Our History
The Community of the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal was founded on July 16, 1988, the feast of
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, in the Archdiocese of New York, inspired by the founding of the
Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal by a group of Capuchin Friars one year earlier.
Fr. Andrew Apostoli, CFR founded the sisters which began as a group of six women who desired to
live the religious life according to the pattern being established by the friars.
1988
"This is a work of God."
The Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal Began on July 16th
at Our Lady of the Angels Convent in the South Bronx, NY
"Fr. Andrew has been an example of such humility, spending his life for
the good of others. He has been a bright light to many—
living a Christ-centered life, imparting the faith through his
preaching and teaching, and being a most excellent
witness of joyful generosity and self-sacrificing love."
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- Mother Lucille, CFR
1995
"I never questioned it.
I knew it was the will of God."
Mother Lucille Professes Perpetual Vows on August 22, 1995,
in the South Bronx at St. Adalbert Church
The charism emerged under the servant leadership
of Mother Lucille Cutrone, CFR, who was one of the six initial members
and served as the first General Servant for 23 years.
"To Live the Gospel More Intensely"
- From the Sister's Vow Formula
"It's a joy to experience the steady growth and maturing
of our Sisters' Community. How wonderful to see many young
women, with so many gifts, inflamed with no other desire than
to "return all" to God - for His glory and for love of His
People. In imitation of Our Holy Father, Saint Francis, they
come joyfully filled with enthusiasm to give "all for Jesus"
and to live simply and radically, the Gospel life."
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-Mother Lucille, Winter Newsletter 2007