Introduction

The Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Ancillae Cordis Jesu, is an international community of Roman Catholic women of all ages, races, and cultural backgrounds. Inspired by our foundress, Saint Raphaela Mary Porras, we have been drawn together by a common spirituality to give our lives completely to Jesus Christ and His people.

We truly want Jesus Christ to be the center of our life and love. In following Him we discover that it makes perfect sense today to be consecrated women in the world and for the world. We are convinced that the radical living of this consecration is a source of joy and fruitfulness.

Today, as in the first days of the congregation, the Handmaids strive to be true servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus by being agents of Reconciliation. As women of prayer, we depend on the "daily bread" of Eucharist, and find the fuel for our ministries through Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and a rich community prayer life.

In the United States of America Province since 1926, the Handmaids have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals from Pennsylvania to Florida, from Texas to North Carolina and Georgia. At present, there are thirty-three sisters in the United States who provide an array of services that continue the mission that Saint Raphaela Mary began in 1877.

The many talents of the Sisters are enriched by their cross-cultural community lives. American-born sisters live side by side with Handmaids of Cuban, Irish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Spanish, English, Colombian, Taiwanese and Peruvian origins. Ours is a rich human tapestry woven with faith and generosity.