On September 9, 2023, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary in the Western American Area celebrated a century of unwavering faith, service, and dedication to God’s people in California and Mexico.
Throughout September 2022 to September 2023, an array of celebratory events and initiatives unfolded, showcasing a century of devotion.
The festivities began with a warm welcome by Sister Kathleen Kelemen, the Area co-leader, and a heartfelt toast by Byron Brizuela, leading to a joyous reception attended by over 300 guests. The celebration was graced by the presence of friends, collaborators and international members of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, including Sister Margaret Fielding, the Institute Leader from Ireland, and Institute Councilors Sisters Pare’ Moreira from Brazil, Ana Luisa Pinto from Portugal, and Sipiwe Phiri from Zambia. Additionally, Sister Roz Blanchet, Eastern American Area Leader from New York, and Sisters Fidelia Espin, Virginia Garza, and Julia Trejo from Mexico joined in the festivities, making the event a truly global gathering.
The community expressed deep gratitude for the rich history of service, extending from California to Mexico, North Carolina, and Honduras. The chosen theme, inspired by Pope Francis, “Looking at the past with gratitude, living the present with passion, and embracing the future with hope,” has guided their reflections throughout the year.
The 100th Anniversary Committee orchestrated an exhibit that visually narrated the community’s journey, from its humble beginnings on 28th Street in Los Angeles to its vibrant present of faith, zeal, collaboration, risk-taking.
As the 100th Anniversary festivities come to a close, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Western American Area, embraces the future with renewed hope, guided by their deep faith and the enduring legacy of a century of service and devotion.
The exhibition will remain open to the public from September 10th to mid-October. For additional information, please visit the RSHM website at www.rshm.org.
