Long before she ever imagined calling The Homestead at Rochester home, spiritual outreach had already become a cherished routine for Sue Johnson. As a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, she began bringing Holy Communion to residents at the senior living community each week—quiet visits filled with gentle conversation, familiar prayers, and the kind of connection that lingers long after.
When COVID arrived and businesses could not allow all visitors, Sue persevered. She came faithfully to the front door of The Homestead at Rochester every Sunday, handing communion to staff who would then take it inside for residents. Week after week, she returned—until the lockdown finally lifted. “It was important to me,” she says. “Serving this community filled my heart.”
What she didn’t know then was that the sprawling campus on the north side of town would one day become her home too.
For Sue, now eighty-five, service has always been woven into her life. Born in New York City and trained as a psychiatric nurse, she spent decades caring for others. When her parents, who needed more daily support, moved to The Homestead at Rochester years ago, she saw firsthand how deeply they loved the community. She attended Communion services with her father, met his friends, and became part of the rhythm of life there.
When the time came in the summer of 2022 to make her own decision about where to live, it felt natural.
“My parents were happy here. They made friends. They were cared for. That made my decision easy,” she says. “And my friends tell me it’s the best decision I’ve made.” Nearly four years later, she still agrees.
Faith, Friendship, and the Power of Being Seen
Even after moving in, Sue continues administering Communion on Thursdays and Fridays to assisted living, short-term rehab, and long-term care residents.
She recalls their faces light up when she arrives at their apartment.
“People are always grateful,” she says. “They look forward to the visits. They greet me warmly. It warms my heart every time.”
One resident in particular, Jean, has become especially dear to her. Sue met her long before she moved in herself, and their spiritual journeys have been intertwined ever since.
“Receiving Communion is so important to her,” Sue said. “Bringing it to her is something I truly look forward to.”
These moments—quiet, meaningful, deeply human—are what Sue treasures most.
A Place Where Spiritual Needs Matter
Sue believes strongly that spiritual connection matters at every stage of life. She is grateful that The Homestead at Rochester’s leadership feels the same way
The administration understands how important this is,” she explains.
“We have many services throughout the week, and we even begin resident meetings with a prayer. It shows that our spiritual needs are a priority.”
For her, that support makes all the difference. It means residents don’t have to leave behind the traditions, rituals, or faith practices that have shaped their lives. Instead, those needs are honored—right where they live.
Finding Purpose in a New Chapter
Sue has built a full, rich life at The Homestead at Rochester. She has made friends, found purpose, and continues to serve in the way she always has—by showing up with compassion and consistency.
“I love doing this,” she says simply. “It’s a way to meet people and be of service to my friends and community.”
Sue’s story is a reminder that moving into a senior living community is not about giving up independence or identity. Sometimes, it’s about finding a place where the things that matter most—faith, friendship, purpose—are plentiful and can flourish easily.n’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have.
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