Sr. Jacinta Fernandes
Sr. Jacinta has often been referred to as the Mother Teresa of Elizabeth, and that is a fitting comparison. Her love and compassion for everyone really means everyone. She has shown us how to love one another, that we are all one people, and that all are to be welcomed with dignity and compassion.
She has been a strong advocate for justice. There were many occasions when she spoke up for the rights of tenants, immigrants, and the homeless, and others when she spoke out against police brutality, environmental injustice, war, and violence.
During her years as Director at St. Joseph’s, Sr. Jacinta remained part of her Benedictine Community. The Emmanuel Monastery in Lutherville, Maryland is a cornerstone of our center, keeping St. Joseph’s in their daily prayers and “sharing” Sr. Jacinta with us for all of those years. Sr. Jacinta returned to live with her community when she stepped down from her role as Director in 2017.
Sr. Jacinta is personally responsible for improving the lives of thousands of people. This includes those who have come to St. Joseph’s in need of services, as well as those with a need to serve. By creating an organization that connects communities and nourishes each other, we all benefit from mutual sharing and learning. Her visionary leadership and example have made an incredibly positive impact not only on our community but also our world. Sr. Jacinta, on behalf of everyone with whom you have shared your many gifts, we thank you and wish you a very special day! We dedicate our services on February 10, 2026 to Sr. Jacinta.
To read more about Sr. Jacinta and her incredible history, please read this pdf extract from an nj.com article.
She has been a strong advocate for justice. There were many occasions when she spoke up for the rights of tenants, immigrants, and the homeless, and others when she spoke out against police brutality, environmental injustice, war, and violence.
During her years as Director at St. Joseph’s, Sr. Jacinta remained part of her Benedictine Community. The Emmanuel Monastery in Lutherville, Maryland is a cornerstone of our center, keeping St. Joseph’s in their daily prayers and “sharing” Sr. Jacinta with us for all of those years. Sr. Jacinta returned to live with her community when she stepped down from her role as Director in 2017.
Sr. Jacinta is personally responsible for improving the lives of thousands of people. This includes those who have come to St. Joseph’s in need of services, as well as those with a need to serve. By creating an organization that connects communities and nourishes each other, we all benefit from mutual sharing and learning. Her visionary leadership and example have made an incredibly positive impact not only on our community but also our world. Sr. Jacinta, on behalf of everyone with whom you have shared your many gifts, we thank you and wish you a very special day! We dedicate our services on February 10, 2026 to Sr. Jacinta.
To read more about Sr. Jacinta and her incredible history, please read this pdf extract from an nj.com article.