Jesus, Lover of Humanity Province, Fox Chase, Philadelphia, PA
In 1911, Basilian Sisters from Ukraine arrived in Philadelphia to assist Ukrainian Byzantine Catholics under Bishop Soter Ortynsky. Led by Mother Helena Langevych, they cared for orphans and supported themselves through small businesses despite hardship.
The 1920s saw growth under Metropolitan Bohachevsky, with the establishment of a Ukrainian Catholic school system. In 1930, they built their Motherhouse and novitiate in Fox Chase. St. Basil Academy opened in 1931, evolving into a respected college preparatory school, followed by Manor College in 1947. After Ukraine’s independence in 1991, the Sisters launched a Ukraine Outreach Program to aid religious renewal.
They promote vocations and engage laypeople through the Basilian Associates. In 2000, they consecrated the Holy Trinity Chapel and Spirituality Center. Celebrating their centennial in 2011, the Sisters continue their mission of prayer, education, and service, rooted in Eastern Christian spirituality and cultural heritage.