Photo by Alan M. Dumoff
Members of the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Infant Jesus gather for the start of their year-long celebration of their 50 years of presence in the United States on March 27 at Auletto’s Catering in Almonesson. Pictured are (from left) Sister Pepita Ontong, Sister Gloria Louise Levari, Sister Jerilyn Einstein, Sister Dianna Higgins, Sister Clare Sabini, Sister Marilu’ Trucios, Sister Michele Di Gregorio, Sister Angela Pia Camillotti, Sister Arlene Magnaye, Sister Rosaria Sillitti, Sister Angela D’Alessandro, Sister Vilma Butron and Sister Maria Di Rosa.
The Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Infant Jesus began their year-long celebration of their 50 years of presence in the United States with their annual dinner dance on March 27 at Auletto’s Catering in Almonesson.
Many friends, benefactors and parish members attended.
The dance was preceded by a Eucharistic liturgy at St. Margaret Church in Woodbury Heights celebrated by Father Joseph Szolack and concelebrated by many priests with whom the sisters have served over the years.
The choir of Paul VI High School in Haddon Township, under the direction of Agnes Marchione, provided music, leading all in song.
Responding to the invitation of Archbishop Celestine J. Damiano, the sisters arrived from Italy to begin their mission in September 1961, serving the people of Minotola, East Camden and Woodbury Heights.
The Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Infant Jesus continue to spread their love for Jesus and for their neighbor in the various parishes and schools in which they serve in the dioceses of Camden and Trenton.