Last year, at the PBVM camp for Latinas in Creighton Retreat Center, Mary Ihli purchased a lovely sculpture of “Homeless Jesus” on the park bench. She donated it to the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House (BDHH) in Sioux Falls, SD. Mary also chose a photo of Falls Park in Sioux Falls to accompany the statue because she feels many people find quiet and peace at the Falls. She chose the quote, “Jesus is present in the heart of every person. Today find Christ in another person.” as a caption. Terry McMahon, Buildings Supervisor for the Catholic Diocese, who sponsors the BDHH, created a backdrop for them and mounted it on the wall in the lobby of the Hospitality House. It is displayed in a high traffic area to allow hundreds of guests to enjoy.
Mary Ihli’s giving nature and compassion for those in need is confirmed by her serving as a Cojourner of the Presentation Sisters of Aberdeen for over 20 years. She is committed to doing justice and charity in the spirit of the Gospel. She finds that bond with the Presentation Sisters Community as a Cojourner, Mary said, “This group has not only given me a common bond with those who trust in the Lord, but also a family of believers whose faith is an inspiration to me.”
Mary is hoping the sculpture and Falls Park photo will be an inspiration for the homeless who stay there and bring peace and encouragement to their day.
