Each year, Catholic Charities of New York’s Cardinal’s Christmas Luncheon marks the official kickoff of the Christmas season in New York — a cherished tradition that ushers in a spirit of generosity, community, and hope across the city. This year was no exception.

Guests filled the New York Hilton Midtown on December 4 for the 80th Annual Cardinal’s Christmas Luncheon, which featured remarks from His Eminence Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Rosanna Scotto, and J. Antonio Fernández, and other distinguished speakers — along with festive holiday performances from local school choirs and a special musical appearance by opera soprano Caitlin Lynch.

The 80th Annual Cardinal’s Christmas Luncheon brought together more than 900 guests to celebrate the mission of Catholic Charities of New York — and to raise over $1.5 million in vital funds for families in need.

The Official Kickoff of the Christmas Season

“This is my favorite luncheon,” began Rosanna Scotto, co-host of FOX 5’s Good Day New York and this year’s emcee, following an opening performance by the Saint Raymond School Choir. “Today really gets us ready for the Christmas season.”

“Catholic Charities is an organization that’s very close to my heart as a native New Yorker, and I’m so proud to be here again supporting all the work they do for our neighbors in need,” she said. Rosanna Scotto was honored with the Christmas Angel Award at last year’s Christmas Luncheon.

Following her welcome and an invocation from Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, leaders from Catholic Charities took the stage to reflect on the mission’s impact.

“Today we recognize the tremendous work Catholic Charities does to support and serve the basic needs of the poor, troubled, frail, and oppressed of all religions,” said Mary Buckley Teatum, President of Ladies of Charity of Catholic Charities of New York.

Next, J. Antonio Fernández, CEO of Catholic Charities of New York, addressed the audience. “We couldn’t do this without all of us to provide for the people in need,” he said. “Last year alone, we provided support for over 400,000 people in New York. We have to be thankful for that.”

“You know when you were a child how much fun you had when receiving gifts, but growing up, it’s so much more fun to give. And I challenge you all to do the same thing with Catholic Charities,” he added.

Michelle Moosally, Christmas Luncheon chairperson and Trustee, encouraged support for the St. Nicholas Project, which provides coats, hats, and winter essentials for more than 4,000 individuals. “We all got here this morning; it’s really cold out there. These gifts make a huge difference in the families that receive them,” she said. “These are essential support services that change lives, so please be as generous as you can.”

Guests then enjoyed a beautiful performance by soprano Caitlin Lynch, accompanied by pianist Howard Watkins, before the awards ceremony began.

Honoring Extraordinary Service and Leadership

The Spirit of St. Nicholas Award was presented first to Elizabeth and Todd Cosenza. The couple, who met at Fordham University, have dedicated their careers to service and leadership.

Todd Cosenza is partner and Co-Chair of the Securities Litigation Practice Group at Willkie Farr & Gallagher. Elizabeth Cosenza is Associate Professor of Law and Ethics at Fordham Gabelli School of Business at Fordham University.

“For Liz and me, our Catholic faith has been a transformative force in our lives,” Todd said, a Trustee. “It opened doors that our families — humble, hardworking, and rooted in faith — could never have imagined.”

A second Spirit of St. Nicholas Award was presented to Jennifer and Stephen Rich for their extraordinary service and leadership. Stephen Rich is Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President of Mutual of America Financial Group. Jennifer Rich is an educator, entrepreneur, and civic leader — serving on the Board of Trustees of Saint Bernard School and The Dwight-Englewood School and on the Board of Directors of the University of North Carolina College of Arts and Sciences Foundation.

“I’ve known Jennifer now for 42 years, and she is an amazing partner, my biggest supporter,” Stephen began. “This award represents qualities we strive to reach each day: selflessness, generosity, compassion, hope, and a desire to help others.”

The final award — the Christmas Angel Award — was presented to Noreen M. Culhane, Executive Vice President at New York Stock Exchange. Prior to the Exchange, Noreen spent 20 years at IBM and left as the Business Unit Executive for the Securities Industry.

“As a Trustee for over 15 years, I have seen Catholic Charities grow significantly in its reach, effectiveness, and reputation,” Noreen said. “The true angels deserving of this award are the 8,000 dedicated staff members and 13,000 volunteers working in 300 sites throughout the state of New York.”

A Finale Filled With Joy and Music

The ceremony concluded with a Scripture reading from Cardinal Dolan.

“For today in the city David, Bethlehem, a savior has been born for you, our Messiah and Lord,” he shared from the Gospel of St Luke, as students from Saint John Chrysostom School gathered to the stage to form the Christmas tableau.

Before the program concluded, guests joined the choir from St. Raymond Elementary in singing “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” Among those distinguished guests present were Lidia Bastianich, Susan Lucci, and Jeannie and Jim Gaffigan.

Catholic Charities extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended, supported, and contributed to this year’s luncheon. The event not only honors exemplary service but reminds us that Christmas is a season of giving.