On Thursday, December 12, our talented Crescents, under the direction of Ms. Elizabeth Argus, delivered a breathtaking Christmas concert in the Sacred Heart Chapel. From the stirring opener “Dona Nobis Pacem” to audience favorites like “Beautiful December” and an engaging old English carol sung in the round, the evening was a masterclass in harmony and spirit-filled performance. A major highlight was a powerful rendition of “Carol of the Bells,” which brought the audience to awed silence before erupting into applause. The Sacred Heart Chapel, where Mother Cabrini once prayed and planned, continues to provide a warm and acoustic-friendly home to our Cabrini singers. We eagerly anticipate their next performance.

Additionally, our liturgical choir, led by Ms. Lauren Bordelon, brought Christmas cheer to the residents of St. Margaret’s at Mercy, a nearby retirement home. Their mix of festive carols and sacred hymns showcased the spirit of the season while spreading light and joy to members of our community who need reminders of the hope that Christmas brings.

Finally, this year’s Christmas on the Bayou was another unforgettable celebration of a cherished Cabrini tradition. Families, alumnae, and friends gathered on the steps of the school along Bayou St. John to enjoy a live nativity and performances by our Crescent singers, dancers, and cheerleaders. The highlight of the evening? Santa’s arrival by pirogue, paddling down the bayou to the delight of children, especially the youngest Cabrini legacies proudly sporting their “Legacy” Santa hats. Events like this are made possible through the tireless efforts of our generous parent volunteers and the dedicated Cabrini Dads’ Club. This magical evening captured the essence of Christmas and Cabrini High School, creating lasting memories for all. ~ submitted by Anne Argus DiPaola ‘ 96 Communications Director
For your listening pleasure, here is the link to hear the first ¾ of the Carol of the Bells:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1719275108926734

Just last week, Campus Ministry teamed up with the Pro-Life Club to co-host a special assembly featuring nationally and locally renowned pro-life advocates. Rebekah Hagan shared her moving testimony about unplanned pregnancies and grace-centered advocacy for life. Dr. Angela Parise, an OB/GYN from New Orleans, spoke about her work in minimally invasive and robotic surgery and medical care for expectant mothers, while Hannah Guilliam of Louisiana Right to Life inspired students with her passionate plea for the sanctity of all life. Seniors Sophia Felps and Hailey Thibodeaux provided strong leadership in organizing the event, which offered students a meaningful opportunity to engage with critical life issues through the lens of faith and compassion, and Campus Minister Nicole Jouandot and Pro-Life Club Moderator Elizabeth LeBlanc’s excellent guidance helped facilitate such a powerful student-led initiative.

Faith and the core value of service to others continue to be cornerstones of the Cabrini High School experience, reminding students of Christ’s love and the importance of walking the Cabrinian life together.

The Cabrini High School Campus Ministry team has spent the fall semester guiding students in faith, service, and community activities.

The Class of 2028 Stars—named for Mother Cabrini’s prayers to Our Lady Star of the Sea as she overcame her fear of ocean voyages—gathered for their Freshmen Retreat, led by senior members of the Campus Ministry Retreat Team, at the Louisiana Children’s Museum. The retreat’s theme was inspired by Mother Cabrini’s words that encourage everyone to “love one another with the holy love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” Through prayer, reflection, and heartfelt activities, students explored love in its many forms: self-love, love for others, and Christ’s boundless love. The day included moving testimonies, small group discussions, and a meaningful Litany of the Sacred Heart shared from the St. Frances Cabrini Shrine in New York. Students left inspired, with rosary bracelets as a tangible reminder of Jesus’ love. The retreat concluded with a beautiful Mass in the Sacred Heart chapel.

The Class of 2029 Violets—named for Mother Cabrini’s childhood imaginative play of sending paper boats filled with violets downstream as “missionaries” to China—experienced their first Cabrini retreat as a day of faith-filled reflection and bonding. Led by the Senior Retreat Team, the Violets participated in activities designed to celebrate the school’s rich history of sisterhood among classes and to deepen their relationship with Christ. Unique to their retreat were engaging games that strengthened friendships, small group shows of unity, moments of quiet meditation in the Sacred Heart chapel, and the exchange of uplifting notes among peers, adding a personal and heartwarming touch to the day. This retreat was a joyful introduction to the Cabrini sisterhood, of which they have five more glorious years ahead, and a powerful reminder of the love that unites the Cabrini High School community.

Recent Cabrini High School graduate, Marley Marsalis ’24, has had a very memorable summer in Orléans, France. As part of her reign as Joan of Arc in the 2024 Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc parade, Marley participated in an exchange program made possible by the Rotary Clubs of New Orleans and Orléans. This exchange was established to build an even stronger link between the two twin cities. In partnership with the Orléans Jeanne d’Arc association, the Rotary Clubs decided to organize a visit of the “Jeanne” in each city, every other year.

Marley’s story is unique because she lived in Orléans for two years as a teenager. During this time, she discovered the Joan of Arc celebrations in Orléans and immerse herself in the history of Joan of Arc. This significant experience deeply inspired her candidacy as Joan of Arc 2024 of New Orleans.

Clairvie Quesnes, an Orléans woman appearing as Joan of Arc in 2023, had the chance to meet Marley in New Orleans and experienced the city’s carnival season, celebrating Joan of Arc’s birthday on January 6. This summer, it was Marley, who visited Orléans and was able to meet Maïlys Boët, Joan of Arc 2024. They discussed their respective experiences and the way in which the two cities celebrate the heroine.

Marley comes from a famous New Orleans family of jazz musicians. Her father is musician Jason Marsalis, and her grandfather, Ellis Marsalis, was a renowned pianist, composer, and jazz teacher. Her uncle, Wynton, was the first jazz artist to receive the Pulitzer Prize for music. Her uncle Branford also received numerous awards and has played with other artists including Sting, Harry Connick Jr., and Phil Collins. Continued on next page.

Marley took advantage of her visit to Orléans to give a piano recital in the auditorium of the Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Orléans, where she demonstrated her talent, moving easily from Bach to Haydn, from Chopin to her grandfather’s scores. That same week, she performed at the Grand Piano Festival at the Place de la République.

This fall, Marley begins her undergraduate studies at Tulane University, where she will be double majoring in Political Science and French with a minor in Music Performance.

On May 22, 2024, a Mass of Thanksgiving was held in the historic Sacred Heart Chapel, honoring the dedicated volunteers of Cabrini High School. This special event recognized the unwavering commitment of individuals who contribute to the school’s mission of educating the minds and hearts of young women in the Catholic Cabrinian tradition.

After the Mass, representatives from each volunteer group summarized their contributions in terms of hours worked and funds generated for the school. The groups honored included:

• Alumnae Association: Former students who continue to support the school through various initiatives including annual scholarships to legacy students.

• Parents’ Association: Current parents involved in school activities and fundraising efforts.
• Dads’ Club: Fathers of current and graduated students who actively participate in events and projects benefiting the school community, including Jazz Fest parking, which is the largest fundraiser for the school each year.
• The Elenian Club: A group dedicated to preserving the Italian heritage in New Orleans by facilitating the annual St. Joseph’s Altar. The group also funded the needed repairs to the Sacred Heart chapel roof.

Each group presented a summary of their contributions, showcasing their hard work and dedication. These presentations highlighted the significant impact of volunteer efforts on the school’s programs and facilities.

Following the check presentations, attendees gathered for a light reception in the Mother Cabrini prayer garden. This gathering provided an opportunity for volunteers, administration, and guests to celebrate the achievements and enjoy fellowship in a beautiful setting.

The Mass of Thanksgiving and subsequent reception underscored the importance of community and volunteerism in sustaining Cabrini High School’s mission and traditions. To view the photos from the event, click HERE.

Camp Cabrini:
A Summer Experience for Young Girls

Cabrini is an engaging summer program designed for young girls entering the 1st through 7th grades. Hosted by Cabrini High School, the camp offers a dynamic blend of educational and recreational activities in a relaxed and fun setting.

Each week at Camp Cabrini is packed with a variety of sessions that cater to diverse interests:
• Arts and Crafts: Campers unleash their creativity with various art projects.
• Dance and Cheer: Participants learn new dance routines and cheerleading techniques.
• Movies and Theater: Girls explore the world of cinema and drama through screenings and performances.
• Cooking: Campers get hands-on experience in the kitchen, learning to prepare delicious dishes.
• Sewing: Basic sewing skills are taught, fostering both creativity and practicality.
• STEM Activities: Engaging sessions in science, technology, engineering, and math ignite curiosity and problem-solving skills.

integral part of the camp experience includes learning about the inspirational life of Mother Cabrini. Campers visit the Sacred Heart chapel where Assistant Principal Vivian “Chica” Coutin shares the story of Mother Cabrini’s life and her global impact. Many campers, having watched the Cabrini movie, enthusiastically share their knowledge with the other campers, making the learning experience interactive and engaging. The campers also visit Mother Cabrini’s bedroom and the dedicated museum, deepening their understanding of her legacy.

What summer camp experience would be complete without weekly field trips to offer a change of scenery and additional fun. Campers go bowling, visit the movie theater, play laser tag, and roller skate.

Campers consistently highlight two favorite aspects of their Camp Cabrini experience: making new friends and weekly snowball treats – a beloved New Orleans tradition!

Camp Cabrini offers a well-rounded, enriching summer experience for young girls, blending learning, creativity, and fun in an environment that fosters friendship and personal growth. Through diverse activities and inspiring sessions about Mother Cabrini, campers leave with new skills, cherished memories, and a deeper connection to Cabrini High School.