Sr. Maria Orlandini’s life is a testament to the power of faith in action. As the director of advocacy for the Franciscan Action Network (FAN), she tirelessly champions justice, focusing on critical issues such as gun violence prevention, human trafficking, and Native American rights. A dedicated member of Nuns Against Gun Violence, she also works alongside advocates calling for a commission to investigate the painful history of Native American boarding schools in the U.S.
Her passion for justice extends deeply into her own congregation, where she chairs the Care for Creation Committee, co-chairs the JPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation) Committee, and serves on the Dismantling Racial Discrimination Committee.
Born in the picturesque town of Bedizzole, Italy, Sr. Maria dreamed from an early age of entering religious life and becoming a missionary. That dream led her on an incredible journey—one that has taken her from New Mexico to Africa, the Philippines, India, Brazil, Argentina, Chester (PA), and now Washington, DC. She first served as a Conossian Sister before later transferring to the Sisters of St. Francis, embracing the Franciscan call to justice, peace, and service.
Her missionary heart remains alive and active as she continues to participate in delegations to Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Honduras, standing in solidarity with communities striving for justice and dignity. Each culture, each encounter, has broadened her perspective, deepened her compassion, and strengthened her resolve to advocate for the most vulnerable.
Through every transition and new challenge, Sr. Maria has adapted with grace, never wavering from her core commitment—to spread love, foster justice, and be a voice for those who need one most. This year, as she celebrates 50 years of religious life, we honor her unwavering dedication, her courageous heart, and the countless lives she has touched across the world.
Follow The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SrsofStFrancisPhila/?ref=mf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sistersofstfrancis/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SrsofStFrancisPhila
X: https://twitter.com/OSFPhila
