Today International Patrons of Duomo di Milano celebrated, with Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano, the success of the online crowd funding campaign for the adoption and restoration of the Mother Cabrini Spire.

Frances Xavier Cabrini, first American Saint arrived in New York from Lodigiano in 1889. She is an ideal symbol of the shared history between Italy and the United States. Joseph del Raso, NIAF CHairman declared

"It means a great deal to us that American’s first Saint is an Italian American like we are, and I cannot imagine a better testament to all Italian Americans and our values than this beautiful sculpture atop one of the most spectacular constructions in Italy and the world."

Thanks to the support of NIAF, of the Fondazione Berti per l'Arte e la Scienza, Eataly and to all those who took part in the campaign online the Spire of Mother Cabrini is now dedicated to all its international benefactors.

Following the press conference with Mons. Gianantonio Borgonovo, Archpriest and President of the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano, Roberto Maroni, President of the Lombardy Region, and to Joseph del Raso, NIAF Chairman, the unveiling ceremony took place on the rooftop of the Cathedral, where they were joined by the NIAF delegation and guests, as well as U.S. Consul General Philip T. Reeker.