Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Bringing Christ's love to the world
Pope Leo XIV asked the world to join him in praying a rosary for peace on Saturday, April 11. A handful of regulars at St. Frances Cabrini Shrine thought the perfect place to do that was on Mother Cabrini’s bench! Clear blue skies, sunshine, and spring temperatures made it a beautiful time of prayer.
Although he never speaks in the Gospels, his actions reveal a man of deep faith, humility, and obedience to God’s will.
Joseph was a carpenter by trade, living in the town of Nazareth. The Gospels of Matthew and Luke describe how he was betrothed to Mary when he learned she was expecting a child through the Holy Spirit. Initially troubled, Joseph planned to quietly end the betrothal to protect her from public shame. However, after receiving a message in a dream from an angel, he accepted God’s plan with courage and took Mary as his wife, demonstrating extraordinary trust and righteousness.
Joseph played a vital role in safeguarding the Holy Family. He led Mary to Bethlehem for the census, where Jesus was born, and later protected them by fleeing to Egypt to escape the threat of King Herod. Eventually, he returned with his family to Nazareth, where he raised Jesus, teaching Him both his trade and the traditions of the Jewish faith.
Often called the “silent saint,” Joseph is honored for his quiet strength, integrity, and unwavering devotion. He is recognized as the patron saint of workers, fathers, families, and the universal Church. His life is a powerful example of faithful service, reminding believers that holiness is often found not in words, but in loving action, responsibility, and trust in God’s guidance.
Read Pope Leo’s comments on St. Joseph here
~ USCCB
In his homily, Pope Leo shared that the ashes that people receive symbolize human mortality and a world “in flames” – marked by war, environmental degradation and the erosion of justice and peace. He continued by saying that the ashes reflect not only personal sin but also broader social and cultural brokenness, urging Catholics to “call death for what it is” and to face both personal and communal failures with humility and courage. ~ Vatican News
The Pontiff stressed that Lent is not only a private devotion but a communal journey toward spiritual freedom. He encouraged Christians to respond to sin by bravely accepting responsibility and striving for genuine conversion. ~ USCCB
Beyond the traditional disciplines of fasting and prayer, Pope Leo also underscored the importance of everyday acts of kindness and reconciliation. He encouraged believers to abstain from harsh words and rash judgment, to promote peace in daily interactions, and cultivate charity in their homes and communities. ~ Vatican News
Bishop Daniel Turley and Pope Leo XIV, both Augustinian priests, worked together for many years in Peru. In fact, at one point, Bishop Turley was the Pope’s (Fr. Robert Prevost) supervisor.
On January 2, 2026, Bishop Turley met with Pope Leo XIV, which was the first time the two have seen each other since the Pope’s election. In the photo at the Pope’s desk, Bishop 
Turley is handing the Pope a letter from our National Shrine’s Board Chair, written by the Shrine’s Board Chair, Kathleen Sprows Cummings, regarding the 80th Anniversary of Mother Cabrini’s canonization.
Bishop Turley and Pope Leo XIV had a wonderful visit, catching up with each other as good friends.
A Joyful Week at the Shrine:
From Papal News to Mother’s Day Blessings
This past week was full of meaningful moments at Mother Cabrini Shrine in Golden, Colorado.
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On Tuesday, our local CBS affiliate visited the Shrine and interviewed Brother Jude Quinto, O.F.M., Cap., one of our Pastoral Ministers, about the election of Pope Leo XIV—the first American Pope. “Here at the Shrine, things got very electric all of a sudden,” Brother Jude shared. “We were able to ring bells and broadcast the announcement over the outdoor speakers. Everybody was turning on their news. Sister Alice was turning her laptop on. All of a sudden, I was like, oh my gosh, that’s an American! That’s somebody from the United States!”
Brother Jude expressed his hopes that Pope Leo XIV will continue the work of his predecessor, Pope Francis, while bringing his own leadership style to the Church. “We hope for a stronger church, that means a church that is more unified. A church that is welcoming to people of various walks and people, all people, who can find a place in the heart of God.”
On Sunday, the Shrine welcomed an overwhelming number of people and families for our Mother’s Day Masses and brunch. Our liturgies were filled to capacity, with overflow seating needed to accommodate everyone who came to celebrate the special day. After each Mass, the community gathered in the cafeteria for a warm and welcoming brunch prepared by the Shrine’s kitchen staff. The turnout was so strong, not a crumb was left in sight!
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate this special week!