‘It could have been me’: Nurturing compassion, understanding at Angela House

The mission of Angela House is to help transition women into society after incarceration.  (Photo By Marcus Norwood/Herald)

HOUSTON — At Angela House, staff and volunteers offer compassionate support to women transitioning from incarceration back into society. Guided by the profound acknowledgment that “It could have been me,” they recognize the potential for anyone to be in a similar position given different life experiences and opportunities.

Valencia Lewis, director of Angela House, witnesses firsthand the major impact the ministry has on all those who encounter the women in residence. She finds it awe-inspiring to see lives transformed as the women regain their self-dignity and work toward self-sufficiency and empowerment in a supportive community.

“Many of our ladies come to us broken and filled with doubt, so being able to help restore their self-dignity is one of the most important aspects of our ministry,” Lewis said. “Whether you’re a staff member, a volunteer, or an intern, it’s crucial that we express compassion, love and forgiveness when our residents face challenges.”

At Angela House, up to 16 residents can find refuge in a therapeutic environment structured for the unique needs of each woman, providing trauma-informed rehabilitative services in a safe, homelike atmosphere.

The ministry, featuring rent-free housing, nutritious meals, counseling and vocational training, provides personalized services catering to emotional, spiritual and educational needs, empowering each woman to recognize her strengths, set personal goals and impact meaningful changes.

“We have a lot of groups and amazing community partners that provide assistance, which is what makes Angela House so unique,” Lewis said. “Showing love, forgiveness and compassion is the most important aspects of our work. Every day, we strive to demonstrate these qualities, not only benefiting others but also bringing ourselves personal fulfillment.”

The impactful story of Angela House began in 2002 with its establishment by founder Sister Maureen O’Connell, OP, who served as director until 2018. Initially contemplating a mentoring program, Sister O’Connell recognized the pressing need for a safe residence providing essential tools and skills for women trapped in cycles of recidivism. Serving close to 500 women over two decades, 87% who have spent at least four months in the program have successfully transitioned into society after incarceration.

Reflecting a profound belief in God’s unconditional love and forgiveness, Sister O’Connell’s vision continues to offer hope and support to those in need, highlighting Angela House’s commitment to serving its community with loving guidance and effectiveness.

“Working with the women at Angela House and helping them to see that, regardless of their past experiences and history, God is always going to be there and not turn His back on them,” said Sister O’Connell. “For me, my work is a reminder of the gratitude I have as a Catholic Christian. I am thankful for the opportunity to provide care for one another and work in ways that will be helpful to those suffering.”

Victoria Shockley, a new resident at Angela’s House who recently completed a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence, is working toward breaking the cycle of dysfunction within her family and starting her life anew.

“I am enjoying every moment now that I’m not under the influence, so Angela House is good for me,” Shockley said. “It’s better than where I was three and a half years ago; I should have been dead, but God saved me for a reason. I’m trying to find a purpose, and I’m very thankful for this program because there are a lot of opportunities here.”

Reflecting on programs focusing on shame resilience and facing childhood traumas, Shockley acknowledges the damaging influence of her own father’s inconsistency — a pattern she unfortunately repeated with her own children. Determined to break free from this dysfunctional behavior, she actively participates in Angela House’s offerings, seeking healing and personal growth.

“I’m working on changing my whole life around ... and to be there for my kids,” said Shockley. “I lost a lot of time being selfish in my addiction, and I regret it deeply. I am grateful for this opportunity, and I thank you, Jesus, for giving me my life back and allowing me to take back what the devil stole from me.”

Monique Bennett, a resident since May 2023, reflects on her transformative journey with profound gratitude. Angela House has been instrumental in her emotional growth, teaching her to better understand and accept her feelings instead of avoiding them. Through the support and resources provided, she has also learned essential life skills and acquired a new sense of independence and maturity she once thought unattainable.

“Angela House has helped me get back into the community,” Bennett said. “I’m just so grateful for everything they’ve done for me, teaching me new tools and skills that I never thought I would acquire. Now I know how to go to meetings, how to take the bus in downtown Houston, keep a job — I feel so grown up.”

Bennett also believes Angela House has empowered her to become a positive influence in her community. She now leads meetings in Alcoholics Anonymous, inspiring others to stay focused and optimistic amidst their struggles.

“Angela House is the start of your foundation to stay on the right path, and I recommend it to anyone,” Bennett said. “Giving back is how I show my gratitude, and I wish I could do more. It’s just so neat to see women come and grow, and just live their life out as the better version of themselves; and that’s what you get out of here — a better version of yourself.”

Lewis invites newcomers to Angela House to contribute their time and skills to make a difference in the lives of women, families and the community. She expresses profound appreciation for the faithful support of the annual Diocesan Services Fund (DSF), which sustains critical services like shelter, meals, therapy and programs.

“I am sincerely thankful for the support that Angela House receives because it enables us to offer a safe place for our residents to sleep and access full meals and services they may have lacked before,” said Lewis. “This support not only benefits the residents directly but also impacts their families and the community at large, as they gain skills and lessons that empower them to make a positive contribution.”

Sister O’Connell reflects on the blessings that have stemmed from the support of the DSF and the commitment of numerous volunteers who generously offer their time, talents and resources to further the mission of the ministry.

“I witness women who have gone through the program years ago who are still working hard to maintain their sobriety and a healthy lifestyle,” said Sister O’Connell. “It is a great delight to see these women who I know were served because of Angela House and are willing to do the work it takes for them to be able to maintain a healthy position in the community.”

To learn about Angela House, visit www.angelahouse.org. To donate to the Archdiocese DSF’s annual appeal, visit www.archgh.org/DSF.

The DSF supports Angela House and 60-plus additional ministries, whether direct service or education, which require this critical funding to remain in operation. Out of each gift given to DSF, 100% of every dollar goes directly to supporting these ministries.