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December 20, 2006

Photo/Bishop says Mass at Zambarano; greets Frank

Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, bishop of Providence gives the homily at Zambarano hospital.
Journal photo / Mary Murphy

BURRILLVILLE -- With Advent winding down and Christmas less than a week away, the Most Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, Bishop of Providence, this afternoon visited Zambarano Hospital to say Mass and meet patients at the chronic-disease facility. It was the first time a bishop had visited in nearly 15 years.

In his homily, Bishop Tobin reflected on the lessons of ``patience and trust'' exemplified by many of Zambarano's patients, some of whom have been hospitalized for decades.

The bishop said he had new appreciation for these qualities after his own recent hospitalization for treatement of lower back pain. After a week in Our Lady of Fatima Hospital in North Providence, the bishop has resumed most of his normal activities.

Fllowing Mass for about 100 patients, relatives, family and staff in the Zambarano chapel, Bishop Tobin greeted the hospital community during a reception in the auditorium, decorated for the holiday. He posed for photographs, chatted, and gave his blessing to all who desired. He met Frank Beazley, longtime hospital resident and patient advocate, and subject of the recent Journal series, The Growing Season.

``You're obviously the star attraction!'' the bishop said. Beazley presented the bishop with a gift from Patients For Progress, the advocacy group that he chairs.

Posted by Peter Phipps  at 4:15 PM | Permalink

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