GASTONIA — On Nov. 5, Father Lucas Rossi, pastor of St. Michael Parish, celebrated the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus’ first year of service to the parish with a special blessing at the 9 a.m. Mass.
Now numbering more than 20 members, the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a ministry for teen girls that focuses on bringing them closer to God. They assist the church’s sacristans in setting up for Mass each day, replace votive candles, and refill holy water fonts, enabling them to remain in close proximity to Our Lord in the Tabernacle. They also grow closer to Him spiritually through monthly formation meetings led by members of the Daughters of the Virgin Mother. The goal is to create a reverent and holy environment that will allow each participant to develop a personal relationship with Christ while also fostering an environment for them to discern a vocation to consecrated life. Their mothers are also active participants in this ministry, serving as leaders for the daily Mass teams.
The Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus welcomes girls who have received first Holy Communion. Monthly meetings are held the first Sunday of each month after the 9 a.m. Mass. For details, contact the parish office at 704-867-6212.
— Deacon Bill Melton