As the loss of Temporary Protected Status has increased the needs of many Haitian families in Springfield, Ohio, the Sisters of Charity Immigration and Ending Human Trafficking Justice Circle coordinated a food collection for the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Springfield. Sisters, Associates and friends of the Community generously donated food, money and gift cards. Volunteers then packed and delivered boxes to St. Vincent de Paul for distribution to families in need. We continue to pray for those families experiencing loss, fear and uncertainty, and for the staff and volunteers of St. Vincent de Paul and Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio who accompany and support them.

On Sunday, Aug. 30, a small group of Sisters of Charity joined about 500 others in Springfield, Ohio, for the “Love Thy Neighbor, Forward Together” potluck and public witness in solidarity with the Haitian community. Faith leaders, immigration advocates, Haitian residents and supporters gathered outside Springfield City Hall for a communal meal, followed by prayer, reflections, singing and a march around City Hall seven times, in the tradition of the Jericho Walk. Participants lifted their voices in support of the Haitian community and called for compassion, dignity and change. The afternoon continued with liturgy at nearby St. Raphael Parish, home to many Haitian parishioners. Associates Mary Ellen Williams and Liz Maxwell also traveled from Cincinnati to join the liturgy.

Sister of Charity of Cincinnati Karina Montes Ayala professed First Vows during a joyful ceremony Aug. 29, 2026, in the Immaculate Conception Chapel at the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse. During the liturgy, Sister Karina committed herself for three years to the service of God, God’s people, and all of Creation as a member of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. In both Spanish and English, she promised “to live in community and vow to God poverty, consecrated celibacy and obedience according to the Constitutions of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.” Read more.

The Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati will participate in LCWR’s 100 Days of Prayer, Fasting and Advocacy on Friday, Aug. 28, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s birthday. In the days surrounding her birthday, Sisters and Associates are encouraged to participate in postcard-writing gatherings as part of Network’s See. Love. Vote. initiative, which encourages voters to participate in the midterm elections. On Aug. 28, the Community will receive a special reflection on St. Elizabeth Ann Seton as a prayer resource. Sisters and Associates are also invited that day to fast from despair, hate, overindulgence and pride while embracing the values of the Family of Charity: simplicity, humility, and charity.