Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Bringing Christ's love to the world

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Cabrini of Westchester Honors its Long-Term Service Employees

On November 14th, Cabrini of Westchester held the annual Employee Service Awards ceremony followed by a luncheon in honor of forty-four outstanding employees who were celebrating five, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five, thirty, thirty-five and even forty-five years of service to the organization.

The ceremony was held in St. Cabrini’s Chapel and Christina Tiesi, Pastoral Care Associate, bestowed blessings on all of the honorees. In her remarks, Bonnie Burke, Chief Executive Officer and Administrator, said, “Our mission is rooted in compassion, care, and community, and today we recognize the vital contribution of our staff across all departments. Every member of our team plays a crucial role in enhancing the lives of the residents. Your commitment ensures the residents receive the highest level of care and dignity. A heartfelt thank you to each of you for your years of service, unwavering commitment, professionalism, kindness and love you put into your work throughout the years. I extend full gratitude to all of you and congratulations!”

Each of the awardees received a pin with a precious stone reflective of their years of service to Cabrini of Westchester. Account continues on following page.

Recipients were invited to participate in a luncheon in recognition of the hard work and dedication to the mission accomplished by all Cabrini of Westchester Employees each and every day of the year!

Multi-day Celebrations Mark the Feast Day at NY Shrine

What a week! St. Frances Cabrini Shrine in New York hosted seven Feast celebrations over four days.

On November 13th we greeted youth from four Catholic schools and in the evening held the Canonization Concert, a re-creation of the Gregorian chant and other music used at Mother Cabrini’s canonization ceremony.

Saturday included Mass in Italian (with a surprise marriage proposal afterwards!) and a Mass for the Filipino community. Sunday dawned with beautiful weather and a full chapel for the English Mass. Msgr. Roger Landry, the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States, celebrated. His tremendously inspiring homily can be heard here.

As the English Mass ended a busload of Ugandans arrived from Massachusetts. Warm smiles, beautiful harmonies, and huge pots of food lit up the afternoon. While they were finishing their meal in the retreat room a joyous Mass in Spanish began in the chapel, celebrated by Bishop Edmund Whalen.

All in all it was a spectacular few days.

Blessings to all!

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Sandi Schreier, Director of Social Work at Cabrini of Westchester, was presented with the 2026 Professional of the Year Award from LeadingAge New York, part of a national association of 5,500 not-for-profit organizations. Ms. Schreier graciously accepted the award from Kristen Meyers, Chief Operating Officer of LeadingAge New York, on November 13, 2025 at a celebration held in her honor. While presenting the award, Ms. Meyers stated “This award honors a long-term care, housing and services professional for their contributions to the well-being of the elderly or chronically ill in his or her community. It is open to professionals who demonstrate civic involvement as well as professional dedication, accomplishment and field expertise. I’m very pleased to present this award to Sandi on behalf of LeadingAge New York.”

. Meyers shared that the nomination included comments from several of Ms. Schreier’s peers and truly got to the heart of why she is such a deserving recipient of this award. In his nomination letter, Fr. Ronald Galt, Vice President of Mission and Pastoral Care wrote: “she is without a doubt one of the most dedicated, hardworking and accomplished leaders I have had the pleasure to work with in my career. She is deeply respected and admired by her fellow department leaders, her own staff, as well as other interdisciplinary staff, our volunteers and our residents.”

Another peer, David Leyden, Director of Rehabilitation, wrote, “I am blessed to have a colleague who not only supports and encourages me, but also challenges me in a way that makes me see things from a different perspective.”

At the reception, Bonita Burke, Chief Executive Officer and Administrator stated, “Sandi, you are someone who truly knows compassion, integrity and dedication and this award could not have gone to a better person.” Congratulations Sandi!
~ submitted by Susan Herceg, Director of Development and PR, Cabrini of Westchester

100 + Years of Life x 7 = Cause for Celebration

 

On Monday, November 10th, Cabrini of Westchester held a festive celebration honoring its centenarians, 7 special women who are celebrating milestone birthdays this year. The esteemed honorees are: Gloria Wagner, 100; Jacquelin Beckerich, 102; Martha Macugowski, 100; Alessandra Dileo, 101; Cecile Rosenfeld, 100; Molly Neilson, 102 and Gloria Petrillo, 100. Story continues on next page.

Jessica Garcia-Robinson, Assistant Administrator addressed the gathering of residents, staff members, family and friends: “On behalf of Cabrini’s Administrative team, it is with great joy, deep respect and heartfelt gratitude that I welcome you all to this extraordinary occasion. Today we are gathered not just to honor these 7 remarkable women, but to recognize their lives through a century of change, challenge, triumph and transformation.” Addressing the centenarians, she said, “You are living treasures. Each of you has witnessed history in the making and in your own unique way, you have helped shape the world we live in and we are truly grateful for that. We are humbled to be in your presence today.”

A blessing was offered by resident, Fr. Michael Banks, followed by a presentation from special guest, New York State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. Senator Stewart-Cousins bestowed framed resolutions to each centenarian and said, “I am so happy to be here to celebrate each centenarian and to give you official proclamations from the New York State Senate because we honor your lives and the value that you have brought to all of us, your communities and your families. I wish you continued health, love, care and many more happy and healthy birthdays.”

Día de los Muertos

As November approaches, we begin to think about our deceased family, friends and loved ones in a special way. On October 29th, some of the clients from Cabrini Immigrant Services, (CIS) Dobbs Ferry, NY, shared their celebration of Día de los Muertos, (the Day of the Dead), with the residents at St. Cabrini Nursing Home.

A beautiful altar was created with love and reverence in the lobby of the nursing home. Each element had great significance. In Mexico and Latin America, it is customary to build an altar to remember the dead. Our CIS clients are from Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Peru and Venezuela. Many of our clients cannot go to their countries to celebrate with their own families therefore they are appreciative to celebrate with the ‘Cabrini Family.’

Our clients prayed and spoke in Spanish and English about what Día de los Muertos means to them. Two beautiful songs were performed. One song, La Llorona, is about a mother who is crying for her children who drowned. The other, Remember Me, from the movie Coco, reminds us that if even if a person is no longer with us, they are always in our hearts.

A CIS client carrying the Book of the Dead led a procession with luminaria bags lighting the way. People shared the meaning of the items gracing the altar. It was an emotional time of remembering deceased family and friends by writing their names on cards and placing them on the altar to be remembered in our prayers.

A special thank you to Bonnie Burke, CEO/Nursing Home Administrator at St. Cabrini Nursing Home and Fr. Ron Galt, Vice President for Mission Integration and Pastoral Care, for inviting us to celebrate such a meaningful time at the nursing home. ~submitted by: Lorraine Campanelli, Director, CIS-DF

 

 

A Prayer for Peace: An Interfaith Gathering During Pastoral Care Week

In recognition of Pastoral Care Week, which took place from October 19–25, 2025, Cabrini of Westchester hosted an Interfaith Prayer Service centered on a shared theme of peace. Held on October 23rd in the Cabrini Chapel, the service brought together residents, staff, family members, and guests for a time of reflection and collective prayer.

Representatives from various faith traditions offered prayers, readings, songs and blessings, each expressing the common wish for harmony, compassion, and understanding. Organized by Fr. Ron Galt, Cabrini of Westchester’s Vice President for Pastoral Care and Mission, the service provided an opportunity for the Cabrini community to celebrate the shared values of hope, kindness, and respect that guide daily life within the home.

Participants expressed gratitude for the chance to come together in mutual support and understanding, not only honoring the diverse spiritual needs of all residents and staff, but reminding us that peace is not only a prayer, but also a daily practice of kindness and respect toward one another.

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.

Renewal of Vows on Canonization Anniversary

On Monday, July 7, 2025, Cabrini of Westchester celebrated the 79th Anniversary of the canonization of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. During a special Mass in the Cabrini Chapel, some of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus who reside in the nursing home renewed their vows in front of all who gathered. Live music was provided and a blessing was bestowed on all by Fr. Ron Galt, Vice President of Pastoral Care and Mission. After the Mass, a festive luncheon, prepared by Cabrini’s Food Service Department, was held in the Board Room for the Sisters.

A wonderful day was had by all! Please keep the Missionary Sisters in your prayers this day always as they serve the people of God.

Cabrini of Westchester’s 26th Annual Sharing in Mission Dinner Was a Great Success!

Cabrini of Westchester recognized several deserving honorees at its 26th Annual Sharing in Mission Dinner. The theme for the event, which was held on May 21, 2025, at the beautiful Tappan Hill Estates in Tarrytown, NY was “An Evening in Spring.”

This year’s honorees included Christopher J. McCarthy, Senior Consultant, PKF O’Connor Davies; Paul Mourning, Partner, Crowell & Moring LLP; and Lorraine Campanelli, Director, Cabrini Immigrant Services of Dobbs Ferry, NY. The honorees were chosen because they reflect the values that Cabrini of Westchester as an organization cherishes: compassion, excellence, commitment and service. Attendees were delighted to dine amidst beautiful spring flowers and décor. Colorful succulent plants were given to all that attended.

We are truly grateful to the honorees, sponsors, donors and the 2025 Sharing in Mission Dinner Event Committee for making the evening such a wonderful success. Thanks to their efforts, the event raised approximately $200,000 to benefit Cabrini of Westchester!

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