Luz Rivas: “I rise today to honor Sister Mary Jesus Ochoa of the Order of St. Francis in San Fernando. This week, she celebrated her…”

“I rise today to honor Sister Mary Jesus Ochoa of the Order of St. Francis in San Fernando. This week, she celebrated her 100th birthday. Sister Mary Jesus is a member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, who entered religious life in the 1940s. She has spent decades supporting our most vulnerable across the San Fernando Valley and in Mexico. During her service, she worked with children and families in need, emphasizing care, stability, and long-term support. Sister Mary Jesus played a key leadership role at the Poverello of Assisi Retreat House in San Fernando. There, she helped provide retreat services, community support, and housing for young women and children. When earthquakes caused major damage to the retreat house and the surrounding buildings, Sister Mary Jesus led the rebuilding efforts to make sure that services were not interrupted for those who need it the most. Sister Mary Jesus' work reflects steady leadership, resilience in times of crisis, and a clear commitment to serving others with dignity and purpose. I wish Sister Mary Jesus a happy 100th birthday. The San Fernando Valley is grateful for her dedication to helping our community.”