Handmaids of the Precious Blood pray with a pioneer spirit for priests By Emily Booker Just outside of New Market, on top of the third-highest point in Jefferson County overlooking the Holston River, a group of women keep vigil, praying for the sanctification of priests and the health of the Church. They are the Handmaids of the Precious Blood, a cloistered religious community who have called East Tennessee home since 2013. Due to their sequestered lifestyle, few may know of their presence, unless one happens to spot a couple of Sisters in wine-colored habits and white veils out running errands. But their work is mostly done in their chapel, spending time with the Lord and praying for His priests. A mission to pray for priests While some religious orders serve in schools or medical fields, the Handmaids are a cloistered order, meaning they mostly stay at their monastery and devote... Read more →