American Academy of the Sacred Arts, Philadelphia, PA

©S.M. Paula - THE HANDMAID
"The Handmaid" is a 62-inch sculpture by Sister Paula Beierschmitt. It consists of a sheaf of wheat supporting the Virgin Mary in motion. It depicts the Virgin about to make bread, distracted by a breeze, seconds before the Archangel Gabriel speaks to her of the Messiah.

Is this the way it was -
The ageless salvation gift's announcing
Sculpted in a moment of time?
Strangely different, touching, haunting,
Earthily commonplace, sublimely graced.

She stands - a humble toiler
Strong, queenly, poised.
Head turned, still with the surprise
At the breath of angel voice.
Eyes and mouth resolute
Yet mellowed warm with winsome tenderness.
Budding breasts revealing her readiness for birth.

Cloak and girdled-gown, their wind-brushed flowing
Clasped in a hand that would let
No hindrance to the message,
Even here where she toils gathering wheat.
Feet firmly resting on God's good earth
Yearning in wait for it's savior.

A total, human woman:
"How can this be . . . ?
A total, open servant:
"Be it done until me . . .?

The wait is over
And WORD becomes flesh

This Yahweh-woman
Stands forever on wheat;
Totally His, handmaid and mother,
Yet, gift to His people,
One of your own.

- Sr. Maria Corona Crumback, I.H.M.

The American Academy of the Sacred Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization incorporated in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The purpose of the organization is to glorify God in the cultural disciplines by fostering original art, educational outreach and ecumenical dialogue. All contributions are tax-deductible. Gifts of time and talent are also deeply appreciated.