As many know by now, Monday, October 5 was the inaugural Frances Cabrini Day in the state of Colorado. Earlier this year, Governor Jared Polis signed into law House Bill 1031, which designates a paid state holiday named after St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. Cabrini Day is also the first paid state holiday named for a woman. While the Missionary Sisters and the Shrine were not a part of the legislative development of Cabrini Day, we were eager to celebrate our beloved saint and share her legacy.
The first Cabrini Day at Mother Cabrini Shrine was a joyous, beautiful Colorado fall day. Even during these challenging days of Covid-19, many first time and returning visitors alike came to the Shrine wearing their masks, and while social distancing were able to celebrate and honor Mother Cabrini and learn more about her life of love and service and her dedication to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
In a touching message on Cabrini Day, Frances Owens, the former First Lady of Colorado, commented:
Mother Cabrini is special in our family not only because she is my namesake, but also that of my granddaughter, Sofia Frances. Coincidentally, Sofia was born on December 22nd – and Mother Cabrini died on December 22nd!
I am so honored that my parents named me Frances; and that my daughter and son-in-law chose to include it as Sofie’s middle name
Multiple media outlets and social media sites covered this historic day and interviewed some of the Missionary Sisters. We look forward to future Cabrini Day celebrations!
For a TV interview with Sr. Lucy Panettieri, MSC, click here
For a TV interview with Sr. Lucy Panettieri, MSC and Sr. Roselle Santivasi, MSC click here
For a newspaper interview with Sr. Roselle Santivasi, MSC in The Gazette click here
For a column in the Denver Post click here
For a magazine article in Denver Catholic click here