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Grounded in Faith
B
on Secours Associate Kyle Benham strives
to be a better active listener and more
aware of the needs of others. “It’s easy to
get caught up in our daily lives, rushing
around and losing focus of those around us,”
he says. “Being an associate keeps me grounded in my faith
Kyle with Sr. Mary Cabrini.
during those challenging times.”
Kyle is a learning technology consultant for the Bon
When the world was turned upside down during the Secours Mercy Health Culture and Learning department
Living Out the Legacy of Compassion pandemic, Kyle and other associates, along with members in Richmond, Virginia. His journey as an associate began
of different faith-based groups across the ministry, came in the summer of 2017 when Robin Ratchford, who was
together over Zoom on a weekly basis to pray and talk. the regional chief information officer for Bon Secours
Sr. Fran Gorsuch was a part of Kyle’s prayer group along Mercy Health at the time, extended an open invitation
with two Bon Secours Young Adults. Despite the wide to learn more about the ministry. “After a weekend of
range in age, the conversation flowed. Kyle says,
‘‘ I feel blessed to have had these experiences. an associate,” says Kyle. “I immediately felt welcomed
prayer and discernment, I felt a strong calling to become
and part of a loving, faith-filled community.”
I am continuously inspired by the sisters to
follow their lead and be good help through
actions and attitudes that promote healing, Robin was Kyle’s mentor throughout his formation
process. “He carefully guided me and was always available
compassion and liberation.”
to answer my questions,” says Kyle. “One day he took
a painting off the wall in his office and gave it to me.
Kyle (left) prays with his family during the pandemic.
It was a beautiful watercolor of
Ireland’s coastline painted by
Sr. Roselle. Robin said he wanted
me to have it, as we all play an
important role in carrying on the
sisters’ legacy. Today, Sr. Roselle’s
painting is proudly displayed in
my office, and it is an honor to
share her artistic work with others
while telling the story of Robin’s
selfless gesture.”
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