St. Frances Xavier Cabrini: Patroness Saint of Scalabrinians in Australia and Asia

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini (1850–1917), an Italian-American Roman Catholic nun, is recognized as the patroness of immigrants. Known for her exceptional dedication to those marginalized and in need, she founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (MSSH), a congregation focused on supporting immigrants, education, and social services. In 1957, the Scalabrinians named their new Province in Australia and Asia after her, choosing her as their patroness saint.

Early Life and Vocation

Frances Cabrini was born on July 15, 1850, in Sant'Angelo Lodigiano, Italy, to a poor but devout family. She entered the religious life at the age of 18, initially as a teacher, and later felt a strong call to found a religious congregation that would serve the immigrant population in the United States. Despite facing health challenges and being initially rejected by several religious communities due to her frail health, she was determined to follow her vocation.

Founding the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart

In 1880, Cabrini founded the congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus with the mission of supporting Italian immigrants, especially in the United States. She traveled to America in 1889, where she became well-known for her unwavering dedication to the immigrant community, founding schools, hospitals, and orphanages, and providing essential education and pastoral care to Italian immigrants.

Contributions and Legacy

Mother Cabrini founded 67 institutions, including schools, hospitals, and orphanages, across the United States, South America, Europe, and Asia. Despite many obstacles, including financial challenges and cultural barriers, she remained steadfast in her mission, focusing on the welfare of immigrants whom she believed had been neglected by society and the Church. She became a U.S. citizen in 1909 and, in 1946, was the first American citizen canonized by the Catholic Church.

Canonization and Patronage

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini died on December 22, 1917, and was canonized by Pope Pius XII on July 7, 1946. She is the patroness of immigrants, and her feast day is celebrated on November 13. Her legacy continues through the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart, which remains active in various ministries worldwide, continuing her mission of service, education, and care for those in need.

Patroness Saint of Scalabrinians in Australia and Asia

On October 7, 1957, the Scalabrinian Missionaries established a new Province in Australia under St. Frances Cabrini's patronage, inspired by her example of service and dedication to immigrants. In 1982, the Province expanded its mission into Asia with its first mission in Manila, Philippines. Over the years, their presence grew in other countries: Taiwan (1994), Indonesia (2002), Japan (2003), and Vietnam (2005).

With St. Cabrini as their guiding patron, Scalabrinian missionaries in Australia and Asia strive to embody her spirit of love, hope, and service to migrants, refugees, and seafarers, carrying forward the legacy of their founder, St. John Baptist Scalabrini.

Happy Feast Day!

St. Cabrini - pray for us!

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