St. Mary’s Parish in Lower Manhattan is celebrating 200 years as a parish. The parish serves our sisters at the Sacred Heart Convent. The week of celebrations began on May 16th, with a beautiful gala. The chapel and the basement parish hall have just been newly renovated. Fr. Tom Mctamara, the paster gave a brief history of the church which was built on the highest hill in the area by Irish immigrants. The evening was filled with great food and a lot of dancing.
Teaming Up to Help Our Immigrant Friends
The Cabrini Immigration Commission of the Guadalupe Province, and the Cabrini University CAVS and community responded to an urgent need in a local school district in Southeast Pennsylvania. Three immigrant families in that district are in dire straits due to varying circumstances. When contacted by Karol Brewer, Co-Chair of the Cabrini Immigration Commission, Holly Oliver, the district social worker, explained the differing plights of these families. Due to the overwhelming generosity of Cabrini University alumni, faculty and staff and Villanova University staff members over the past year, Cabrini was able to provide support in the form of gift cards to assist these struggling families. Holly Oliver administers the gift cards to ensure that they provide the necessities needed. Abundant thanks to everyone who allows our support to continue.
Be sure to mark your calendars for Mother Cabrini’s 176th Birthday on July 15th from 1 – 4 pm at the Cabrini Cottage when we will once again be giving Mother “birthday gifts” that will enable us to support these families in meaningful ways.
A Warm Welcome to you, Sr. Lucy!
Sr. Lucy brings with her a rich and diverse background in formation, ministry, and leadership within our Institute. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a Licentiate in Psychology from the Gregorian University in Rome. Her academic preparation has supported a life of service marked by attentiveness to both the human and spiritual dimensions of those entrusted to her care.
Throughout her religious life, Sr. Lucy has served in a variety of ministries across different cultural contexts. Her experience includes school catechesis, teaching Italian to middle school students, and serving as a nurse at Cabrini Hospital in Seattle. She has dedicated many years to formation as a Novice Directress in Latin America and the United States, accompanying young women in their discernment and growth in religious life.
Her international ministry also extends to Africa, where she has accompanied young women discerning their vocation and supported the ongoing formation of young sisters. This experience has deepened her commitment to intercultural formation, attentive listening, and the nurturing of vocations within diverse realities, strengthening connections across provinces and fostering a spirit of shared mission.
At the international level, Sr. Lucy has served as Coordinator of the International Formation Coordinating Team, fostering collaboration and unity in formation processes across provinces. She has also ministered as a Professor of Novices at the Conference of Religious in Guatemala and has offered therapeutic accompaniment to many religious sisters and brothers. Her leadership experience includes serving as Regional Superior in Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Mexico, as well as Provincial Superior in Argentina.
As she begins her service in the Guadalupe Province, Sr. Lucy expresses her desire to walk together in a spirit of synodality, listening deeply to each sister and fostering collaboration with the laity who share in our mission. She hopes to strengthen community life, promote vocations, support ongoing formation, and encourage a renewed missionary zeal rooted in our Cabrinian charism.
With trust in the Sacred Heart of Jesus, she looks forward to embracing the challenges and opportunities of our time with faith, openness, and hope.
We entrust Sr. Lucy’s new mission to the Lord and ask for your prayers, that she may be guided by wisdom, compassion, and courage in her service.
A Heartfelt Message from Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC and greetings from the Guadalupe Province
A Heartfelt Message from Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC
Dear Sisters, CLMs, lay leaders and colleagues, volunteers, benefactors and all who are part of the Cabrini community,
On April 30th, I will complete my term as the Provincial of the Guadalupe Province of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Being a Provincial is perhaps one of the most challenging and yet grace-filled times of my life. During these eight years we have experienced so much as a Province and in our world.
It would be hard to mention all that has happened; suffice it to say, we have experienced many crises and many graces and God was and continues to be with us! Throughout it all, we have sought to help one another and to be witnesses of God’s Love.
The journey continues and in order to respond with generosity and fidelity we need to walk together and exercise creative intelligence. We also need courage to listen to what God is asking of us and not be afraid of change. Jesus says to us, “Arise, go forth and trust that I will lead you.”
Thank you for the privilege to walk the journey with you. Let us pray for each other as we enter this time of transition. May you welcome Sr. Lucy Panettieri, MSC, the new Provincial, with the same warmth and collaboration as you did with me.
Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC
Thank you, Sr. Diane, for your vision and leadership throughout these eight years. May the next chapter of your life be filled with grace. Blessings.
Well-wishes from your lay collaborators…
Cabrini Health, Malvern, Australia
Cabrini in Australia would like to thank Sr. Diane for your leadership, support, and wise counsel over your years as Provincial Superior. Your visits ‘Down Under’ have always been busy and intense. However, there’s always time to try something new for a bit of fun!
~ All staff at Cabrini Health
Cabrini High School, New Orleans, LA
Cabrini High School New Orleans extends its deepest gratitude to you, Sr. Diane, for your unwavering support and dedication. Over the past two years, especially, marked by significant leadership transitions, growth in our student body, and meaningful campus-wide improvements and capital enhancements, your guidance and presence have been invaluable. Your profound interest in the lives and formation of tomorrow’s Cabrinian women has left a lasting impact. The Cabrini community has cherished the time you have spent not only with faculty and staff, but also with students and alumnae, who remain deeply passionate about Mother Cabrini’s enduring legacy. Cabrinian women are truly unmatched: strong, motivated, endlessly curious, and driven by a deep devotion to witnessing God’s glory in action. You embody this spirit wholeheartedly, and Cabrini High School is profoundly grateful for your commitment and contributions. As you move into your new role, the Cabrini community offers its prayers and best wishes for your continued success and faithful service.
~ Administration, Faculty, Staff and Students of Cabrini High School
Cabrini Immigrant Services – Dobbs Ferry and NYC
With deep gratitude, Cabrini Immigrant Services of NYC and Dobbs Ferry honor you, Sister Diane, as you complete your term as Provincial. We are grateful for your generous support of our mission and genuine solidarity with the immigrant communities we serve. Living out the charism of Mother Cabrini, you have supported us through seasons of growth and through moments of challenge. Your steady encouragement and wise counsel have made our organization stronger. Thank you, Sister, for everything. We wish you every blessing in the chapter ahead.
~ The Staff of Cabrini Immigrant Services
Cabrini Guatemala
On behalf of Cabrini Guatemala, we express our deepest gratitude to Sr. Diane for your eight years of dedicated and inspiring leadership. Your kindness, constant support, and strong sense of mission have left a meaningful mark across our ministries. Even from a distance, your vision of unity among us, your deep faith, and your encouragement, especially toward communicators, have been truly inspiring.
Your leadership has not only guided our work but has also strengthened our sense of purpose and belonging within the Cabrini family, reminding us that even across distances, we are united in one shared mission. We carry forward your example with gratitude and hope, keeping you always in our prayers.
~ All of us at Cabrini Guatemala
Cabrini Mission Foundation
On behalf of the Cabrini Mission Foundation Board of Trustees and staff, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Sr. Diane as you complete your term as Provincial. We thank you for your faithful leadership, wise guidance, and steadfast support throughout your tenure.
In the spirit of Mother Cabrini, you have led with courage, compassion, and deep trust in God’s providence. Your dedicated service and thoughtful discernment have strengthened the mission and inspired many to continue the work of healing, teaching and caring.
With sincere appreciation, we thank you.
(Everyone will be warmly invited to join the Cabrini Mission Foundation on October 23 for our Annual Gala when we will honor Sr. Diane.)
~ Christopher LaBianco, Executive Director
Guadalupe Province Offices – New York City
Dear Sr. Diane,
You have been a light to those of us who have had the privilege to work with you over the years. You have always made us feel appreciated and supported every step of the way. We wish you abundant blessings as you step into this new chapter of your journey. We pray that your new assignment brings you fulfillment, opportunities to serve others, and continued spiritual growth.
May your faith continue to guide you, your purpose grow stronger, and your work be filled with meaning and grace. May you find strength in every challenge, joy in every success, and peace in knowing you are exactly where you are meant to be. Congratulations, and may God’s presence go before you in all that you do.
~ Josephine Geraci, Dee Campos, Mike Tambasco and James Murphy
Guadalupe Province Offices – Pennsylvania
Dear Sr. Diane,
We want to share our deep gratitude for being such a kind, caring, and deeply considerate leader. Collaborating with you these eight years has been a joy and privilege and we’re thankful for the trust, support, and compassion you have brought to every moment. You have poured incredible heart and dedication into your role as Provincial, and now, we will look forward journeying together in new ways.
May you find time for rest and renewal as you anticipate your future ministries serving God’s people. We wish you love, grace, and every blessing as you continue your selfless service in the world.
~ Karol Brewer and Nancy Costello
Mother Cabrini Shrine, Golden, CO
Dear Sr. Diane,
With deep gratitude and affection, we thank you for your years of faithful leadership as Provincial of the Guadalupe Province. We are especially grateful for the generous support and encouragement you have shown Mother Cabrini Shrine. Please know of our heartfelt prayers for you and our lasting appreciation for all you have given so generously to the province and to us. May the Sacred Heart and St. Frances Cabrini continue to hold you close and bless you in this new season of life.
Gratefully,
JoAnn Seaman and the staff at Mother Cabrini Shrine
National Shrine of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Chicago, IL
Sr Diane,
We want to thank you for your eight years of leading the Guadalupe Province. Your leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact with all of us who have worked with you. We are so grateful for your guidance and unwavering professionalism. Our wish for you is to have a well-earned relaxing time to yourself and we look forward to working with you in your new role, whatever that may be.
~ Laurie Halaska and National Shrine staff
St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Shine, New York, NY
Volunteers do not necessarily have the time…they just have the heart.”
Volunteers do not necessarily have the time…they just have the heart.”
~ Elizabeth Andrew
Sr. Renee Kittelson, MSC attended a Volunteer Appreciation Event at the Gouverneur Skilled Nursing Facility on April 22, 2026. Sr. Renee has been a Catholic Volunteer at the facility for the past three years where the Missionary Sisters have been a presence t for many years.
We thank Sr. Renee for her dedicated volunteer service.
Cabrini Scholarship at Villanova
Last Thursday evening, members of our Cabrini University community attended the Villanova University Endowed Scholarship Award Dinner, specifically to honor the recipients of the Cabrini High School Scholarship and the Cabrini University Alumni Association Scholarship.
Unfortunately, neither of the student scholars could attend the dinner – one is studying abroad and one had to cancel at the last minute. We applaud their academic achievements and look forward to meeting them both in the near future.
Catholic Sisters Week
Catholic Sisters Week
Celebrating Traditions, Changing the World
March 8 – 14
Catholic Sisters Week is an annual celebration held March 8–14 that honors the extraordinary contributions of Catholic sisters and women religious across the United States and around the world. Observed each year during Women’s History Month, the week recognizes the spiritual leadership, compassionate service, and transformative impact of sisters in education, healthcare, social justice, parish ministry, advocacy, and outreach to people who are poor and marginalized.
Launched in 2014, Catholic Sisters Week invites communities to celebrate, learn about, and express gratitude for the lives and vocations of Catholic sisters. Throughout the week, congregations and organizations host events, share stories, highlight ministries, and promote vocations, helping others better understand religious life today.
Catholic Sisters Week also coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8, connecting the witness of Catholic sisters with the global celebration of women’s leadership and dignity. The week serves as a joyful reminder of the faith, courage, and dedication that Catholic sisters continue to bring to the Church and the world.
To learn more about Catholic Sisters Week click here
This year’s Catholic Sisters Week coincides with the Provincial Assembly of the Guadalupe Province. The Missionary Sisters will be joined by MSC General Superior Sr. Maria Eliane Azevedo da Silva, MSC and General Councilor Sr. Gilda Mercedes Mendoza Argueta, MSC for the discernment of new Province leadership. Please pray for the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit as the Missionary Sisters gather for their meeting.
Religious Vocation Fair at Villanova University
On Tuesday, February 10th, the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus joined in a Vocation Fair on the campus of Villanova University hosted by Fr. Jeremy Hiers, OSA, Vocation Director for the Villanova Province of the Augustinian Friars.
Twenty-one congregations of men and women religious who are members of the Delaware Valley Member Area of the National Religious Vocations Conference (NRVC) participated.
It was an event to introduce Villanova students to the many charisms in religious life and to meet religious sisters, brothers and priests and to learn more about religious life as a vocational path. Sr. Roselle Santivasi, MSC and MSC Vocation Team Coordinator Nancy Costello were present to meet and speak with students.
Warm Wishes for Sr. Joan McGlinchey, MSC
Sr. Joan will be missioned from Chicago to Dobbs Ferry, NY
On February 6, the Chicago community gathered in prayer and gratitude as Sr. Joan McGlinchey, MSC, was missioned to Dobbs Ferry, NY.
The Eucharist that evening was a heartfelt expression of thanksgiving for her many years of faithful presence among us. Sisters, collaborators, and friends came together to honor her steady leadership, wisdom, and deep commitment to the Cabrinian mission.
Sr. Joan’s life in Chicago spans decades. Through her service in congregational leadership and her support of key Cabrinian ministries in the city — including the National Shrine of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini and St. Anthony Hospital — she has helped strengthen and sustain our presence here.
Beyond the Institute of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Sr. Joan also served the wider Catholic Church as Vicar for Religious in the Archdiocese of Chicago and as a founding member and Board Member of AHLMA. In these roles, she accompanied women and men religious with pastoral care and ecclesial responsibility. Her leadership reflected a deep love for religious life and a commitment to communion within the Church.
Following Mass, the community continued the celebration with warm fellowship, shared memories, and heartfelt appreciation. A bouquet of roses and a joyful “Thank You” banner expressed what words alone could not.
As Sr. Joan begins this new chapter in Dobbs Ferry, we accompany her with prayer and affection, grateful for her witness and confident that her missionary spirit will continue to bless the congregation.
Greetings from Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC, Provincial
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Dear friends and all those who help us in sharing the good news of God’s love,
We are in the joyful season of Advent. Advent is a time of opening the spaces within our mind, heart and will so that we may receive fully the extravagant gift of God’s Love and share that love with others. This season helps us remember that Jesus took on our human condition to help us better know who God is and who we are called to be. With the arrival of Christmas, we take the time to celebrate with family and loved ones the wonder of Jesus’ birth. He is Emmanuel – GOD present among us.
As we celebrate this season of Advent and the Christmas season let us find moments to pause, to be full of gratitude, and to consider: what one act of love can I do to make our world a better place.
We, Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, (Cabrini Sisters), want to express our deep gratitude for your friendship, for walking this journey of Faith with us, and for all the countless ways you share your gifts with us. We pray for you, your family and loved ones. We join you in longing for the gift of PEACE for our world.
May you be full of HOPE, knowing that JESUS walks with you and loves you.
Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC