Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Bringing Christ's love to the world

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MSC Ministries in Africa Severely Impacted by USAID Cuts

~ by Christopher LaBianco, Cabrini Mission Foundation

Following recent changes affecting the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Cabrini Mission Foundation is reaching out on behalf of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the Holy Spirit Region, which includes Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) Ethiopia and Uganda. These missions are facing a critical funding freeze.

In Sub-Saharan Africa where the Sisters serve, young women and adolescent girls are at high risk of exposure to and infection with HIV. This heightened risk is driven by factors such as cultural gender norms, labor migration, mental health challenges and domestic violence. The Missionary Sisters provide medical care, education, and support for HIV prevention and treatment, empowering these vulnerable populations to lead healthier, safer lives.

In addition to their impactful HIV care programs, the Sisters offer essential services that address the root causes of vulnerability and create opportunities for success. These programs include:
 Education support – Protection services – Gender violence case management
And Community leadership development

The Holy Spirit Region urgently needs $60,000 to bridge the funding gap caused by the freeze. Every donation – no matter what the size – will make a meaningful difference.

If you feel called to help, please click this link to donate.

Cabrini Mission Foundation Supports Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts in Asheville


Cabrini Mission Foundation is committed to supporting those who have been burdened by catastrophic natural disasters. Following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the foundation is partnering with Sisters of Mercy of the Americas to help target one of the most affected areas in the southeast. Located in the Asheville, NC area, the Sisters will respond directly to life-saving needs including food, water and shelter.

North Carolina has seen historic damage as the Category 4 hurricane has left mud- filled roads, houses demolished, cellular lines down, and taken the lives of 130 people.

We pray that their families and loved ones receive the necessary resources needed during this difficult time.

Photo credit: Reuters

Cabrini Mission Foundation Hosts a Night in Codogno at the Annual Gala

Christiana Dell’Anna, David DeCerbo

2024 Cabrini Mission Foundation Gala

Sparkling drinks, candlelight, and laughter filled the room as attendees and Sisters enjoyed “A Night in Codogno.” Held on Friday, October 11th at the Metropolitan Club in New York City, the event was inspired by the rustic charm of Codogno, Italy—the town where Mother Cabrini founded Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus religious order in 1880.

The evening’s ambiance was set with beautiful vines, Italian delicacies, and lively music, immersing guests in the true spirit of Italy: family, tradition, and togetherness.

The Foundation honored two remarkable individuals: David DeCerbo, Esq. and Cristiana Dell’Anna—both of whom share stories of humble beginnings, perseverance, and inspiring success.

David DeCerbo, recipient of the Mother Cabrini Lifetime of Service Award, is a successful attorney specializing in health policy, legislation, and law. His relationship with the Missionary Sisters began almost 50 years ago, during his tenure as Vice President of Legal and Regulatory Affairs at Cabrini Medical Center on 19th Street in Manhattan. Continuing to provide legal services to the Missionary Sisters throughout the years, he went on to make partner at a firm that is Nixon Peabody today. Notably, David filed the paperwork to establish the Cabrini Mission Foundation and has been a dedicated member of our board since its inception 26 years ago.

The Spirit of Cabrini Award was presented to Cristiana Dell’Anna, an exceptionally talented actress whose career has taken her from the streets of Naples to the stages of London and the big screen. Cristiana’s portrayal of Mother Cabrini in the film Cabrini has brought her recognition, including being named Best European Actress at the Septimus Awards. Cristiana made her big screen debut in the psychological thriller Third Contact and she has also played popular roles in the Italian soap opera Un posto al sole, as Patrizia, in the second season of Gomorra as well as in the 2022 Netflix Movie – “Toscana.”

As the night drew to a close, guests left with full hearts and satisfied appetites, just as one might after a true evening in Codogno.

Cabrini Mission Foundation names John Leguizamo as Ambassador

The Cabrini Mission Foundation — which continues the legacy of the religious order founded by St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in 1880 — has named Emmy Award-winning actor, producer and activist John Leguizamo an ambassador for the foundation.

Jay Dixit photo/Wikimedia Commons

“With his remarkable talent, commitment to social justice, and drive to create positive change, John embodies the spirit of the mission to serve and empower communities in need,” the New York-based foundation said in a June 11 announcement.

The foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Guadalupe Province, the religious order founded by St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the patron saint of immigrants.

The announcement said that Leguizamo, who has appeared in more than 100 films and is a frequent star on the Broadway stage, “will use his voice and influence to raise awareness about the foundation’s essential work in immigration, education, healthcare, social services and pastoral care, especially among the most vulnerable and marginalized communities.”

“John Leguizamo’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life makes him an ideal partner for our mission,” said Sr. Pietrina Raccuglia, MSC who is the chairwoman of the foundation’s board of directors. “We’re honored to welcome John aboard and eagerly anticipate collaborating with him to effect meaningful change.”

For his part, the Colombia-born actor said, “My mother has long been connected to the Missionary Sisters, and I have always respected St. Frances Xavier Cabrini’s legacy here in New York City. The Foundation is a wonderful organization continuing Mother Cabrini’s work, and I am honored to be associated with them.”

Cabrini Mission Foundation Hosts Private Screening of Cabrini Movie


Many laughs, cheers, and tears, were shared as Missionary Sisters and friends joined Cabrini Mission Foundation for a private screening of the Cabrini movie on Thursday, March 7th at the Union Square Regal Theatre in New York City.

Attendees enjoyed artisanal pizza and salads provided by La Lanterna di Vittorio as everyone shared their anticipation for the movie. With fresh popcorn in-hand, viewers got to witness the story of Mother Cabrini on the silver screen. A sneak peak of Andrea and Virginia Boccelli’s new song, “Dare to Be” was shown at the end of the movie.

As the curtains closed on the evening’s festivities, attendees left with hearts full of inspiration and gratitude, eager to share the transformative experience of the Cabrini movie with others. With the movie now released to the public, the opportunity to follow in her footsteps awaits all who are moved.

We are grateful to everyone who volunteered, donated, and made the night a special event.

The Cabrini movie is out now! Click the link here to find theatres and movie times near you: https://www.angel.com/movies/cabrini

Education of the Heart: Cabrini Mission Foundation Launches Education Grant

Embracing Mother Cabrini’s ‘Education of the Heart’ principle, t he Cabrini Mission Foundation has launched its 2024 education grant for students across New York. The primary objectives of the grant are to support faith-based Catholic education in New York, provide financial assistance to students, and promote academic achievement and community engagement.

Through this initiative, the Cabrini Mission Foundation aims to empower students with the values and skills necessary to become compassionate leaders who positively impact their communities and the world at large.

Application details and can be found on the Cabrini Mission Foundation website. Students will need to complete the application form as well as write an essay, all submissions are reviewed internally. The schools of students selected to receive a grant will receive a check in the student’s name that will be applied to their tuition bill for their current academic school year. ~ submitted by Caitlin Della Rocca, Cabrini Mission Foundation

For application information please visit:

Empowering New York School Children

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