100th Anniversary Jubilee
Celebrating 100 Years of Faith, Justice, and Service
“The spirit we have is the spirit we shall leave to those who come after us.”
– Sr. Frederica Horvath, Foundress
1926–2026
For one hundred years, the Sisters of Social Service have answered God’s call by walking alongside those living on the margins of society. Since arriving in Los Angeles in 1926, the Sisters have dedicated their lives to promoting peace, justice, human dignity, and compassionate service—transforming lives while addressing the root causes of poverty, inequality, and injustice.
As we celebrate our Centennial Jubilee, we give thanks for a remarkable legacy of faith-filled leadership inspired by the Holy Spirit and rooted in Benedictine spirituality. From serving newly arrived immigrant families in downtown Los Angeles to advocating for legislative reform, from educating children and strengthening families to providing spiritual care and retreat ministry, the Sisters have continually responded wherever the need has been greatest.
Over the past century, the Sisters have established ministries that continue to touch thousands of lives, including Camp Mariastella, Regis House Community Center, Holy Spirit Retreat Center, and ministries extending throughout Mexico, Taiwan, the Philippines, Africa, and beyond. Throughout times of war, economic hardship, and social change, their commitment has remained steadfast: to accompany those in need with compassion while working to transform the systems that create injustice. The Centennial Jubilee is more than a celebration of our first century—it is a moment of gratitude, reflection, and renewal. As we honor the remarkable women whose faith and vision have shaped generations of ministry, we also look ahead with hope, trusting that the Holy Spirit continues to call us forward. We invite you to celebrate this historic milestone with us as together we begin our second century of faith, service, and compassion.
100th Anniversary Prayer
Loving God,
We give you thanks for 100 years of grace, service, and mission as a Community of the Sisters of Social Service.
Bless all who have gone before us—the foundresses, sisters, associates, partners, and friends—whose faith, courage, and generosity helped shape our community and its mission.
As we enter our next century, let your flame burn brightly within us. Make us your witnesses of hope and peace, your vessels of justice, your bearers of love made real.
Spirit of Wisdom, carry us where hearts are broken. Spirit of Fire, renew our passion to serve.
Spirit of Hope, guide us into the future with gratitude and trust.
For all you have done, for all you are doing, and for all that is yet to come—Holy Spirit, we praise you.
Amen.