Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Bringing Christ's love to the world

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Hearts of Service & Faith in Action

What happens when busloads of Cabrini Crescents show up at Second Harvest Food Bank for a service day? Hearts open wide, and the Holy Spirit transforms lives! Service was at the core of Mother Cabrini’s mission to uplift the marginalized, and we are honored to continue that legacy through our Campus Ministry Department.

This fall, our students began a new service and retreat initiative designed to help them live out their faith in tangible ways. Each class is participating in a two-day retreat experience: day one dedicated to service at Second Harvest Food Bank, and day two a class retreat focused on reflection, prayer, and community building. These experiences remind our students that living the Gospel means putting love into action.

At the heart of these efforts is our Campus Ministry Retreat Team, a group of passionate students who are pouring their hearts for Jesus into leading retreats not only for our Cabrini community but also for schools across the Archdiocese. Guided by Campus Minister Mrs. Nicole Jouandot, the team has joyfully hosted retreats for St. Louis King of France Catholic School, during which 5th and 6th graders toured the Cabrini Shrine, Mother Cabrini’s bedroom, chapel, and museum, learning about Mother Cabrini’s courage and deep faith. The team also collaborated with the Brother Martin High School Retreat Team to welcome Saint Dominic School’s 5th graders for a day of spiritual growth, prayer, and connection.

As Mother Cabrini once said, “You, my dearest daughters, are destined to live the life of the apostles.” Our Campus Ministry Department embraces that call with joy, serving others, spreading Christ’s love, and helping students encounter Jesus in both service and spiritual formation. The seeds being planted today promise to bear beautiful fruit for years to come.

Cabrini Students Shine at Archdiocesan Respect Life Gathering


Cabrini High School was proudly represented at the annual meeting of archdiocesan high school Respect Life Club Leaders with Archbishop Gregory Raymond. The event brought together two student leaders and one moderator from each high school in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, providing an opportunity for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration on the pro-life mission within Catholic education.

Representing Cabrini for the evening of faith and fellowship were junior Janaé Haynes and senior Makayla Richoux, along with campus minister, Nicole Jouandot. Haynes and Richoux are active on Cabrini’s Campus Ministry Board, Pro-Life Club, CHS retreat team and the new Bible Study Club. Both young women attended the national March for Life in Washington, D.C., and plan to return again this year.

The Cabrini representatives shared their school’s creative initiatives promoting a culture of life on campus. Archbishop Raymond commended them for being innovative and inspiring. The students expressed pride in wearing their signature pink Pro-Life sweaters as a visible symbol of their faith and conviction.

Before departing for the evening, Ms. Jouandot offered the students a tour of the nearby seminary, where she is pursuing a Master’s of Arts degree in pastoral leadership. The evening was filled with meaningful discussion, laughter, and genuine pride as Cabrini’s students spoke with confidence, grace, and conviction. Their strong voices and leadership true examples of what it means to be a Cabrini girl: faithful and courageous in living their values.

CHS Brazilian Student Video-Greets MSC General Superior

Antonella was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but moved to Brazil as a baby. A talented trilingual student fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, she wanted to strengthen her English skills, reconnect with the country of her birth, and complete her high school education at an American school in preparation for college.

She was encouraged to attend Cabrini by her cousin, Isabella Carvalho, a Cabrini sophomore, who knew that the school’s rigorous academics and supportive community would help Antonella achieve her goals. Working closely with Antonella’s family, Cabrini’s administration created a course of study that will enable her to graduate fully prepared for university.

Antonella is thriving academically and embracing the strong sense of sisterhood that defines the Cabrini experience. Her arrival coincides with two special milestones: the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus’ rededication of Cabrini’s Moss Street Building in New Orleans, and the celebration of the MSC family’s first Brazilian Superior General, Sister Maria Eliane Azevedo da Silva.

In this spirit of unity, Antonella shares a heartfelt message of gratitude in Portuguese to Sister Maria Eliane and the entire MSC community, honoring the global ties and shared mission that make Cabrini so special. ~ submitted by Anne Argus DiPaola, ’96, Communications Director, CHS

To watch Antonella’s video greeting please click here

To see how Cabrini High School’s science curriculum is using cutting edge technology, please click here

Academic Engagements Kickstart the New CHS Year

Our teachers spent the summer enhancing their mastery and expanding their instructional impact across subjects. Several completed ACT Instructional Mastery credentials. Some earned AP Certifications while others trained in TestBright ACT/SAT Curriculum. One faculty member completed ASCA Training to better support student transitions into high school.

Our world language faculty deepened cultural immersion abroad. Dr. Loreque Colimon studied French language and culture at the Université libre de Bruxelles. Vivian Coutin explored Spain from Santiago de Compostela to Salamanca, and Maria Vargas spent a month in Madrid. Cabrini faculty also represented the school at the national AP Annual Conference in Boston.

Student Crescents made their mark across the city, nation, and globe through Xavier University’s dual enrollment program, Xavier University’s College of Pharmacy and Tulane University’s neuroscience program.
Other students trained with Broadway Artists Alliance and made sure to make time for a visit to the St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Shrine, as well. Student leadership flourished at Louisiana Girls State and at the Louisiana Youth Seminar.

From Brussels and Madrid to Broadway and Louisiana leadership camps, Cabrini students spent the summer expanding their knowledge, talents, and personal impact. Our faculty and students’ collective efforts inspired our community and ensured the 2025 school year began with energy, confidence, and pride.

Birthday Celebrations

Mother Cabrini’s 175th in New York City

St. Frances Cabrini Shrine celebrated Mother Cabrini’s birthday in an abundance of ways! Our celebration kicked off on Friday, June 11 with an Immigration Action & Advocacy event to educate our neighbors about what’s happening, how they can speak up, and where they can learn more. The event was hosted by Cabrini Immigrant Services-NYC and Altagracia Faith Justice.

Cabrini Immigrant Services-NYC (CIS-NYC) joined the St. Frances X. Cabrini Shrine for an early celebration of Mother Cabrini’s birthday with an outdoor screening of the movie Cabrini on the Shrine lawn.

Before the movie, neighbors gathered for a community conversation on immigration, the work we do at CIS-NYC, and how we can give back. The discussion was led by our community organizer, Amelia, alongside partners from Altagracia Faith Works.
Afterwards there was birthday cake for all, including the 150+ neighbors who filled our lawn for a free screening of the CABRINI movie. Account continues on following page.
Saturday dawned bright and early with a Director’s Talk to over 60 people, followed by a joyous Mass in English for a nearly full house. “They sang like Protestants!” the music director exclaimed afterwards.

Two more birthday cakes were consumed before our visitors headed outside to purchase grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Then it was time for the Spanish Mass, also exuberant and full of life. Sr. Antonina Avitabile, MSC and Sr. Sharon Casey, MSC were on hand at both Masses to pray with pilgrims with the first-class relic of St. Frances Cabrini. ~ submitted by Julia Attaway, Executive Director, St. F.X. Cabrini Shrine, NYC

Friendship and Generosity Mark Mother Cabrini’s Birthday

Cabrinian entities have long been noted for their collaborative spirit. Celebrating birthdays are no exception. For the 175th birthday, the Cabrini Immigration Commission in concert with the Cabrini University Cabrini Alumni Volunteers and Supporters (CAVS) united to host a party for Mother Cabrini at the MSC Cottage in Wayne, PA.

All were welcome to honor Mother Cabrini by bringing “gifts” such as school supplies, toiletries, underwear, shoes and socks that will be given to immigrant children in four local school districts in southeastern Pennsylvania. Gift cards to stores such as Target and Walmart were also requested so that the social workers in these districts could share them with immigrant families in need.

Many who came for the celebration had not seen each other in months or years, but, were united in their concern for immigrant children especially during these uncertain times. We were especially delighted that faculty and staff members from Villanova University joined in the festivities.

The outpouring of support was overwhelming! Guests arrived with bags and boxes overflowing with items. A reoccurring comment from people was that they were grateful for the opportunity “to do something positive to be of assistance to our immigrant brothers and sisters.”

The Cabrini Immigration Commission and the CAVS are grateful to Dr. Susan Pierson, CLM, an Immigration Commission member and former education faculty member at Cabrini University, for being the catalyst for this initiative.

Deliveries of these items to the school districts will be made prior to the start of the new academic year.

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us and who gave so generously to the immigrant children Mother Cabrini served and loved so dearly.

A Birthday Mass at the National Shrine

We had 235 people attend our Birthday Celebration for Mother Cabrini this past Sunday at the 10 am Mass.

We also publicly announced our new Rector, Bishop Dan Turley, O.S.A!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

A Double Celebration at Mother Cabrini Shrine!

Mother Cabrini Shrine in Golden, CO, was full of life, love, and laughter on Sunday, July 13, as we celebrated the 79th anniversary of the canonization, and the 175th birthday of our dear Mother Cabrini. With a full to packed chapel at all three liturgies, it was a special day from start to finish.

Children from all over the metro area joined in the celebration at every Mass. They walked in procession, offered carnations to Mother Cabrini, and sang a heartwarming version of “This Little Light of Mine” that included a special new verse: “Just like Mother Cabrini, I’m gonna let it shine.” Their joy lit up the chapel!

At the start of the 2 p.m. Mass, our Spanish community brought even more beauty and tradition with a special dance down the center aisle in honor of Mother Cabrini. Afterward, they hosted a festive fiesta on the Shrine grounds—complete with food, music, and great company.

In addition to our Denver-missioned Sisters, we were also honored to welcome Sr. Bernadette Anello, MSC and Sr. Yolanda Flores, MSC to the Shrine for the celebrations. Their presence made the day even more meaningful.

It was a joyful and faith-filled celebration, and we’re so grateful to everyone who came to honor Mother Cabrini’s life and legacy. Here’s to continuing to let our light shine—just like she did.

On Tuesday evening July 15, the Sisters and staff at the Shrine welcomed over 100 of our faithful volunteers and donors for an evening of appreciation. The evening began with a prayer service in the chapel including a reflection on Mother Cabrini from Sr. Bernadette Anello. The evening concluded with a wonderful barbecue style dinner in the cafeteria prepared by the kitchen staff.

Happy Birthday, Mother Cabrini!

Cabrini of Westchester celebrated the 175th birthday of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in a very special way on July 15, 2025! A Mass, with live music, took place in the St. Cabrini Nursing Home Chapel and was televised throughout the nursing home for the residents to participate from their rooms. Delicious breakfast and lunch menus were prepared by the Food Service Department for the residents including a delightful treat of purple cupcakes in honor of Mother Cabrini.

Following Mass, all were invited to participate in a blessing ceremony of the beautiful Sacred Heart Shrine that was newly constructed in the front of the nursing home and dedicated to the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. As residents, family members, staff, Missionary Sisters and representatives from the Carmelite System gathered in front of the shrine, Bonnie Burke, Chief Executive Officer and Nursing Home Administrator addressed all by saying: “It is with deep gratitude and joy that we gather here to celebrate the birthday of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. Today, we honor her legacy, not only in prayer, but with a special and sacred symbol, the blessing of the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Sacred Heart of Jesus has always held a central importance to Mother Cabrini and the Missionary Sisters both as a spiritual foundation of the ministry and as the personal source of strength and serenity in their lives. This statue stands not only as a devotion to the Sacred Heart, but as a reflection of Mother Cabrini’s life. A life poured in service, hospitality and unwavering trust in the Divine.”

This gorgeous shrine was made possible through the generosity of Patricia Krasnausky, former President and CEO of Cabrini of Westchester, who recently retired after 27 years of devoted service to the home. We are grateful to Pat for the many years of leadership, guidance and dedication to Cabrini and wish her well in her retirement.

During the blessing, Fr. Ron Galt, Vice President of Pastoral Care and Mission gave a reflection on the meaning of the Sacred Heart and Fr. Michael Banks, OFM, Cap., resident priest, shared the formal blessing. Afterwards, resident priest, Fr. Bill Arlia, OFM, Cap., blessed the statue with holy water and a closing song was sang by all. A reception was held in the nursing home lobby directly following the festivities.

Thank you to all that participated and contributed to this happy day!

 

CHS Shows How Mother Cabrini Still Makes Headlines After 175 Years

It’s been an exciting week for Cabrini High School as the school’s community continues to shine across New Orleans.
Juniors Lizbeth Garcia-Cruz and Mia Reyes kicked things off with an inspiring appearance on Fox 8’s NOLA Now, where they spoke about the impact of women’s sports and how competing in soccer has shaped their confidence, leadership, and sense of purpose. Their passion was evident and a proud moment for the Cabrini Crescent community.

Cabrini High was also thrilled to announce that it has been named one of the Top Five Favorite Private High Schools in NOLA Family Magazine! Voting is open daily through August 15, and the school encourages everyone to keep the momentum going and help name Cabrini the NOLA Family Favorite for 2025. (Daily voting can take place here under the “schooled” category.) In addition to this honor, Cabrini was also named a “Place to Watch” for 2025 by NOLA Family–the only private high school in the city to earn this recognition. The magazine even visited campus this week for a professional photo shoot featuring Principal Ashley Evers and a group of camera-ready, smiling Crescents.

And finally, the highlight of this midsummer week on Bayou St. John: a birthday celebration for Mother Cabrini herself! In true Cabrini spirit, summer staff and a handful of students gathered in the school’s mid-renovation front lobby to honor Cabrini’s 175th birthday with cake, joy, and a fun social media reel for all Crescents, past, present, and future. Nearly two centuries later, her legacy continues to inspire young women to lead with faith, courage, and compassion.

Just the Beginning of their Cabrinian-Inspired Story

Cabrini Senior Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Exercisesr5.17.25rPhoto: Tyler Kaufman

Cabrini Senior Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Exercisesr5.17.25rPhoto: Tyler Kaufman

Cabrini Senior Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Exercisesr5.17.25rPhoto: Tyler Kaufman

The Cabrini High School community came together on Saturday, May 17, to honor the Class of 2025—53 extraordinary young women who collectively earned $13.5 million in scholarships; the average scholarship amount per graduate is $350,000. We’ve learned that this is, to date, the highest scholarship average among all girls’ high schools in the city of New Orleans.

This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the exceptional Cabrinian education provided at the school, the strength of our rigorous curriculum, and the dedication of college counselor Ms. Jessica Coalson, who works tirelessly with each senior to not only find the right college fit, but to secure enough scholarships and grants to give her the freedom to choose where to continue her academic journey.

Several students were recognized with major awards. Student Body President Harmony Addison received both the Principal’s Leadership Award and the Overall Leadership Award. Harmony will be attending Howard University, where she plans to pursue a career in obstetrics.

The day’s highest honor, the coveted Mother Cabrini Award, was presented to Hailey Thibodeaux. This award, voted on by the faculty and staff and approved by the administration, is given to the senior who best embodies the selflessness, faith-driven perseverance, and compassionate heart of Mother Cabrini herself—a senior who lives the core values of respect, excellence, and service. Hailey will be attending Louisiana State University to study pediatric oncology nursing.

As always, the seniors opened and closed the celebration in signature Cabrini fashion, carrying their yellow roses down the aisle and singing the Cabrini High School Alma Mater—hand in hand, heart to heart.
To hear the CHS graduates sign their Alma Mater please click here    Thanks to Sr. Yolanda Flores, MSC for sharing her recording.
Here’s to the Class of 2025,
just beginning their Cabrinian-inspired story!

Cabrini’s Class of 2025 Sets a New Standard

The Class of 2025 has achieved something truly remarkable. Cabrini High School is proud to announce that this year’s graduating class, 53 strong, has earned an astounding $13.5 million in college scholarships. That’s an average of $350,000 per student—a powerful testament to the academic excellence, leadership, and character fostered within the Cabrinian-educated school community.

This incredible accomplishment sets a new standard in the city and solidifies Cabrini’s role in New Orleans as more than just a high school. It is one of the strongest investments available to families seeking a bright future for their daughter, and this year’s graduates have proven that investment yields life-changing returns. With full scholarships to top-tier institutions across the country—including Baylor, Howard, Rutgers, and Villanova—our Doves are taking flight with confidence, preparation, and purpose.

Yesterday, at the annual Senior Luncheon, we celebrated these young women and their many achievements. Academic awards were presented in abundance, and the graduates were formally welcomed into the Cabrini Alumnae Association by Madeline Lipani Suer ’71—a moment that marked not just an end, but a new beginning in their lifelong connection to Cabrini High School.

The Class of 2025 may be turning the page, but their story is far from over. As they step forward as alumnae, they carry the legacy of Cabrini into every corner of the world, each one ready to make a difference.

We are especially proud to recognize this year’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian, two exceptional students who embody Cabrini’s mission and spirit:

Valedictorian: Grace Williams
Grace will attend Villanova University on a full Mother Cabrini Scholarship, where she plans to study neuroscience.

Salutatorian: Tessa Anderson
Tessa is heading to Baylor University, also on a full scholarship, to pursue studies in pre-med and biology.

From the classrooms of Cabrini to the frontiers of science and medicine, Grace and Tessa exemplify what it means to lead with intellect, integrity, and faith. Their journeys are just beginning, but their impact is already being felt.

The Class of 2025 has raised the bar, and in doing so, they’ve inspired the next generation of Crescents to dream boldly, work tirelessly, and live with purpose. At Cabrini, the future isn’t just imagined—it’s earned.

Excellence in Spanish Language and Culture

Cabrini High School in New Orleans proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of Tessa Anderson ’25 was awarded the José Luis Baños Award for Excellence in Spanish by the Sociedad Española. The award was presented by the Honorary Consul of Spain in New Orleans during a special ceremony recognizing exceptional achievement in the study of Spanish language and culture. Anderson was accompanied by Cabrini Assistant Principal and AP Spanish teacher Vivian Deschapelles Coutin, who also serves as President of Sociedad Española. Coutin opened the event with remarks highlighting the global significance of Spanish and encouraging students to continue pursuing linguistic and cultural understanding. Tessa will attend Baylor University this fall on a full tuition scholarship, where she will study pre-med/biology.

A Full House of Talent – Cabrini’s Spring Arts Festival Shines

Cabrini Athenians presented The Addams Family Musical to packed houses during Cabrini’s Spring Arts Festival earlier this month. One night was so popular that 75 extra seats had to be brought in to accommodate the crowd. The performances were outstanding, with vocals, harmonies, and choreography that rivaled local professional theater companies.

What sets Cabrini’s theater program apart from other Catholic high schools in the city is that it is entirely student-produced, both technically and artistically. From set design to lighting to choreography, it is the students who bring every aspect of the production to life. The long-standing Cabrini theater dream team—Argus sisters, Mary (’86), Caroline (’87), and Liz—guide the Athenians behind the scenes and direct them on stage to make the program one of the school’s largest recruiting tools.

A highlight of the festival every year is the gallery showcasing the work of Cabrini’s visual arts students, on display for audience members to enjoy before the show and during intermission. From bold acrylics on canvas and intricate pen-and-ink drawings to imaginative clay sculptures, the exhibit reflects the wide range of student talent.

Under the direction of veteran art teacher Cissie Gardner, the visual arts program continues to grow, offering students not just a creative outlet but a platform to explore their voice and vision. Each piece displayed during the festival added depth and vibrancy to the overall celebration of the arts at Cabrini High School.

Cabrini Dads Make Jazz Fest Parking ~ a Favorite Tradition for All

At Cabrini High School, forming young women into the faith-filled leaders God intends them to be is at the heart of everything we do. But behind the scenes, it takes more than just dedicated faculty and staff—it takes the commitment of our incredible Cabrini dads.
Each year, the Cabrini Dads’ Club works tirelessly to raise funds that directly support student education. Their biggest and most beloved fundraiser? Parking for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

Just blocks from Cabrini’s Bayou St. John campus, Jazz Fest draws world-class musicians, artists, and food lovers from all over for eight days at the end of April and the beginning of May. And for many of them, parking at Cabrini has become part of the tradition. Expertly managed by the Dads’ Club, Cabrini offers safe, secure parking and something more: a tailgating experience that’s as memorable as the festival itself.

For more than 40 years, Cabrini dads have transformed the Dads’ Club garage into a hub of hospitality—grilling burgers, playing music, and welcoming festivalgoers with signature warmth. It’s a one-of-a-kind atmosphere where many return year after year, their Jazz Fest experience incomplete without a twilight burger and a wave from a dad in a Hawaiian shirt.

Their generosity and spirit haven’t gone unnoticed. So beloved is the Dads’ Club that local news crews make it a point to stop by each year—not just to cover Jazz Fest, but to spend time with the dads themselves. They’ve become part of the festival’s story—not because they’re out to make a buck, but because their fundraising transforms lives.

That transformation is felt every day on campus. As one of Cabrini’s largest benefactors, the Dads’ Club has played a major role in supporting curriculum enhancements, capital improvements, and state-of-the-art technology—projects that keep Cabrini competitive in one of the most rigorous Catholic school systems in the country.

While we love celebrating the success of our students, it’s just as important to honor those who make that success possible. Cabrini is a family, and these faithful stewards in baseball caps are a vital part of it. Their work isn’t just service—it’s a legacy of love.

1260 Upper Gulph Road, Wayne, PA 19087
Phone: 484-581-7163   Fax: 484-581-7164
info@mothercabrini.org