Cardinal Timothy Dolan recognized religious sisters and brothers, who have served for at least 50 years, at the annual jubilee Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Sunday.

Several of the 15 sisters and three brothers from 10 religious communities were in attendance. Many have served overseas as missionaries during that time.

The religious assisted in the Mass, including presenting the first and second readings, and also bringing up the offertory gifts.

“Might I say to the beloved sisters and brothers that are here with us this morning, celebrating jubilees, what Pope Francis often says, that you are the heart of the Church. You are near the heart that beats with love for all of us,”  said Cardinal Dolan in a homily that sought to explain the power of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 

The religious sisters and brothers renewed their vows, led by Sister Joan Curtin, C.N.D., vicar of religious for the Archdiocese of New York.

Cardinal Dolan hosted a luncheon for the religious celebrating their jubilees following the Mass.

The Mass will also celebrated Father’s Day