From September 5–15, 2026, the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm joyfully gathered at Saint Teresa’s Motherhouse in Germantown, New York, for their Fifteenth General Chapter.

Thirty-seven Capitulars came together in a spirit of prayer, reflection, discernment, and sisterhood. Reverend Mario Esposito, O.Carm., served as facilitator. Also present were Sister Ann McCartney, Chapter Secretary; Sister Michelle Elizabeth Nicosia and Sister Patricia Brancaccio, Secretarial Assistants; and Sister Julie McCarthy, Parliamentarian.

Throughout the Chapter, the Capitulars prayerfully considered the needs and future of the Congregation. They worked in four Commissions: the Commission on Government, Finance and Ministry; the Commission on Formation and Vocations; the Commission on Spirituality; and the Commission on Community. Each Commission presented its proposals to the Chapter body for thoughtful discussion, discernment, and voting. The days were beautifully enriched by prayer and liturgical celebrations, including the Eucharist, Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, and the Liturgy of the Hours. Personal days of prayer also provided precious opportunities for quiet reflection and listening to the movement of the Holy Spirit. The Chapter was not only a time of serious deliberation but also a wonderful opportunity for the Sisters to reconnect with one another. Sisters from near and far enjoyed sharing stories, catching up, and celebrating the gift of their Carmelite sisterhood. There were many joyful evenings filled with fun, laughter, and treasured moments together. A particularly joyful part of the Chapter came on September 14, when the Prioress General was elected. On September 15, four members of the General Council, the Secretary General, and the Treasurer General were elected. The Chapter was formally ended on September 16, 2026.

We warmly congratulate our newly elected leadership:

Mother Mary Rose Heery, O.Carm. – Prioress General

Sister Theresa Marie Pfeffer, O.Carm. – First Councilor/Vicar General

Sister M. Peter Lillian Angeline DiMaria, O.Carm. – Second Councilor

Sister Patricia Margaret Rawdon, O.Carm. – Third Councilor

Sister M. Anthony de Lourdes Veilleux, O.Carm. – Fourth Councilor

Sister Marie Richard Carmel Brusca, O.Carm. – Secretary General

Sister M. Veronica Robert Bien, O.Carm. – Treasurer General

We rejoice with these Sisters as they accept this new call to leadership and service. May the Holy Spirit guide them, Our Lady of Mount Carmel accompany them, and Venerable Mary Angeline Teresa, our Foundress,  continue to inspire them as they faithfully serve the Congregation and carry forward its mission of compassionate care and loving service to the elderly and infirm. With grateful hearts, we thank God for the many blessings of the Fifteenth General Chapter—for the prayer, wisdom, discernment, fellowship, and joy shared throughout these days.

Congratulations to our newly elected leadership, and may God bless you abundantly as you begin this new chapter of service!