To appreciate the work and influence of the Bernardine Sisters more fully, it is necessary to acquaint oneself with and understand the character and circumstances of the period during which Mother Veronica and her companions came to this country. During the two decades of the nineteenth centurt Polish immigrants crossed the Atlantic in ever increasing numbers to free themselves from the yoke of their oppressors and to find a refuge in a land where civil and religious freedom were guaranteed to all. Eastern Pennsylvania, with its City of Brotherly Love and rich anthracite fields, seemed to offer almost unlimited opportunities to these immigrants. In a relatively short period of time a small minority within many a community developed into a sizeable majority. Almost exclusively Catholics, they organized parishes to satisfy their spiritual needs; and, almost simultaneously, they erected parochial schools to provide for the education of their children. With the increase in the number of parish schools the demand for teachers became greater than the Religious Communities then in America could satisfy.
In answer to an urgent appeal for help, Mother Veronica with four Bernardine Sisters landed in New York on October 16, 1894. The difficulties which confronted them at the outset were many indeed. Less heroic souls would have become disheartened under the burden of the duties and sacrifices that was their lot. But with true Christian fortitude and unwavering confidence in God, Mother Veronica and her companions accepted each new challenge and lived to see their zealous efforts bring forth abundant fruit.
The glorious work begun by Mother Veronica has continued during the past fifty years under the capable direction of her successors, Mother Hedwig, Mother Angela, and Mother Edmund, who is at present in charge of the community.
In addition to their work in the field of education, the Bernardine Sisters are now engaged in the corporal works of mercy - by administering to the sick in their hospitals and providing shelter to the homeless in their orphanages.
"Under the Shadow of the Almighty" tells a heart-warming story of the life and work of Mother Veronica. But it does more than that; it reflects the spirit of every Bernardine Sister. For whatever the field of endeavor, the spirit of the Bernardine in discharging her duties may be summed up in the motto of St. Francis whose rule she observes: "Deus meus et omnia!"
Rt. Rev. Msgr. Casimir. F. Lawniczak, Feast of the Epiphany, 1951
