As the United States commemorates its 250th anniversary, the Dominican Sisters Conference is proud to partner with Dominican Congregations across the country in presenting 250 Sisters Who Shaped the USA. This special initiative celebrates the lives, ministries, and enduring contributions of Dominican Sisters whose faith, courage, and commitment have helped shape our nation and continue to inspire future generations.

The women we will feature have played a role in our country’s story since the first group of nine women said ‘yes’ to God and followed their calling to Dominican Life in February 1822.From that first group of sisters in Kentucky, to New York, California, and many places in-between, join us on our journey to honor the past and present of Dominican Sisters in the United States.

On this 250th Anniversary of the Founding of the United States of America,

We, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, affirm our commitment to:

Upholding the inherent right to life of every human being and the dignity of each person

● Embracing the gospel call to love, welcome, and care for all people, especially those who are most vulnerable

● Welcoming immigrants and providing care and assistance to all who reside in our nation, while advocating for comprehensive immigration reform.

● Standing against violence in all its forms

● Dismantling racism in all its manifestations

LCWR Letter to Congress

The following is the text of the letter that will be sent to members of the US Congress with a copy of the LCWR Declaration of Commitment

June 25, 2026

Dear Senator/Representative:

The Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) represents nearly 300 congregations of Catholic sisters across the United States. Since 1727, we have educated generations of children, cared for the sick, fed and housed those most vulnerable, advocated for human dignity, and upheld the rights to vote, to work, and to access the fundamental freedoms and protections that sustain a just society.

Celebrate Pope Leo XIV’s 71st Birthday! Join the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose for a joyful Zoom gathering honoring the first American Pope. We’ll share photos from his life on the South Side of Chicago and his ministry as missionary, Bishop, Cardinal, and Pope. Guests are invited to participate by holding up a photo or offering a brief birthday message. We will conclude by singing Happy Birthday—with verses in several languages—and raising a cupcake or small treat with a candle. Please register to receive the Zoom link.