During this year’s Deacon Plunge, I went on deliveries with diaconal candidates Tim Booker from Abington and Jim Kearney from Wrentham along with Marina Fagone, a senior at Ursuline Academy.

Tim, Jim, Marina and I had the privilege of serving Annette, a 50-year old grandmother who lives alone in Brockton. Unbelievably, Annette had been without a home of her own for 6 years. During that time, she moved frequently between shelters and the couches of family and friends.

Annette was understandably excited for her delivery and she met us on the front porch. After five decades on this earth, she owned only two things: a TV which was a gift from her father and a living room set from her deceased mother’s home.

Annette proudly showed us her beautiful, spacious but empty apartment. As we passed through the kitchen, she looked out the window and said with a smile, “I’ve never had a yard like this. When I wake up in the morning, I hear the birds sing now… not sirens all the time.”

Tim, Jim, Marina and I began moving in the furniture. Annette wouldn’t just watch, though. She insisted on helping us carry her new things: a bed, dresser, nightstand, refrigerator, kitchen table and chairs, dishes, pots, pans, sheets, towels and blankets. Everything she needed to make her empty apartment a home.

As we worked together, we learned more about Annette’s life: she has a sister who lives in Alaska, a daughter and grandson in Everett, and a son graduating from Penn State. Tragically, one of her sons had been murdered when he was just 24. His widow and daughter live in Arkansas.

Life had been hard for Annette. We were so impressed by her joy, optimism and resiliency despite all she had endured.

At the end our delivery, Annette graciously thanked us but we told her, “The privilege is ours.” We presented her with the crucifix and our message, “We’re just the delivery people, Annette. This is the man who sent you the furniture.”

She flashed her beautiful smile and said, “I’ll be putting it right up on the wall.”