Friar trains as CNA to serve others

Everyone’s journey is different, alternately filled with bumps or smooth spots. What makes the journey special, joyful, even, is the inspiration provided by others who support and pray for us along the way.  

Br. Edgar Alberto, OFM, can attest to this as he reflects on his journey of faith, prepares for solemn profession in August and looks to the future being of service to his fellow friars and others in need of compassion and care. He completed training as a certified nursing assistant at Gateway Technical College in December and has passed the knowledge and clinical skills portions of the examination for CNA licensure in Wisconsin in late March.  

It was quite a significant accomplishment for the young friar.  

“I have dyslexia, so school has always been a challenge for me,” acknowledged Br. Edgar, who currently resides at Queen of Peace Friary in Burlington, Wisconsin. “The friars have been incredibly supportive. They said, ‘You can do it!” and I could because they trusted in me. It’s amazing how people can lift you up with their words.”  

A warm welcome 

Of course, there is more to Br. Edgar’s story. Before coming to the United States, he spent a year serving as a missionary with the Apostoles de la Palabra (Apostles of the Word) in his native El Salvador. At 19, his father sent him to the United States, with the understanding that he would pay his son’s expenses for a year as he discovered a new culture and opportunities. Before long, Br. Edgar became a parishioner at Immaculate Conception Parish in Durham, North Carolina, where he became involved in young adult ministry and served as a weekend lector. The friar community at IC warmly welcomed Br. Edgar and encouraged him to discern his lifelong interest in religious life on a deeper level.  

A year of service at Philadelphia’s St. Francis Inn through Franciscan Volunteer Ministry further affirmed Br. Edgar’s call and led to his application to the postulancy.  

“I realized I want to give my life in this particular way: to serve others, to treat everyone the same and with God’s love,” he said.  

Inspiration and encouragement  

Spending time with senior friars in Philadelphia, Beacon, New York, and Butler, New Jersey, inspired Br. Edgar to pursue health care.  

“It was really inspiring to be with them,” Br. Edgar. “We need to remember that they have built a legacy for us and find ways to be with them, support them and listen to them. This is my way of saying ‘thank you’ to them and telling them ‘I am here for you. All that you have done now has fruit. You have the voice, knowledge and experience, and we have the strength to build this new province together.’  

“I saw the need for someone to be with them, to be present to them and felt drawn to doing this in a professional capacity,” he added. “The friars saw it in me – the desire to care for and love people – but didn’t put any pressure on me.”  

Br. Edgar Alberto, OFM, celebrates Mardi Gras at Queen of Peace Friary. (photo courtesy of Ed Arambasich, OFM)

Finding ways to serve 

Currently at Queen of Peace, Br. Edgar is the youngest of 18 resident friars.  

“I help the friars here dress, shower, whatever they need,” he said. “It’s a blessing to be able to help care for them because they are my brothers.” 

“There is much human struggle and celebration that happens here at Queen of Peace,” said Br. Ralph Parthie, OFM, vicar. “We friars, who are used to being independent and self-determined, face diminishment and dependence and sometimes death. Yet, we face each day with as much enthusiasm for life as we can.  

“Edgar has companioned us on this journey, willingly sharing our joys and sorrows as individuals and as a brotherhood,” he continued. “He walks with us, laughs and cries and faces challenges with us with respect, care and generosity.  We have been blessed by his presence and are grateful to and for him. We are proud of his accomplishments this year. May he be blessed as he continues in his life as a friar.” 

Br. Edgar would like to gain practical experience as a CNA in a nursing home or hospice setting and hopes to continue his studies to become a registered nurse.  

“I find the health field inspiring and fascinating. I really consider medical personnel to be heroes and wish other young friars would consider this ministry,” he said.  

As solemn profession approaches, he added, “I’m excited. I feel ready. I love being a friar, being with my brothers and being with other people, sharing the Gospel with them. I’ve been blessed with so many opportunities, and when I look back and see how much I’ve grown spiritually and personally, I thank God. And I’m truly grateful for the support of the friars around the whole province.”