Its was the early 1960's a group of young woman - sisters - landed in America to do what Jesus had commanded them to do - love the least of these. And for thousands of little boys and girls, life would never be the same.

"My mother said, I made the first sacrifice, now you go and be happy."

They did not even know the language but they were driven by a mission to love those Jesus called the least of these.

"That child was my heart when she left a piece of me left."

Sara Hoffman was one of the first to steal Sister Sarafine's heart. Born without arms or legs, Sister spent 18 months with here.

"I really loved that baby."

Then there was Michel Sirven. He too was severely handicapped and he too was placed in Sister Sarafine's arms.

And they have for 50 years, Sister Gema, Sister Coshetta and sister Sarafine, taking care of the kids in the nursery at Holy Angels.

Some, like Sara, grow up and take on all that life has to offer. Others, like Michel, live quietly under the sisters care. And when God wants them back, she gives them.

"My students, many of them are angels. They are angels in heaven.

But along the way the parents of those angels bond with these sisters in powerful ways.

"They are part of our family now always will be."

"Oh my God, the love and compassion they show for those kids is unbelievable. No lay person could do what they do for those kids."

Sister Sarafine left for a well deserved retirement this week to her native Italy, where no doubt she will find more kids to love.