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Congratulations to Sister Michele Dvorak, PHJC
Newly Elected Congregational Leader of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ
The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ joyfully announce the election of Sister Michele Dvorak, PHJC as the new Congregational Leader of their international congregation.
Elected during the 26th General Chapter held in Dernbach, Germany—the birthplace of our foundress, Saint Katharina Kasper—Sister Michele begins a six-year leadership term (2025–2031) that will shape the mission and ministries of the congregation across nine countries.
A member of the United States Province, Sister Michele brings a lifetime of commitment, spiritual wisdom, and compassionate leadership. As Congregational Leader, she will serve at the heart of our global community—guiding, listening, and discerning the will of God alongside her fellow Sisters with courage and grace.
The role of Congregational Leader is a sacred calling: to walk humbly as a servant leader, to foster unity among diverse cultures, and to uphold the charism of Saint Katharina Kasper through every act of service and love.
We ask you to join us in prayer for Sister Michele and the newly forming Congregational Leadership Council, as they step into this sacred work of leadership and begin a new chapter in the shared journey of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ.
“Let us go wherever God may call us.”
– Saint Katharina Kasper
Announcing the Congregational Leadership Council (2025–2031)
The 26th General Chapter has also confirmed the election of the new Congregational Leadership Council who will serve alongside Sister Michele:
- First Councilor: Sister Sabitha Kalathil, PHJC (also elected Vicar of the Congregation)
- Second Councilor: Sister Nkechi Iwuoha, PHJC
- Third Councilor: Sister Rita Thykootam, PHJC
Please keep the new leadership team in your prayers as they begin this meaningful work in the spirit of unity, faith, and service.
For any further queries or information, please contact us.
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PHJC Statement on the Election of Pope Leo XIV
POOR HANDMAIDS OF JESUS CHRIST
Statement on the Election of Pope Leo XIV
With hearts full of prayer and hope, the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ rejoice in the election of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV. We extend our deep gratitude to the Holy Spirit for guiding the discernment of the College of Cardinals and offer our unwavering prayers for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his apostolic service to the People of God.
We recognize in Pope Leo XIV a shepherd deeply formed by his life among the people—born of the Americas and having served shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters across its communities. His life of ministry embodies the Gospel values we hold dear: humility, courage, and a preferential option for the poor.
Rooted in the charism of our foundress, Saint Katharina Kasper, we are reminded of her humble yet courageous spirit. She often said, “Whatever God wants, will be done,” expressing a deep trust in the will of God.
In this moment of transition and renewal for the universal Church, we echo her faith-filled surrender and commit ourselves anew to serve the poor, the sick, and the marginalized—those Christ himself loved so dearly.
The Gospel of Matthew reminds us: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). We believe Pope Leo XIV has been called to this servant leadership, to shepherd the Church with compassion, justice, and a heart attuned to the needs of all, especially those on the peripheries. We pray that his witness may call forth a deeper dialogue across differences, the dismantling of systems of oppression, and the restoration of dignity for all—especially the poor, the migrant, the excluded, and the wounded.
As Poor Handmaids, we stand ready to journey alongside our Holy Father in advancing the Gospel message of love, mercy, and inclusion. May Pope Leo XIV lead with the wisdom of the Spirit, the courage of the saints, and the humility of Christ.
In faith and service,
The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ