Sisters Unite in Prayer for Immigrants
On March 13, — the Friday morning of Catholic Sisters Week 2026 (March 8-14) — women religious from throughout our region raised their voices in unity to advocate for compassion, dignity and respect for all, in particular to those who are immigrants.
We gathered outside the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office on Pittsburgh's Southside for a special prayer vigil in memory of all of those who have died in ICE custody. Our collective prayer action reflects our continuing story of support for immigrants and their fair and just treatment. For, we all are created in the image of God.
A Prayer for Justice
Blessed are You, Lord God, King of all creation. Through Your goodness, we live in this land that You have so richly blessed. Help us always to recognize our Blessings come from You and remind us to share them with others, especially those who come to us today from other lands. Help us to be generous, just, and welcoming, as You have been and are generous to us.
— Justice for Immigrants
Now is Time
to Pray & Act
Catholic Sisters across Western Pennsylvania have been called to action by their faith to minister to and on behalf of immigrants and refugees, especially in our country’s current political climate. God’s people — no matter their circumstances — are always in our prayers. Right now, we must pair prayer with urgent action and impress upon you to do the same. Christians cannot sit by idly as the poor and vulnerable are targeted. We must be a voice for migrants and advocate for merciful, common-sense immigration policies that align with our faith.
Read our full statement and access resources here.
Recommended Reading
Choosing Nonviolence as Gospel Witness
In Pittsburgh, Pro-Immigrant Interfaith Efforts Emerge Amid Concerns About ICE
A Response from the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) to These Times
USCCB: Human Dignity is Not Dependent on a Person’s Citizenship or Immigration Status
Equipped to Act: Understanding Immigration in Uncertain Times
‘Millvale Franciscans’ Elect New Leadership Team
July 28, 2025 — During their Chapter Elections this summer, the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities — often referred to in the Pittsburgh area as the “Millvale Franciscans” for the location of their former motherhouse — welcomed a new leadership team. Sister Rita Marie Fritzen was elected general minister, and Sister Ann Kenyon and Amy Williams were elected as general councilors. Sister Donna McGartland returns as a general councilor, and Sister Ann Bremmer becomes the new assistant general minister. They will be installed on September 13, at Immaculate Conception Church in Fayetteville, N.Y. The congregation offers many thanks to the members of its outgoing leadership team as they complete their term.
