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Martin P. Joyce Juvenile Justice Center recognizes nun and priest
By LINDA M. LINONIS
YOUNGSTOWN
Though decades separate Sister Mary Dunn and the Rev. Terrence “Terry” Hazel age-wise from the children they minister to at the Martin P. Joyce Juvenile Justice Center, they have a rapport with the youth.
Their service at JJC, 300 E. Scott St., recently was recognized at an advisory board meeting. They received plaques noting their “outstanding contribution and dedication to the children and families of Mahoning County.”
What’s their secret in connecting with youth? “Kids know whether you’re sincere or not. And whether you’re really listening,” Father Hazel said to sum up his and Sister Mary’s demeanor with youths.
The Rev. James Barkett, chaplain and cognitive behavioral therapy administrator, came to JJC in 2005 as a chaplain and director of faith-based counseling for youths. An Orthodox priest, he serves Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Warren.
Father Hazel came on board early on in Father Barkett’s program; he also is involved in workshops and Fellowship Week. Sister Mary is a relative newcomer, volunteering the last two years.
Father Barkett and Judge Theresa Dellick applaud their positive impact on youth at JJC. Recognizing the ministries of Sister Mary and Father Hazel, Judge Dellick said: “They see into their hearts [of the kids] and not just see the outside.”
Father Barkett said a nondenominational approach is used; the faith-based counseling strives to bring God and faith back into the lives of youth to offer an example of how to live. Father Barkett said both Sister Mary and Father Hazel have a natural talent in how they connect to young people.
JJC deals with juvenile traffic offenders, delinquents and unruly minors and abused, neglected and dependent children. The court also hears and determines temporary and permanent custody of children, matters of parentage, child support, visitation and adult behavior in the care of a child. Services such as counseling and mediation are available to the public at no cost.
Sister Mary said she would admit to marking her 50th anniversary as a nun in the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown; Father Terry, pastor of St. Michael Church in Canfield, has been a priest for 40 years.
Sister Mary spent her career as an educator. She retired in 2013 from Youngstown Community School but knew she had more to give. Every Wednesday, Sister Mary visits with JJC youth. She said she begins and ends each session with a hug and a prayer. “I listen as they give me a recap of their day and talk about their lives,” she said. “And we pray.
“I can’t solve their problems, but I can listen,” Sister Mary said. “Somebody listening to them is meaningful.”
Sister Mary said she tries to convey that though they may have “made mistakes in the past, they can change their future.” Cases are not discussed.
Father Hazel also brings a wealth of experience; he logged more than 20 years in Catholic education.
“Talking and communicating with the kids is the main thing,” he said, adding, “they’re doing bad things for a reason.”
Father Hazel said many of the youth he ministers to admit feeling “hopeless and abandoned.”
“I want to convey to them that there is a tomorrow ... and they can change their futures.”
Father Hazel said he counsels children who will return to the same environment where they had problems.
“We talk about that return and how they can change their reactions,” the priest said.
Father Hazel again emphasized that his and Sister Mary’s sincere interest in the welfare of the youth must be apparent. He noted that the young people show “great respect for us.”