The new residence hall at Ancilla College is ready for the rest of the student body to move in on Friday. The Most Reverend Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of the Fort Wayne-South Bend Diocese blessed the building during a ceremony yesterday in Donaldson attended by about 200 people. He says the word “Ancilla” is Latin for “handmaid.” When Mary was asked by the angel Gabriel if she would say yes to being the mother of the son of God, she answered, “I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it be done to me according to your work.” Bishop Rhoades says that act of faith inspired the sisters of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ to found Ancilla College.
Bishop Rhoades says we are all called to be servants of the Lord.
“That’s why it’s so important that this new building, which is so beautiful, that we ask with faith God to bless all who come here, all who live here, for many years to come, keeping those who are here safe, protecting them in this beautiful building, and that this Ancilla College community will continue to grow in knowledge, in faith and in love.”
Ancilla College President Dr. Ken Zirkle says the completion of the dorm by the start of school is nothing short of remarkable, considering construction started in March. He says they had no choice but to finish it before students moved in, as they didn’t have a housing alternative for them.
Zirkle adds the dorm is an incredible building everyone can be proud of. It is full to capacity, and some students are tripling up. On-campus housing is limited to freshman students beyond the commuter range for the campus.
