Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
February 6, 2002
Mass opens centennial celebration of saint's arrival in state
100th anniversary of Mother Cabrini's, nuns' coming to Colorado honored
By Edna Fiore
The first of a series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary of Mother Francesca Cabrini's arrival in Colorado was a Mass celebrated by Father John Lager, O.F.M. Cap., at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Jan. 27. The nave and chancel of Mount Carmel remain unchanged from the time that Mother Cabrini herself worshipped there.
Opening remarks by Sister Bernadette Casciano, M.S.C., administrator of Mother Cabrini Shrine, outlined Mother Cabrini's ministry in Colorado and were highlighted by her reading a proclamation declaring the Liturgy as the inaugural event for the centennial anniversary of the saint's and her nuns' arrivals to the state.
Sister Casciano also acknowledged the progress of the Italian immigrants Mother Cabrini served, noting they began as humble laborers and became prominent members of business and the professions, especially in the fields of arts and education. She drew attention to Mother Cabrini's dedication to immigrants of all nationalities and her designation by Pope Pius XII on Sept. 8, 1950, as heavenly patroness of immigrants.
Father Lager's homily emphasized the light shed by Mother Cabrini and by all Christians in their example to this troubled world as the Cabrini mission in Colorado continues into a second century of service.
Placed before the altar as symbols of Mother Cabrini's life and work were a globe of the earth, representing Mother Cabrini's "too small a world"; a little paper boat filled with violets, recalling her childhood dreams of missionary service; a picture of the Sacred Heart, symbolizing her devotion to Christ; a stack of books representing her dedication to education; and a copy of "Cabrinian Colorado Missions" by Mother Ignatius Miceli.
Missioner Michael Ramos and present-day representatives of the saint's Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart — Mother Ignatius Miceli, Sister Ilaria Provero and Sister Theresa Shih — processed up the center aisle and were seated in the front of the church.
A vocal and instrumental ensemble from Spirit of Christ Parish enhanced the service.
Traditional Italian pastries provided by the friends and parishioners of Mount Carmel highlighted the reception in the parish hall after the Mass.
Upcoming anniversary events include:
•February — Thank you to friends and volunteers of Cabrini Shrine
•March 28-31 — Holy Week/Easter services at Cabrini Shrine
•July 12 — Dinner/dance gala in honor of Mother Cabrini
•July 13-14 — Annual pilgrimage to Cabrini Shrine •Nov. 24 — Closing liturgy at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception with Archbishop Charles Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
•Other dates and events will be announced.
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