NOLA - Pop Up

By Sister Mary Lou Specha, PBVM

October 15, 2014

In New Orleans, Louisiana, there is always some type of event happening. The locals live between seasons—Football, Carnival (Mardi Gras) and Festival seasons just to name a few. These seasons/events bring happiness, laughter and delight to all who attend.

The Spirit is contagious and is often difficult to contain. The “Nuns on the Bus” captured this spirit as we traveled around the city. Next time the bus comes to town, I will make sure I have some beads to share with Simone so we can toss them from the bus!

Our first stop at the ReBuild Center, a daytime shelter for people experiencing homelessness, celebrates the work of Religious Communities. A marvelous example of collaboration in ACTION! The Presentation Sisters, (Lantern Lights Ministry), The Jesuits, (The Harry Tompson Center) and the Vincentians work together to meet the needs of the many people experiencing homelessness. The center has natural beauty—amidst the concrete and asphalt in the medical district where it is located. Large palm trees and other foliage shade the inviting spaces where one can sit, read, play their guitar or just visit with another. This is where I met Donald.

After briefly introducing myself and sharing some “swag” from my swag bag, I asked if he was a registered voter—oh yes indeed—was his response. The conversation quickly revealed Don’s passion around politics. I was amazed at his knowledge of many issues and realized how my judgments around people experiencing homelessness continued to unfold—I wondered how one gets information on national and local issues when one doesn’t even have a place to call home.

I enjoyed our conversation. I walked away thinking how important it is for all to exercise their voting rights and how we must continue to work toward fair voting rights for all people—including those who do not have a permanent address. After all, Donald is in the 100%!

We had a pop-up stop at Loyola. The thrill of a college campus and the curiosity of young adults always give me great energy. I approached the young people as they hurried through the student center on their way to lunch or class. My opening statement was…My name is Sister Mary Lou and I’m with the “NUNS on the BUS” have you heard of us?

I was surprised how many students looked puzzled and said, “No ma’am.” When I explained why the BUS stopped at Loyola and asked the students to help “get out the vote” many said COOL—ok I’m in! I realized how Institutions of higher education continue to be places where one learns about social issues and the common good—of course, we were on a Jesuit campus!

The day ended with a marvelous lunch at a place dear to my heart, Café Reconcile. When we arrived, the students and staff welcomed us as we stepped off the bus! Café Reconcile is a social enterprise and culinary training program for young people from under-resourced communities. The program engages 18-22 year olds to believe life can be different from the harsh reality of street-living by providing an expanding mindset. Chantel (not her real name),  a young woman in the program, joined us for lunch and all took delight in her presence. Her smile was contagious and her wisdom was beyond her years.

She is nearing the end of her training at the Café and was looking forward to an internship at a local restaurant. The spirit of the program was obvious by the love and care of the staff and others who support the program. “Café Reconcile is a great place and has made a difference in my life,” Chantel shared. She announced, “My grandmother told me yesterday how proud she is of me and I am going to continue to make her proud!” I have no doubt, Chantel. After hearing some of Chantel’s story, we all were proud!

At the end of the day I was filled with excitement and joy—much like coming home from a Mardi Gras parade. I did come home with a full bag—this time my bag wasn’t filled with beads and “throws” from a parade or even “swag.” The stories of the people I met filled my bag and made if overflow. I was proud to be a Nun on the Bus—to join with sisters everywhere proclaiming the Good News! Hurry back to New Orleans, Y’all. I’ll make sure a second line meets you on your next visit!