Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Servant of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary Sister Gianna Grace Perino is preparing to profess her perpetual vows on December 12, 2025. Her journey toward religious life began in childhood, with early signs recognized by her mother.

Sister Gianna Grace recalled her upbringing in Catholic schools and the impact it had on her faith. “When I reflect back on my vocation story and my life as a religious, there’s just so much joy,” she said.

She described always feeling close to God and Our Lady. “I always grew up knowing that I was special to the Lord, and I felt that in my heart. I knew it, and I knew it was true because I had experienced God’s love in just so many ways,” she recalled.

The Diocese of Orlando was established in 1968. It currently includes 79 parishes, 11 missions, two basilicas, and 43 Catholic schools across several counties such as Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter, and Volusia. The diocese is led by Bishop James Noonan.