We’ve long been preparing for our diamond jubilee of foundation but that doesn’t mean the celebration is limited to one day. We will celebrate all year. There are just too many graces to thank God for in calling into existence our community and our mission in the Church. Only in eternity will we know all that the Lord desired in founding a family to pray and sacrifice for the sanctification of priests.
The Holy Spirit called our Founder, Father Gerald, to begin two distinct communities aimed at the sanctification of the priesthood. The Servants, for their part, work directly with priests while we Handmaids of the Precious Blood, live fully contemplative lives, praying and sacrificing for priests, especially through Eucharistic Adoration.
Several have asked us our plans for the year. Our first means of celebration can only be to adore and praise God for the gift of the priesthood to the world. No priests. No Eucharist. No Jesus. So Plan Number 1 is Adoration! The rest will be worked out as we go. It promises to be a year full of God’s surprises.
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- May, 1947 Father Gerald with the new arrivals.
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- Benediction
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- Bishop Stika encouraged us in our mission during his homily. Pray for priests!
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- Final prayer
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- Memorabilia display in the Chapter Room
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- We were grateful the Bishop brought his Executive Secretary, Sister Maria Juan, RSM, and Gabrielle Nolan from the Chancery Media Office.
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- Gabrielle is more than a photographer and took the time to learn as much as she could during our visit with the Bishop.
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- Bishop welcomes Aspirant Shannon and takes time to congratulate our Novice Sister Maria Crucis.
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- Most of the Handmaids pose for a group shot with Bishop Stika.
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- We opened an on the spot ad hoc monastery puzzle lending library. Sister Maria Juan took home a few favorites!
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- Even our cat Gunther was cordial and polite, letting the Bishop and others pet him. For him, that’s gallant and courageous.