Angel Studios’ upcoming film, Cabrini, weaves a compelling narrative around the true story of an Italian nun on a divine mission to advocate for impoverished children in New York’s slums. While the film explores various aspects of Cabrini’s journey, its core essence lies in the unwavering faith that fueled her determination and resilience.
This film emphasizes the triumphs and challenges Cabrini faced on a daily basis, not only from politicians but from leaders within her own Catholic religion. Her historic 1889 voyage to America marked the first female-led mission in the history of the Catholic church. This high stakes mission meant that everyone, including Pope Leo XIII himself, was looking to her as proof of what women of faith could accomplish.
Born prematurely in Italy in 1850, Cabrini had poor health from a young age and wasn’t expected to live a long life. As a result, she was prohibited from joining the Daughters of the Sacred Heart as a religious sister, which had been her lifelong goal. Undeterred, she founded her own order just a few years later called Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Italy. It was this resolve that spurred her desire to transform the lives of Italian immigrants everywhere and to take her empire of hope worldwide. In America, Cabrini’s frail health persisted, but her faith in God empowered her to transcend her physical limitations. Her faith empowered her to not indulge her weakness, but to serve her purpose to better the lives of children everywhere. Despite every reason to give up—from experiencing bigotry, sexism, and violence—Cabrini stands as a testament to women everywhere that when rooted in unflinching faith, miracles can abound.
The film’s release on International Women’s Day (March 8) adds a poignant layer, honoring and empowering women of faith from diverse backgrounds to find their purpose and serve fearlessly.
