My name is Sister Máire Sullivan. I am a Sister of the Presentation and the Director of The Lantern Center for Hospitality and Education on Folsom Street. We offer classes in English, Computer and Citizenship and we offer welcome and hospitality to all who come to study or to visit.
In 1994, after years of teaching and parish ministry, I began to volunteer at Good Samaritan Family Resource Center. When I began to teach at Good Sam, we operated out of a storefront on 24th Street between Bryant and Florida Streets. The space was small and crowded but we had many happy times in the old building. Many friendships were formed there which continue today.
In 1997 we moved to the beautiful new building on Potrero Avenue. We hardly knew what to do with all the space. In time, however, new needs, new programs and many activities filled the building. Good Samaritan continued to use their resources to meet the needs of the immigrant community.
In 1999, in collaboration with Good Samaritan, the Presentation Sisters began the Tuesday Day Laborer breakfast program. This program continues to this day. About two hundred men are served coffee and sweet rolls every Tuesday morning from 6:00 AM until 7:00 AM.
In 2006 our community began a new ministry – The Lantern. It has been my privilege to be a part of it. I am very grateful for my years at Good Sam and all who helped me to take on this new role. My connection with Good Samaritan continues to be strong and that will continue as together we minister to the immigrant community into the future.
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When I was new in town seeking help, I was lucky to find Good Samaritan. I got professional guidance and services from the staff. During my many visits here, I saw that the staff offered many useful resources and services to the immigrant community and treated everyone with compassion and respect. It is good to know that we can count on Good Samaritan when we are in need of a helping hand.
