American Women Saints: Francis Xavier Cabrini - Film Screening and Discussion with the Filmmakers

The Nutley Public Library is delighted to welcome back Emmy-nominated, award-winning filmmakers Marylou & Jerome Bongiorno, past recipients of ECLAP funding. This husband-and-wife duo, known for speaking at both global and local venues, will present part two of their two-part animated series which is screening on PBS stations nationally titled American Women Saints: Francis Xavier Cabrini (75 min.).

A discussion and Q&A will follow. No registration is required. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information and to view the trailer please visit nutleypubliclibrary.org/aws.

American Women Saints follows the inspiring stories of two iconic women who were the first American Catholic saints: Elizabeth Ann Seton and Frances Xavier Cabrini. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (1775-1821) founded the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph that, despite adversities, created schools and cared for the poor. Mother Seton was declared the first American-born Catholic saint. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini (1850-1917) founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus that, despite adversities, opened schools, orphanages, sanatoriums and hospitals. Mother Cabrini was declared the first American Catholic saint.

“Saints Elizabeth Ann Seton and Frances Xavier Cabrini epitomized how to use faith, passion and entrepreneurial skill to do good works for humanity as they founded orders of religious women, schools and orphanages,” said filmmaker Marylou Bongiorno. “The saints’ lives are a testament to resilience in overcoming adversity. They are powerful female role models in our contemporary world.”

This program is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts / Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts and administered by the Essex County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.