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A community of nursing sisters who would care for the clergy was Gemma's first inspiration for a new charism.
While in high school--and after her reception into the Church--all three of her parish priests fell ill with the flu--and
there was no one to help them. Gemma was also a Candy Striper at her local Catholic hospital; however, her pastor declined
any assistance from her.
Gemma entered practical nursing school upon completion of high school. While in college, she discovered Elinor
Tong Dehey's book, Religious Communities of Women in the United States at her local library. The book proved
to be a smorgasbord of information on the foundation of religious communities.
The inspiration to found a band of nursing sisters had continued to grow within Gemma's heart. Within
Dehey's book she found an emblem not unlike the gold host and chalice in a red crown of thorns she had been inspired
to put on the new community's scapular. From that moment, she has felt a spiritual kinship with the other community.
The primary purpose of the nursing company is to render assistance to sick priests, and provide and/or staff retirement
homes for the same.
As Ecclesia Dei Traditionalists, the community's religious exercises will include the Latin Tridentine
Mass; Latin Divine Office; Contemplative prayer; Lectio Divina; Rosary; and adoration.
In accordance with Canon 669, the habit shall be the following: sapphire blue tunic with scapular which bears
a gold host and chalice surrounded by a red crown of thorns; black veil with white coiffure; black belt with black 20-decade
rosary. A crucifix ring will be worn by those who have made final profession.
The stages of formation and their habits shall be:
Nova (three months): white blouse, skirt, hose, shoes, and thin veil, gold host and chalice surrounded by red
crown of thorns pin.
Postulant (nine months): black blouse, capelet, skirt, hose, shoes, and short veil. Distinctive pin retained
from Novaship.
Novice (two years): sapphire blue tunic, distinctive scapular, black belt and rosary, white veil and coiffure.
Temporary profession (five to eight years): receives the black veil.
Final profession: receives crucifix ring.
Discerners who are of an autocephalous; sedevacantist; or schismatic mindset, yet feel called to this community,
will be required to be reconciled to Rome before making application. We recommend deep discernment. May the Holy
Ghost be your guide.
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