Community Church Forum: Wings of Love

Sr. Barbara and Domingo

This Sunday, October 21 at 9:15 a.m., Sr. Barbara Seaward will address the Adult Forum at the Garden City Community Church. Sister Barbara and her cockatoo, CieCie, were profiled in an article in the Daily News about "second-hand birds," and in the episode of the NATURE series on PBS. Sister Barbara and her birds have a special relationship with people. Sister Barbara Seaward and her flock of exotic pet birds, minister to the elderly, sick, and disabled.

"Even if it's just a moment in time... the birds bridge the gulf between yesterday and today, reality and illusion," says Sister Barabara.

Sister Barbara Seaward, OP, has ministered to people for years as a registered nurse and Roman Catholic Sister of St. Dominic. Her thirty year nurs-ing career included a public health assignment, cardiac care nursing, and a stint as a school nurse.

She is a member of the Long Island Parrot Society and the Parrot Fanciers Club. These organizations are dedicated to educating the public about proper bird care.

Sister Barbara's ministry fledged after she adopted a handicapped Cockatiel and saw how the elderly nuns in the convent responded to him. She adopted more birds. "I wanted to share their wonderful qualities with others. I've seen them draw people out," Sister Bar-bara smiled. "I know the comfort and joy they bring to the ill. I've watched them bring a smile to the face of a boy with a brain tumor." Sister Barbara continued, "Seniors often remember stories about pets in their past, and the visits are good for the staff as well. They bring out another level of relationship between caregivers and residents."

The Community is invited to attend the forum in the church parlor. Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ, is an Open and Affirming congregation. Worship Services are on Sunday at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., with church school for children and crib room for infants and toddlers at the later service. Garden City Community Church is located at Stewart Avenue and Whitehall Blvd. For more information call 746-1700 or visit our web site at www.gardencitycommunitychurch.org.