The Catch the Spirit Gala hosted by Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center- Plymouth on July 11 celebrated the Congregation of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ and their service to the community and health system.
The Community Spirit Award has been given to Marshall County residents since 1998 who exemplify the spirit of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center-Plymouth who demonstrate passionate giving, enthusiastic service and tenacious vision.
Accepting the honor was Sister Judith Diltz and Sister Pauline Bridegroom, PHJC. Sister Diltz said, “It’s not how much we do for humanity, but how well we do it.” Referring to their devotion, she said, “We love to be unknown. I accept this for the great things and also for the little things.”
Sister Bridegroom, who served for 19 years in Mishawaka area, said, “Our spirit has lasted down the years.”
According to information provided at the event, the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ are an international congregation. Worldwide they number 600, and approximately 90 sisters form the American province. They minister to the community in a number of areas including education, healthcare, spiritual growth, the environment and social work.
In 1909, upon a request from Bishop Alerding, the congregation founded the St. Joseph Community Hospital in Mishawaka, IN. Their work in caring for the ill, children and elderly in the Fort-Wayne-South Bend diocese and additional sites throughout the Midwest continues.
President and CEO, SJRMC, Albert Gutierrez shared the history of the Congregation of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ. He shared a video of the story that depicted the unselfish work of the congregation including pictures of sisters wielding wheelbarrows in the actual construction of the facilities.
Presenting the award was Tricia Sloma, emcee for the event.
Sloma was given a basket of gifts for her long association with the annual event containing natural products produced at Earthworks at the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ facilities in Donaldson, IN.
Carol Anders Correspondent
