Founded in 1950, the Optus Spiritus Sancti isn’t just a building. It is a testament to the vision of one man, Father Bernhard Bendel. He believed the Holy Spirit was the true founder. He simply answered the call. The Bishop of Limburg invited Father Bendel to create a sisterhood. After much prayer, Father Bendel accepted. The first sisters arrived in Mammolshain, Germany, in 1950. This marked the humble beginnings of the Optus Spiritus Sancti. The name itself means “Work of the Holy Spirit” in Latin. It embodies the core belief that guides this unique organization. The Optus Spiritus Sancti began as a sisterhood but quickly expanded. Father Bendel’s Easter-Pentecost spirituality drew others. Laypeople and priests alike were captivated by its positive and optimistic message. This led to the formation of the Community of Apostolic Christians and the Secular Institute of Diocesan Priests. The Optus Spiritus Sancti continued to grow. Within its first decade, word of this vibrant community reached bishops worldwide. They invited Father Bendel to bring the Optus Spiritus Sancti to their dioceses. By 1962, the organization had reached Sioux City, Iowa. Then it spread to Tanzania in 1964, India in 1969, and the Philippines around 1990. The Optus Spiritus Sancti transformed into an international, missionary community. It stands as a beacon of faith and service across the globe. Father Bendel led the Optus Spiritus Sancti as its first International Rector until his death in 1980. His legacy lives on in the five communities that make up the Optus Spiritus Sancti. These include the original Apostolic Life Community of Sisters. They also include the Secular Institute of Women, the Community of Apostolic Christians, the Secular Institute of Diocesan Priests, and the Apostolic Life Community of Priests. The Optus Spiritus Sancti remains a powerful force for good in the world. It is driven by the same Easter-Pentecost spirituality that inspired its founding.
Adlerwerke
From bicycles to Nazi atrocities, the Adlerwerke in Frankfurt has witnessed a tumultuous history. The Adlerwerke, meaning “Eagle Works,” began