters of  St. Joseph of Orange.

Julie Malvey
Mission Hospital

Nursing is my calling and it is nice to have a new way to frame what I do as a sacred encounter, introduced by my facility 2 years ago, because I like to make every interaction with patients and staff as something special blessed by the holy spirit.

Lara Frederick
St. Mary Medical Center

One of the best hospials ever! I was blessed to delivered my twin girls four years ago and the staff was and still is phenominal as I just delivered once again! From the moment you walk in the door you are greated as an individual not a patient.  I felt as if I was at home during my hospital stay.

Susan Landa
Patient of St. Joseph Hospital Orange

I consider it a honor to work for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange and share in the ministry of healing those in need. God blesses us all with the abilities to make a difference in the lives of patients and families.

The St. Joseph Health System hospitals provide us with a place to heal and care for others and allow us to live the core values. As employees, we have a voice in creating a workplace that is enriched by all who work at our hospitals. Together -- we represent the ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange -- and it is an incredible privilege to be part of Mission Hospital and the St. Joseph Health System.

Mary Kay Bader
Mission Hospital

Dear Sisters,

When I came to work at this Hospital 19 years ago, I always felt comfort knowing that this Hospital was founded on the women that loved God and lived their lives according to his word.  I have felt that same comfort all of these years through all of the changes, the expansion and the increase of business it has always to me remained a haven of hope for those that are ill and hurting.  I have loved seeing the Sisters throughout the Hospital still working or volunteering their time.  I love the legacy of the Sister Frances Dunn building where I work from the rich architecture to the pictures of the first groundbreaking for this building. 

When I went to the groundbreaking ceremony for the PCC, I put some of the dirt that had been blessed in a jar along with my little shovel and wrote on it for my grandsons, hoping that someday they will know how much I have love my hospital and the people that work here and what it stands for.  I hope you all always know that there are many more employees that love this Hospital and the Sisters that founded it then there are that would have negative things to say. 

Thank you for founding this beautiful hospital and making sure all of our future generations have the Healthcare they need for the future years.

Susie Slayton
St. Joseph Hospital Orange

I have never before worked for a group of women who are so deeply and sincerely dedicated to making the world a better place.

Burnie Dunlap
St. Jude Medical Center