Julia Attaway has lived in upper Manhattan for nearly 30 years, the last five of which have been in Inwood. A freelance writer, editor, and marketer, she was actively involved in developing community events as she raised her five children. Four years ago, she accepted the position of Executive Director at St Frances Cabrini Shrine. There she has community concerts, hosted community events, and – because Mother Cabrini is the patron saint of immigrants – done outreach to educate neighbors on immigration issues.

The Shrine of St. Frances Cabrini houses the remains of Mother Cabrini, the patron saint of immigrants. This peaceful chapel overlooking the Hudson River is nestled right here in Northern Manhattan. The land was purchased by Mother Cabrini herself in 1899 to house a boarding school for upper-class girls, and she used the tuition to fund orphanages and free schools for the poor. The shrine continues today to be a sacred space to pray, rest and draw close to Jesus through the intercession of St. Frances Cabrini. www.cabrinishrinenyc.org