David Kohut at St. Margaret Hall
During a recent Mass at St. Margaret Hall (SMH), David Kohut’s powerful voice led those gathered in singing “Come Holy Ghost,” the opening hymn. Louis Bartko presided at the June 29 liturgy on the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, while Bert Heise, senior of SJB Province by profession, sat near the front of the chapel, witnessing the friars’ faith and presence at the retirement facility.
In his inspiring homily that morning, Louis noted the “faithful witness of Peter and Paul,” and their efforts to “do their best to spread the faith. Let us be like them,” he told Mass attendees.
Fr. Louis celebrates Mass at St. Margaret Hall
After the liturgy, Bert was on hand to greet his fellow residents, SMH staff and visitors, saying, “God bless you, each and every one of you.”
Many friars have received excellent care at SMH over the years, and Bert expressed his gratitude. “This place is just super,” he said. “They’re so good to us here. I love the camaraderie among the sisters (Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm), residents and staff. It’s a special, holy place.”
Bert Heise at St. Margaret Hall
The friars are dedicated to the ministry of prayer and presence. Bert has called SMH home since 2010. On any given day, he can be found visiting residents, delivering candy to them, and, of course, praying for them and the staff.
David shares his talents at every Mass and spoke of how meaningful it is to come together with the SMH community around him to thank and praise God. “When you sing, the Spirit is going up. That’s the beautiful thing about it,” he said.