To commemorate the 200th anniversary of Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska’s birth, Felician Sisters across Our Lady of Hope Province held tree-planting ceremonies at each large convent. Dogwood trees were planted as living symbols of her legacy, accompanied by memorial plaques to mark the occasion. In gratitude for their employees, each convent also donated to a local charity chosen by their staff. While each ceremony uniquely reflected the spirit of its local community, all were united in joyful remembrance and gratitude.
In Beaver Falls, PA, the celebration began in the Our Lady of Hope Provincial House chapel with hymns and readings, followed by a blessing of a dogwood tree planted in the front garden. A donation was also made to the Women’s Shelter of Beaver, chosen by employees. Seeds from a tree Blessed Mary Angela once planted in Kraków were gifted to all in attendance, reminding everyone of the growth still to come.
At the Immaculate Heart of Mary Convent in Buffalo, NY, sisters and staff gathered in the courtyard for a ceremony. As the pink dogwood tree was planted and blessed, the community sang “Abundant Life.” In honor of the day, a donation was made to the Sister Josette Food Pantry. The celebration continued with Evening Prayer and a shared meal honoring May birthday and feast day celebrants.
In Enfield, CT, at the Our Lady of the Angels Convent, the sisters’ months of personal prayers and reflections culminated in a festive Mass, tree planting, and a donation to Loaves and Fishes to support local families. A dogwood tree and commemorative plaque now stand in front of the chapel, honoring both Blessed Mary Angela and their employees.
At Immaculate Conception Convent in Lodi, NJ, the sisters gathered after Mass for a prayer service, followed by the blessing of a tree planted near the IMPACT building. Their celebration also included a gift to the local food pantry at St. Joseph Parish, echoing Blessed Mary Angela’s lifelong response to the needs of her time.
In Mississauga, ON, a flowering dogwood was planted in the patio garden of the Holy Name of Mary Convent. The sunshine and prayers warmed the morning as the sisters reflected on Blessed Mary Angela’s devotion to tending to the garden at her convent. A donation was made in honor of the employees to support the new Hope House at St. Felix Centre.
The Mother of Good Counsel Convent in Chicago, IL hosted a beautiful outdoor ceremony. Despite a storm the night before, the newly planted tree stood strong, a fitting tribute to the resilience of Blessed Mary Angela’s legacy. A picnic lunch brought everyone together in celebration. In honor of the day, a donation was made to The Well of Mercy, selected by the employees.
In Livonia, MI, the day began with prayers and Mass at the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Convent and ended with a garden ceremony and joyful tree planting. Inside, a birthday tree decorated with floral ornaments and personal notes offered another layer of tribute. Staff chose the Capuchin Soup Kitchen as the recipient of their donation. A special meal honored the day and the woman who continues to inspire so many.
At the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Convent in Coraopolis, PA, sisters and staff gathered as the dogwood tree and commemorative plaque were dedicated with prayer and gratitude. This was followed by a luncheon and sweet treats to celebrate the day and the faithful service of the local team. Donations were made to both the Neville Island Volunteer Fire Department and Refuge for Women in Pittsburgh.
Across the province, the simple act of planting a tree became a powerful expression of our ongoing mission. It also serves as a reminder that Blessed Mary Angela watches over us and intercedes for us as we continue her work of cooperating with Christ in the spiritual renewal of the world.
