BRIGHTON -- In celebration of the Sisters of St. Joseph 140 years of service and presence in Boston, over 350 friends, former students, and supporters attended the first annual Living the Dream dinner held on March 27 at the Seaport Hotel.

During the event, Margaret and Paul Chisholm of St. Raphael, West Medford were honored the sisters' Dear Neighbor Award for their service to others, sharing in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The award was presented by Sister Rosemary Brennan, president of the Sisters of St. Joseph, and Sister Adela Rodriguez, the artist who created the award.

Earlier in the evening Mike Sheehan, CEO of the Boston Globe and emcee for the evening, introduced Sister Adela along with Sisters Rita McCormack, Catherine Ginty, and Pat Andrews who were featured in a newly created video titled "Sisters of St. Joseph: In Our Own Words."

Pauline Fillman, the guest speaker for the evening, reflected on the various ministries of the Sisters of St. Joseph that have reached out to her and her family saying, "Words cannot express how grateful I am to you Sisters of St. Joseph for your belief, faith, and tenacity, even during times of adversity, in carrying out your mission -- caring for the dear neighbor. You have offered a helping hand to others and myself through housing and education."

Today, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston provide support for countless individuals in need throughout the Boston area and well beyond. Many sisters, associates, and lay partners volunteer as literacy and citizenship tutors, advocates for survivors of human trafficking, and companions to the aged and infirm. Others provide counseling and spiritual companionship for those who desire to deepen their relationship with God. A few of these ministries include St. Joseph Retreat Center, The Literacy Connection, Casserly House, and The Women's Table.

This event, which was co-chaired by John E. Drew and Francis Dillon, raised $625,000 to support the retired sisters and the ministries of the Sisters of St. Joseph.