Inspired by Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, a trailblazer whose faith, determination, and commitment to serving others changed lives around the world, Cabrini High School’s inaugural Leadership Academy empowered rising seventh-grade girls to discover their own potential as leaders. Held June 1–5 on Cabrini’s campus, the weeklong experience reflected the school’s commitment to leadership, encouraging young women to lead with conviction, compassion, and confidence.
Designed for girls entering their final year of grammar school, the Cabrini High School Leadership Academy challenged participants to explore what meaningful leadership looks like and how they can put those values into action as they prepare for high school and beyond.
What made the Academy especially remarkable was that, while Cabrini faculty and staff provided guidance and oversight, the program was entirely planned and led by Cabrini students. Student leaders who excel in academics, athletics, clubs, and service designed and facilitated every presentation, small-group discussion, and activity, creating a powerful celebration of young female leadership in action.
Participants stepped outside their comfort zones and discovered that leadership takes many forms. Through hands-on experiences, interactive workshops, and collaborative projects, the girls explored how leaders inspire, serve, and create positive change in their communities. Participants mastered state-of-the-art lab equipment, strengthened study skills, and learned about the academic opportunities available to them through advanced coursework, competitions, and conferences. They developed public speaking and communication skills, explored personal branding and self-confidence, and gained practical tools for becoming effective leaders both inside and outside the classroom. Leadership also came to life through service as the girls organized and prepared 100 lunches for community members in need.
At the Academy’s conclusion, these future Crescents developed a deeper understanding of what it means to lead, serve, and make a difference in their schools and communities.
“I am here to pay homage to Mother Cabrini,” the Pope told all those gathered in the church for his visit. Pope Leo praised Mother Cabrini as a model for Christians today, especially for her compassion toward migrants and those on the margins of society. He encouraged young people to learn about her life and writings, highlighting her courage, trust in God, and dedication to serving those in need.
On this coming Saturday, June 20th, Pope Leo XIV plans to visit the northern Italian village of Sant’Angelo Lodigiano, where he will venerate a saint close to his heart and ours: Mother Frances Cabrini, who was born there in 1850 and died in 1917 in Chicago, the pope’s hometown.
The perpetual pilgrims of the St. Frances Cabrini route of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage arrived bright and early on Tuesday, June 16 for a day of rest and reflection.
In May, Ivonne Moreno-Rodriguez, Social Work Supervisor at Cabrini Immigrant Services of NYC, joined humanitarian workers, faith leaders, and advocates in the 23rd – Annual Migrant Trail Walk through the Sonoran Desert. The seven-day, 75-mile pilgrimage honors migrants who have lost their lives while seeking safety, reunification with loved ones, and opportunities for a better future in the United States.
Following Sister Theresa’s renewal, Cabrini staff and volunteers affirmed our commitment to carry on our shared mission, celebrate Mother Cabrini’s life as our inspiration, and bring God’s love to the world by providing exceptional care for our patients, the community and each other.
The celebration began in partnership with the Archdiocese of Denver as Catholics joined others across the nation in the Consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The day included Adoration, confessions, a bilingual Liturgy of the Word, the Consecration Prayer, a procession, and benediction.
d to the beauty of the celebration.
A huge tent was already set up on the lawn for the Cabrini Immigrant Services fundraiser scheduled for the next day, so we ate fresh-grilled hot dogs and hamburgers beneath it. Then God did something utterly magnificent: He sent a rainstorm. It was tremendous, stupendous, and utterly irresistible. The 25+ children squealed with glee and, almost as one, darted out onto the grass to dance in the rain. They ran in circles. They raced in and out of the tent, shouted to each other, held their mouths open to the sky to drink in the gift. It was joy, pure joy.
Cabrini Immigrant Services (CIS), Dobbs Ferry, NY held a STARS (StoryTelling, Art, Reading and Socialization) Program for students in grades Kindergarten – 2. Dr. Wendy Mages, our trained s toryteller, told the story, The Way You Shine by Marielle E. Sabellico. The children loved the story and discussed how they shine in their community. Some children shine by helping at home, some recycle, some water plants and there were so many other ways.
Back by popular request, Sr. Bridget Zanin, MSC, returned to Cabrini Immigrant Services -Dobbs Ferry (CIS-DF) to speak with our Knitting Group. She spoke about the miracles that have been attributed to St. Cabrini.
Today, in a world often marked by loneliness, division and suffering, the message of the Sacred Heart reminds believers of God’s enduring love and mercy. Mother Cabrini’s life demonstrates that genuine devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is rooted in prayer and serves as a catalyst for action. Her life shows that Christ’s love inspires compassion, service, and a commitment to the dignity of every human being.