The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ continue to live out the charism of attentiveness and courage modeled by their foundress, Saint Katharina Kasper, who was canonized on October 14, 2018. Guided by the Holy Spirit, the Associate Community of the congregation embraces this same charism, seeking to live with faith, service, and compassion in today’s world.

On Sunday, September 24, 2025, Sandy Garrison (Plymouth, IN), Jennifer Arndt (South Bend, IN), and Angela Harris (Donaldson, IN) made their formal commitment as members of the Associate Community during a special ceremony held in Ancilla Domini Chapel in Donaldson, Indiana. Surrounded by family, friends, fellow Associates, and members of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, these women publicly affirmed their desire to live according to the spirit of Saint Katharina.

Saint Katharina was known for her humility and her steadfast kindness, seeing every person as her neighbor and every encounter as an opportunity to share God’s love. Inspired by her example, members of the Spiritual Family of Saint Katharina seek to embody simplicity, community, dignity and respect for all, and openness to the Spirit. Together, the Associate Community and the Poor Handmaids partner to promote justice, peace, and care for creation, continuing the mission that began with Saint Katharina in 19th-century Germany.

We joyfully welcome Sandy, Jennifer, and Angela into this growing community of faith, service, and love.

On Saturday, November 15, the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ (PHJC) welcomed over 400 guests to the stunning Ancilla Domini Chapel for a performance of George Frideric Handel’s 1741 oratorio Messiah. The event featured conductor Andrew Jennings, Director of Liturgy and Music for PHJC, leading the Ancilla Domini Community Choir and Orchestra in a breathtaking interpretation of this timeless masterpiece.

The Messiah Concert, a free-to-attend bi-annual tradition, continues to be a cherished event for residents across Northern Indiana.

“It’s become a tradition for people to bring their families and friends,” Jennings shared. “It offers people the chance to step away from the busyness of life and experience something that might change how they view classical music. Even if they don’t speak to the person next to them, everyone is there for the same purpose. That shared experience helps form community, and I find that beautiful.”

The evening began with a VIP dinner featuring roast pork, roast chicken, pasta, vegetables, and cheesecake for dessert. The VIP guests were then ushered to their preferred seats in the chapel to await the concert. After Jennings’ opening remarks, the choir and orchestra performed 27 of Messiah’s 53 movements.

The performance showcased the talents of soprano Jessica McCormack, countertenor Joshua Boggs, tenor JR Fralick, and baritone Stephen Lancaster.

Jennings expressed gratitude to the event’s patron sponsors, including Nancy and Scot McKinnis, Taylor and Boody Organ Builders, Marian University, Rink Printing Company, Beacon Credit Union, and Split Road Media.

“I would like to thank, not only the Poor Handmaids, but also the sponsors who helped make this event possible,” Jennings said. “It’s very important to us to offer these concerts for free. We would never want a financial barrier to prevent someone from experiencing something like the Messiah Concert.”

The evening concluded with a warm reception in the Cenacle Dining Room, leaving attendees with a sense of joy, community, and appreciation for the beauty of sacred music.

Congratulations to the newly installed U.S. Province Leadership team!  

Installed today, this new team will guide the spiritual and ministry life of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ community. 

We joyfully celebrate the new team: 

• Sister Shirley Bell, PHJC, Province Leader
• Sister Deborah Davis, PHJC, Vicaress   
• Sister Marybeth Martin, PHJC, Councilor 
• Sister Connie Bach PHJC, Councilor 
• Sister Margaret Ann Henss, PHJC, Councilor 
   

Please join us in celebrating them and holding them in your prayers as they begin this sacred journey of leadership. 

Friday, December 12, 2025
5:00 – 7:00 p.m. EST
9601 N Union Rd
Plymouth, IN 46563

Step into the joy and wonder of the season at our annual Christmas at the Center celebration. Families, friends, and neighbors are invited to gather for an evening filled with warmth, laughter, and simple holiday magic.

Celebrate With Us

Enjoy festive activities for all ages, including:

• Photos with Santa
• Cookie Decorating
• Face Painting
• Holiday Crafts
• And more!

Whether you’re creating memories with little ones or simply embracing the spirit of Advent, this evening offers a welcoming space to pause, reconnect, and delight in the beauty of community.

All Are Welcome

This event is free and open to the public. Come share in the lights, the music, and the joy that fills the Center each December. We look forward to celebrating with you.