A Woven Tapestry: Liturgy Celebrates 175 Years in California
April 30, 2026
Goodness Blooms, indeed! On Friday, April 17, 2026, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in downtown San José, California, was the stunning venue for an uplifting, hopeful celebration of the 175th anniversary. The Eucharistic Liturgy was generously co-hosted by Notre Dame High School, San José (NDSJ) and celebrated by Bishop Oscar Cantú.
The day’s events beautifully launched the anniversary activities, highlighting the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur’s transformational educational and social justice ministry in California. More than 80 guests, including Sisters, staff, friends and nearly 650 students filled the pews of the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph. Many more joined the celebration via livestream.
Sister Kathryn Keenan, SNDdeN, a member of the U.S. East-West Province Leadership Team, joined NDSJ Head of School Ashley Rae Mathis to offer heartfelt and uplifting remarks. Together, they reflected on the deeply intertwined missions of their organizations and the extraordinary legacy of the pioneering Sisters who journeyed to California in 1851.
Of special note was the Congressional Record presentation detailing the significant anniversary from U.S. Representative Samuel Liccardo’s (CA) office. Concluding the opening remarks, Sister Maureen Hilliard, SNDdeN, a 70-year Jubilarian in 2026, offered a moving and prayerful call to worship, honoring how Julie Billiart’s vision of a global mission reached San José. NDSJ students played an inspiring and integral role throughout the Liturgy, including offering graceful musical performances and a rousing rendition of the Alma Mater. In a touching moment of intergenerational connection, they presented colorful sunflower bouquets to each Sister in attendance as the Mass concluded.
Guests later gathered for a joy-filled reception at the NDSJ campus. Dancing and singing added to a palpable spirit of community, hope and deep gratitude for the Sisters and the legacy that continues to bloom with Goodness! Click here to see the Congressional Record honor from Representative Liccardo.
Be sure to mark your calendar for a luncheon event in Foster City on Sunday, October 4, 2026, celebrating 175 years Woven Together in God’s Goodness.
