Homebound Ministry: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Bakersfield

Homebound Ministry – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Bakersfield  

Our Diocese is filled with ministries that bring together the parish community they serve in. One of the ministries is known as Ministry to the Homebound. This ministry brings communion to the sick and homebound – whether it’s in homes, retirement communities or hospitals.  

Colleen Scanlon of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Bakersfield began doing Ministry to the Homebound in 2012 and brought it to her parish in 2015.  

Colleen, who has a special heart for those suffering or vulnerable, believes it is important to provide spiritual help for them and their family through Homebound Ministry. 

“It becomes more than the Eucharist, you become part of the family - their life,” Colleen expresses.  

She started the ministry after not making it home on time for her family member’s death – it is her goal to make sure no one feels abandoned or alone spiritually during difficult times.  

“Supporting families during difficult times is one of the most beautiful experiences in my life, that’s why we do what we do,” Colleen states. 

Colleen recalled a touching moment with a fellow parishioner, whom she was delivering communion to. Colleen had become close friends with this parishioner; they had deep conversations and listened to traditional catholic songs together. One day, her fellow parishioner was in extreme pain and her family called Colleen to come over. With music playing in the background and hands together, the look of pain on this parishioner’s face went away and she became peaceful before passing away. 

Colleen emphasized that Ministry to the Homebound matters to the person and their family – especially spiritual support. 

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The Ministry to the Homebound at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton is very active with around 40 – 60 volunteers in the team. It is a priority to get to know the person in need of communion and match them with a minister who can connect with them on a personal and spiritual level.  

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