MASS TIMES

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Sister Michelle (Joan) Dermody, PHJC

Published: 1 November 2023
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Categories: Memory

March 5, 1933 – October 30, 2023

Sister Michelle Dermody, Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ, peacefully passed to eternal life on October 30, 2023 at Catherine’s Cottage, Donaldson, IN.

As the youngest of four children, Sr. Michelle was born in Hammond, IN and in her words, began her first roller coaster ride! Her parents, Michael V. Dermody and Mary Cecil O’Connor, brother Michael (Micky), her sisters Bernadette Hufford and Margaret (Peg) Johnson and brother-in-laws, Richard Hufford and Robert Johnson, as well as many Poor Handmaid Sisters preceded Sr. Michelle in death. Sr. Michelle is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Joan Dermody entered the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ on January 6, 1956, taking the name of Sr. Michelle. She professed vows on July 16, 1962.

With a focus on education, her ministry of teaching included schools in Indiana— Gary St. Mark’s, Mishawaka St. Monica’s, East Chicago St. Mary’s and in Chicago—St. Henry School.  Her ministry expanded to include parish religious education and youth ministry at: St. Ansgar in Hanover Park, IL; St. Bavo in Mishawaka; St. Rosalie in Harwood Heights, IL; Faith, Hope and Charity in Winnetka, IL. St. Catherine in Wellingborough, England. After studying sign language at Gallaudet College for the Deaf, Sr. Michelle also served the deaf community at St. Augustine’s in Cleveland, OH. Residents and staff were also blessed with Sr. Michelle’s loving presence when she served at the Catherine Kasper Home as assistant coordinator.

Sr. Michelle loved sign language and saw it as an art form, as well as a means of communication. She often used it as a personal expression of her spirituality. She will be remembered for her Irish wit and humor, celebration of life, joyful perspective and the smiles she brought to everyone she met.

Because of Sr. Michelle’s wish to be cremated, there will not be a viewing. Because storytelling was so natural to Sister Michelle, her wake service will include telling of stories.

The wake and funeral will be held on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at Ancilla Domini Chapel, Donaldson, IN. Directions best through this address: 9601 Union Road, Plymouth, IN, 46563.

All times are EDT

Wake Service and Storytelling— Friday, November 3, 2023, 10:30 am

Mass of Christian Burial— Friday, November 3, 2023, 11:15 am

For those unable to attend in person, the Mass of Christian Burial will be livestreamed at poorhandmaids.org/live.

Memorial contributions to the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, P.O. Box #1, Donaldson, IN 46513 or on poorhandmaids.org.

LCWR Stands in Solidarity with the People of the Middle East

Published: 17 October 2023
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Categories: Statements

“Never has the use of violence brought peace in its wake.
War begets war, violence begets violence.”

Pope Francis, Angelus, September 1, 2013.

The members of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR), in solidarity with the global community of faith, stand in the shadow of the horrors initiated on October 7, 2023 in Israel and Gaza.  As women of the Gospel, we grieve with those who grieve, seek release of those held captive, and recognize the root causes of violence as well as the urgent call for the use of all possible resources to stabilize the Middle East, secure refuge for those in humanitarian crisis, and negotiate peace that will last.

United with the interfaith community, we take seriously our responsibility to protect the safety of all people of faith throughout the world.  We stand united with leaders of other faiths, intolerant of any form of hate or violence towards places of worship, and ready to witness to the transformation of consciousness necessary for sustainable peace.

LCWR is compelled to work toward a world where reverence for all living beings finds expression in a life of nonviolence. We stand in solidarity with the victims of brutality and with faith leaders as we heed the Gospel call to follow Jesus’ way of nonviolence, reconciliation, and care for the most vulnerable across lines of division.

We commit ourselves and the members of our religious communities to choose the peaceful path of Jesus and exercise all of our rights and duties as citizens to urge our leaders to act as responsible members of the world community. We join our prayer with religious people of all faiths who recognize that war is not the solution, and we commit ourselves to be those who believe that peace is possible.

We call upon world leaders and the United Nations to activate those mechanisms necessary for an immediate ceasefire and the negotiation of peace, so that justice may prevail.  We are each responsible to be aware, to be informed by factual information, to look at root causes, and to reject rhetoric that fuels violence. 

We, the members of LCWR, will continue to speak on behalf of the truth of faith, the strength of prayer, the power of nonviolence and the only pathway that will provide a future for our children: peace.

Resources for Review and Use:

USCCB Statement on Violence in the Middle East

HIAS and the Call to Humanitarian Response

Invitation to Weekly Wednesday Prayer, Churches for Middle East Peace

Friends Committee on National Legislation

Churches for Middle East Peace

Patriarchs of Jerusalem Churches Unite in a Call for Peace and Justice

FOSNA:  Colonial Violence and the pursuit of a just peace

Revised on October 14, 2023

Handel’s Messiah Concert: A Harmonious Evening of Music

Published: 5 October 2023
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Categories: Uncategorized

Join us for an enchanting evening of music at the Ancilla Domini Chapel.

Date: November 18, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm (EST)

Location: Ancilla Domini Chapel: 9601 Union Rd. Plymouth, IN 46563

Admission:

  • Admission to the concert is absolutely FREE! Just arrive early to secure your seats.

What to Expect:

  • Experience the magic of the Messiah Concert, featuring a 50-member choir, four talented soloists, and an 18-piece orchestra.
  • Be captivated by the mesmerizing performance of Handel’s masterpiece.

Dinner Options:

Dine Before the Concert – An Exquisite Dining Experience

Pre-Concert Dinner:

  • Dinner will be served before the concert, starting at 5:30 PM (EST) at Cana Hall.
  • Select from two delightful choices:
    • Prime Rib Dinner: $70 per person
    • Couples’ Dinner Package: $120 for two

What’s Included:

  • Your dinner ticket includes:
    • VIP seating for the Messiah Concert following dinner.
    • A signed program by the soloists and Andrew.
    • Pictures with the soloists, Andrew, and/or orchestra members.

Dinner Menu:

  • Indulge in a delectable meal featuring:
    • Entrée: Prime Rib sourced from Ancilla Beef.
    • Plated Salad: Each seat will have a salad.
    • Dinner Rolls: Available at every table.
    • Sides: Baked sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes with gravy, chef’s choice of vegetables.
    • Dessert: Cheesecake with a sugar-free option.
    • Drinks: Water, lemonade, coffee, and tea.
    • Vegan option available upon request only.

Reserve Your Dinner Tickets:

  • To secure your dinner tickets please contact Jessye Gilley at jgilley@poorhandmaids.org or click the button below for online purchase.

Sponsorship Opportunities:

  • Would you like to become a sponsor for this enchanting event? Explore our sponsorship opportunities to support our cause and receive special recognition.

Sponsorship Levels

Stay Tuned:

  • Follow us on social media for event updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and more.
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Christmas at The Center at Donaldson

Published: 2 October 2023
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Categories: Uncategorized

Joy to the World: A Fun Evening of Christmas Magic

 

Date: December 2, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm EST

Location: The Center at Donaldson

It’s FREE! Come and have fun. The earlier you come, the more fun you can have.

What’s Happening:

  • Pictures with Santa: Meet Mr. & Mrs. Claus and get a special photo.
  • Frame Decorating: Make a cool frame for your photo or any picture you like.
  • Cookie Decorating: Make your cookie look fun before you eat it.
  • Face Painting: Get a fun design painted on your face.
  • Story Time: Enjoy some Christmas stories told by the Sisters of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ.

Sensory Friendly Room: We have a quiet room set up if things get too noisy or busy. It’s a place where kids can feel safe and calm.

Join the Fun! Come with family, friends, and neighbors. Let’s make this Christmas special together.

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Organ Recital Featuring Nicole Keller

Published: 1 August 2023
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Categories: Uncategorized

A Harmonious Evening at Ancilla Domini Chapel
Experience the Magic of Organ Music with Renowned Artist Nicole Keller

Date: September 10, 2023

Time: 4:00 pm (EDT)

Location: Ancilla Domini Chapel

Admission: Absolutely FREE! Just come early to grab a good seat.

About the Recital:
Dive into an unforgettable evening of music. This isn’t just any organ recital; it’s a chance to hear world-renowned artist Nicole Keller, known for her unique blend of traditional and contemporary pieces, play in the stunning setting of Ancilla Domini Chapel.

Why You Should Attend:

  • Unique Experience: This event won’t be streamed online, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.
  • Meet the Artist: After the show, enjoy some snacks and a chance to chat with Nicole.
  • For Everyone: Whether you’re a long-time music lover or new to organ recitals, this evening promises to be enjoyable for all.

About Nicole Keller:
Having played at prestigious venues from New York to Paris, Nicole is more than just a musician; she’s a storyteller. With each note, she brings her audience on a journey, blending classic tunes with new sounds. Plus, as a dedicated teacher, Nicole shapes the future of music at the University of Michigan. For more information about Nicole Click here. 

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Concert at the Center: A Free Family-Friendly Event in Plymouth, IN

Published: 31 July 2023
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Date: Saturday, September 30, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm (EDT)

Location: 9601 Union Rd. Plymouth, IN 46563

Make the most of the final summer days with a joyous evening at The Center at Donaldson! On Saturday, September 30th, at 6 pm EDT, we’re hosting a FREE concert perfect for the entire family. The Acousticats will be gracing the stage, serenading us with beloved tunes from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Hosted on our beautiful front lawn, this event promises to be a spectacular end to summer. Bring a blanket or chair, get comfortable, and let the music carry you away! To keep your stomachs as satisfied as your ears, we’ve invited a local food truck to serve up some delicious bites.

Whether you’re a music enthusiast, food lover, or simply enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors, this concert is for you. Mark your calendar, bring your loved ones, and join us for a night of community, music, and starlit skies.

Live Music by The Acousticats: Travel back in time and groove to the hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Food Truck: Satisfy your taste buds with delicious offerings from our featured local food truck.

Family Fun: A perfect outing for families, with activities and entertainment for all age groups.

Free Entry: No tickets, no fees! Just come along with your family and friends and have a great time.

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FAQs:

Q: Is there parking available at the venue?
A: Yes, ample parking is available for attendees near the event location.

Q: Are there any transportation options available at the venue for attendees?
A: Yes, a golf cart ride will be available upon request, exclusively for those with handicaps.

Q: Are there any COVID-19 precautions in place?
A: We prioritize the safety of our attendees. All necessary precautions as per local health guidelines will be in place.

Q: Can we bring our own food?
A: While you’re free to bring your own snacks, we encourage you to try the delicious offerings from our local food trucks.

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A Saint that Ignites My Vocation

Published: 10 May 2023
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Categories: Vocations
by Sr. Connie Bach, PHJC

On October 14, 2018, I had the wonderful experience of a lifetime in attending the canonization celebration of our foundress, Saint Katharina Kasper at St. Peter’s in Rome. It set me on fire! I am still left speechless when I am asked what it feels like “to be the daughter of a saint!” I know down deep inside that following “Catherine” calls me to a deeper commitment in my personal life to the conscious pursuit servant leadership at all levels in my life, as she did, among the poor and underserved and in care for Earth.

In my human, imperfect nature, I can only turn to “Catherine” as a model exemplar. She herself was a poor German peasant girl who knew nothing about religious life but sought only to do the will of God in her life. She was unlearned and sickly, but she had a passion for service, a dedication to prayer, a devotion to Our Lady and a desire gained from a vision to gather women around her who sought to do the same.

“Not all those who point the way to God for us may themselves be perfect. There are figures gleaming in their holy causes who are awkward in their personal lives. They are sometimes in confusion, as we are. They are virtuous beyond telling in one dimension and weak to the point of sin in others. At the same time, they hold a fire in their hearts bright enough to light a way for many. They are impelled by the will of God for humankind and they will brook no less. They stand on gilded stilts above the rest of their generation and become a sign for all generations. They are proof of possibility from ages past and a symbol of hope for ages yet to come. They stand in mute conviction of the age in which they lived and challenge us to do the same. Most of all, they are important to us now. “ —from A Passion for Life by Joan Chittister (Orbis)

As a daughter of Saint Katharina, I desire to grow more intimately in love with God and to move beyond myself in reaching out to others in love and compassion, sharing the fire within while helping to build the kingdom here among us.

Where did I obtain such zeal? I believe my parents planted these seeds early on. They always taught by word and example to never let a good deed go undone. As well, I learned many lessons from my Poor Handmaid teachers at St. Mary’s in East Chicago. In fact, I have many mentors who have touched my life in ways not always seen. I learned to be the hands, feet, voice and eyes that see and serve those most in need with deep compassion.

My then pastor, Fr. Bob Gehring, nurtured these same seeds. He taught me that we will never be perfect, but we are always loved and touched by God’s grace in mysterious and amazing ways if we are attentive enough to feel the spark, open enough to allow it to enkindle our hearts and, as Pope Francis exhorts us all, ready enough “…to set the world ablaze!”

Saint Katharina Kasper ignited the same fire in her sisters when they began the congregation in 1851 and again in 1868 when she sent the first eight sisters to America to serve German immigrants and orphans. Over seven thousand women have walked in her shoes, and I am deeply grateful for her electrifying spark in my life!

Sister Antoinette Volk, PHJC

Published: 17 April 2023
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Categories: Memory

January 15, 1922 – January 1, 2022

Sister Antoinette (Marie) Volk, Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ, died at 99 yrs old on January 1, 2022 at the Catherine Kasper Home, Donaldson, Indiana. She was just 2 weeks away from her 100th birthday.

Born to Anton and Catherine (Kuenstler), Wendelin, IL she was preceded in death by her parents along with her brothers Virgil, Anton, Don, Louis and her sister, Sr. Loretta Volk, PHJC. She is survived by her sister Ethel Zwilling.

Sister Antoinette entered the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ September 8, 1943 and professed her vows June 25, 1946.

Sister Antoinette began her ministry in the dietary departments at Angel Guardian Orphanage, St. Mary’s School Carlyle IL, St. Mary’s Hospital East St. Louis IL, and St. Joseph Hospital Fort Wayne IN. Beginning in 1960 she held dietary supervisory positions at Convent Ancilla Domini in Donaldson IN, St. Mary’s Hospital Gary IN, and St. Augustine Convent Chicago IL. In 1990 she became the Coordinator of Hospitality for the United Family Center, Chicago IL. and transitioned in 1996 as a companion to the elderly from Saint Peter and Paul parish Chicago IL. Sister Antoinette considered each new mission a new beginning and in it she made love visible. Sister’s daily living was a prayer of loving service which she offered up for each person. Before Sr. Antoinette left her last mission and retired, the presenter at her farewell expressed the sentiments of so many people: “We are humbled by her gift of prayer and the beauty of her complete trust in God not on a day-to-day basis, but, minute-by-minute.”

Sister Antoinette officially retired to the Catherine Kasper Home, Donaldson, IN on July 1, 2001. Even in retirement she continued to serve by caring for the other sisters and residents at Catherine Kasper Home. She also designed and sewed baby quilts and comforters, selling or gifting to those in need, and her creations were always admired and appreciated.

Visitation and Services will be held at Ancilla Domini Chapel in Donaldson, Indiana.
Visitation on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 (4:30 – 8:00 p.m. EDT); Prayer Service (7:00 p.m. EDT)

Visitation on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 (10:00 – 11:00 a.m. EDT ) followed by the Mass of Resurrection and burial in Mount Carmel Cemetery, Donaldson, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, PO Box 1, Donaldson, Indiana 46513 or on poorhandmaids.org.

Sister Inez Wilmering, PHJC

Published: 17 April 2023
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Categories: Memory

Sister Inez Wilmering (Louise), Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ, died on Tuesday, May 10th at the Catherine Kasper Home, Donaldson, Indiana. She was 99 years of age.

She was born in Mishawaka, IN to Paul and Catherine (Young) who preceded her in death along with her brother John R. Wilmering.

Louise entered the Poor Handmaid Community on December 8,1940 taking the name Sister Inez. She professed her vows on June 25,1943.

Sister Inez’ early ministry was in clerical work at three hospitals. In 1952 she received her nursing degree and served as a nurse and supervisor at various PHJC hospitals. The hospitals included St. Mary Mercy, Gary, IN; St. Mary, East St. Louis IL; St. Joseph, Fort Wayne IN; St. Joseph, Mishawaka, IN. At St. Catherine, East Chicago, IN Sr. Inez was discharge planner and clinical instructor in pharmacology and diabetes. She completed her nursing career at the Catherine Kasper Home in Donaldson, IN from 1977-1985. She then moved on to internal community service being quite adept at wrangling the challenges of Medicare in the business office. Later, she served as a faithful volunteer. She loved God’s beautiful earth and being outdoors. Her garden was her joy!

Sister Inez shared that her call in Baptism gave her the wonderful gift of faith. Faith was her guide and support throughout her 99 years and continued to grow as she experienced God’s love for all of creation.

She officially retired in October 2015 moving to Catherine Kasper Home, Donaldson.

Visitation will begin at 9:30am EDT on Tuesday, May 17 in Catherine Kasper Home chapel, with a reflection and sharing of her life at 10:00am EDT. The Mass of Resurrection will follow at 11:00am EDT with burial in Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Services will be live streamed at poorhandmaids.org/live.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, PO Box 1, Donaldson, Indiana 46513 or on www.poorhandmaids.org.

Sister Pauline Bridegroom, PHJC

Published: 17 April 2023
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Categories: Memory

September 9, 1937 – August 27, 2022

Sister Pauline Bridegroom, PHJC (Sr. Mary Luke), Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ, passed away at age 84 at the Catherine Kasper Home, Donaldson, Indiana.

She was born in Leiters Ford, Indiana to Paul Lough and Louise Genevieve Bridegroom (Emge). Her parents preceded her in death, along with her sisters Ann Toole Harrison and Jennifer Emge Bridegroom (Dodie) and niece Terri Vylee Esposita. Sister Pauline is survived by her brother Thomas Bernard Bridegroom, sister-in-law Jan and many nieces and nephews (including greats and great greats!)

Sr. Pauline entered the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ August 22, 1956 and professed her vows July 16, 1959.

She ministered to God’s people in a variety of ways: in education, pastoral care, as hospital chaplain, librarian, clerical assistant. She served at Angel Guardian Orphanage in Chicago, schools in Mishawaka, Fort Wayne, Gary IN and in Germantown IL. She also served at St. Joseph Hospital in Mishawaka and Fort Wayne, McAuley Retirement Center in Farmington Hills MI and John XXIII Retreat Center in Hartford City IN. She retired to Catherine’s Cottage in Donaldson in 2016.

She brought joy to many people through her stories and humor. One of the ways Sr. Pauline brought her playfulness to others was entertaining folks as the clown, ‘Sweet Cheeks.’ We are grateful for Sr. Pauline and all the lives her life touched.

Wake and funeral September 1, 2022 at Ancilla Domini Chapel (All times EST)
9:30 – 10:30 a.m.— Wake Service and Visitation
11:00 a.m.— Mass of Resurrection

For those unable to attend in person, the Wake Service and Mass of Resurrection will be livestreamed at www.poorhandmaids.org/live.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, PO Box 1, Donaldson, Indiana 46513 or on www.poorhandmaids.org.