Catch-Up Number Three - Old Friends, New Sisters

On March 24, the eve of the Annunciation, Bishop John LeVoir of the Diocese of New Ulm established the Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus as a Public Association of the Faithful -- the first step toward becoming a religious community of diocesan right. Four sisters received their new habits and new names; one professed her simple vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Before moving to New Ulm, these young women were residents of our parish convent. They brought us soup when I was on bed-rest with The Baby last winter. They took the older kids over to the convent to do schoolwork and go on rosary walks. They hosted The Girls First Communion reception when I was overwhelmed with a new baby and the lack of space in our rental house.


My girls just adore them.

at Bishop Sirba's ordination in December

I have attended diaconate ordinations and priestly ordinations and even several episcopal consecrations, but I had never attended an investiture and profession of vows. It was a beautiful event. What made it even better is that The Girls were able to attend with me (my DH was out of town, my dad came to watch the younger two, and the three of us rode to New Ulm with our friend, Fr. B.).

It is rare that our daughters have the opportunity to see young women making this choice. Growing up, I saw primarily elderly nuns (God bless them!). Indeed, this has been the norm in America. But these wonderful women are young and alive and fun and, most importantly, they love our Lord. What a blessing for the Church that these women feel called to serve in diocesan schools and churches, being visible, so that more of our daughters will be exposed to this vocation and have occasion to discern whether this may be the life our Lord is calling them to as well. I am grateful for their presence in our lives, and especially in the lives of my girls. Please say a little prayer for them and for your own daughters. Give your daughters opportunity to witness the beauty of the religious life when you can and encourage them in their own discernment.

with Mother Mary Clare of the Heart of the Father

with Sister Regina Marie of the Holy Sacrifice of the Altar

with Sister Miriam Rose of the Incarnate Word

(We didn't get a picture with Sister Magdalena Marie of the Trinity -- this time.)