Sisters of St. Joseph

Our Lady of Victory Chapel 2020

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Photograph of 1934 of the Convent of the Sisters of St Joseph in Ste Genevieve MO

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Sisters of St Joseph Motherhouse Gate in Brentwood, NY

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Sisters of St Joseph Convent Allston-Brighton

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NazarethConvent2007

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Mount Saint Joseph building from parking lot

Sisters of St. Joseph is a Roman Catholic religious congregation of women founded in Le Puy-en-Velay, France, in 1650. This congregation was established by Jean-Pierre Médaille, a Jesuit priest, with the aim of engaging in the "practice of all the spiritual and corporal works of mercy of which woman is capable and which will most benefit the dear neighbor." The Sisters of St. Joseph are also known by the initials "SSJ."

History

The foundation of the Sisters of St. Joseph was a response to the needs of the time, which included the aftermath of the Thirty Years' War and the impact of the plague. The first members focused on the care of the sick, the education of children, and the support of the poor, without living in a cloistered community, which was a revolutionary concept at the time.

The congregation spread rapidly throughout France and, eventually, around the world. During the French Revolution, many Sisters were persecuted, and the congregation was temporarily suppressed. However, it was re-established and continued to grow in the 19th century, spreading to the United States, Canada, and other countries.

Mission and Ministry

The Sisters of St. Joseph are committed to serving the "dear neighbor" without distinction. Their ministries include education, healthcare, social services, and spiritual development. They work in schools, hospitals, prisons, and community centers, striving to promote justice, peace, and the integrity of creation.

Spirituality

The spirituality of the Sisters of St. Joseph emphasizes unity and reconciliation. They seek to "live and work so that all people may be united with God and with one another," based on their charism of unifying love. Their spirituality is deeply rooted in the Catholic Church and the Gospel teachings of Jesus Christ.

Organization

The Sisters of St. Joseph are organized into various congregations and provinces around the world, each autonomous but linked through a shared history and spirituality. They gather periodically for general chapters to make decisions about their life and mission.

Notable Members

Throughout its history, the Sisters of St. Joseph have had many notable members who have contributed significantly to their communities and the world. These include educators, healthcare workers, and advocates for social justice.

Challenges and the Future

Like many religious congregations, the Sisters of St. Joseph face challenges such as declining numbers and the need for adaptation to contemporary society. However, they continue to attract new members who are drawn to their mission of service and unity.

See Also

• Religious congregation
• Roman Catholic Church
• Spiritual works of mercy
• Corporal works of mercy

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