Advisory Board: The members of the Advisory Board representing CSJ, volunteer, partner, and neighbor planned the event gathered together in celebration of 25 years!
Backyard: In the backyard and driveway, conversation, companionship and delicious international cuisine was enjoyed by all! A team of volunteers including Ignatian Volunteers and a current Jesuit Volunteer, also contributed to the festivities!
Mark and adult learner: An adult learner tries out his newly acquired English language skills with one of his volunteer instructors, Mark.
Sheila and Jahaziel: Jahaziel shows volunteer Sheila the playlist that he and his family created for all to enjoy.
Books: New books were donated and offered as a “favor” for the neighborhood children and their parents.
By Donna Stiglmeier and Adina Lang
June 22, 2025
On Sunday afternoon, June 22nd, Casserly House joyfully marked a very special milestone—25 years since our founding by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston. Once again, Roslindale’s “42 Stellman” came alive with laughter, connection, and reflection as we gathered to honor the mission and community that have grown here over a quarter century.
The celebration brought together a vibrant mix of people who help make Casserly House what it is. Members of our Advisory Board thoughtfully organized the event, including a spirited playlist, facepainting for the children, and a special cake cutting. CSJ Leadership Council member Sr. Marian Batho, CSJ and co-founder/resident Sr. Nancy Braceland, CSJ, along with other Sisters of St. Joseph, in addition to our neighborhood families, dedicated ESOL volunteers, and adult learners were among the attendees. Each person played a role in shaping the welcoming and inclusive spirit that defines Casserly House.
Sr. Nancy Braceland, co-founder of Casserly House, shows off the Commonwealth Citation signed by our Representative Rob Consalvo honoring the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Later, City Council of Boston’s Citation via our Roslindale City Councilor Enriques Pepen was conveyed.
Sr. Marian offered beautiful remarks and blessed the ministry – past, present, and future. Our adult learners were recognized with certificates of participation for their hard work and commitment; their progress is a testament to the power of education, community, and encouragement. Citations from the Boston City Council and State House of Representatives were conveyed to the Sisters of Saint Joseph. In true Casserly House tradition, everyone brought a traditional dish to share—transforming the backyard into a delicious international feast that reflected the diverse cultures represented in our community. From savory to sweet, each dish told a story, and the backyard became a place for new conversations and deeper connections.
Throughout the celebration, there was a shared feeling of gratitude. Gratitude for the vision of the Sisters of St. Joseph who planted the seeds 25 years ago. Gratitude for the staff, volunteers, immigrants, partners – past and present – many who continue to nurture those seeds every day. And above all, gratitude for the sense of community we create here together.
As we look to the future, we continue to carry forward the legacy of unifying love of God and neighbor. Here’s to more learning, growing, and building community—side by side.
Happy 25th Anniversary, Casserly House! Thank you, Sisters of Saint Joseph of Boston!
Donna and Adina: Donna and Adina welcome all and confer certificates to the adult learners.