Poetry Lifts Hearts and Spirits

The Chapel at Cabrini of Westchester was filled last Tuesday as residents, family members, staff and members of the community gathered to hear Sr. Alice Feeley, RDC read from her latest book of poems, “Tracing Thin Places”.

Sr. Alice Feeley is a member of the Sisters of Divine Compassion and is an accomplished poet, educator and pastoral counselor.  However, she is known to most at Cabrini of Westchester as a former member of the Pastoral Care Department where she worked as a nursing home chaplain.  Many were surprised to learn of her talent and were delighted to learn of the opportunity to hear her read her art.

You could hear a pin drop in the chapel as she read to the captivated audience.  Her poems unfolded as she read them outload – slowly and naturally.  Her book “Tracing Thin Places”, is named after the Celtic belief of “thin places” where the veil that separates heaven and earth is lifted.  The book is a collection of her poetry that paints vivid pictures of the immense truth and beauty that surrounds us and dances with the uncertainties and troubles encountered in daily life.

Following the reading, the audience had a chance to speak with Sr. Alice about her work, have her autograph a copy of her book and socialize on the patio where everyone enjoyed a beautiful spring day, refreshments and a light fare.  The air was filled with the joyous sounds of chirping birds and awestruck comments about Sr. Alice’s gift that has been kept hidden from most by her humble nature.

Below is an excerpt from the poem “Thin Places”:

 

Whenever a child’s heart is restored,

there are glimpses of what is true,

sightings of thin places, thresholds of the Spirit’s love.

Someone is ready to be seized by surprise

Wherever the divine is passing by.

“Tracing Thin Spaces” is available for purchase on Amazon or, contact the Pastoral Care Department of Cabrini of Westchester, if you wish to have your book signed by Sr. Alice Feeley.