Our History


Three prophetic women answered God's call to serve the immigrant population of St. Louis in 1901. They responded to the needs of Polish immigrants for education to empower them to be responsible and contributing citizens, as well as people of faith, loyal to their Church and to their heritage.


Now, our Sisters respond to society's current needs in ministry that we might empower others. With a common heart, we commit ourselves to evangelize everyone, everywhere, everyway and to address global warming and other issues affecting our planet earth. The Canticle of St. Francis reminds us to be in right relationship with one another and with the earth. The Sisters, along with Franciscans nationally, will work to inform and affect earth issues.

 

Responding to the needs of
God's people in 16 states in:

  • Education – elementary through university schools
  • Campus ministry
  • Pastoral ministry in parishes
  • Pastoral care in nursing homes and hospitals
  • Native American reservations
  • Hospitals and nursing homes
  • Prisons and women's shelters
  • Centers for spiritual renewal
  • Victims of abuse
  • Volunteer work
  • Prayer ministry






















If you would like to support the sisters in their efforts to be a Transforming Presence, click here.

Meet Our Sisters

Sr. Colleen Olsen

Nurse, Brain Injury Unit St. Louis, Missouri Recalling the day she entered the convent in September, 1958, Sister Colleen said, "As my parents and I walked up to the front door of the Motherhouse, we were greeted by Sister Narcissa. She had just gotten off a tractor, having mowed the lawn. Her face was radiant and weathered by the sun. She was always so kind and gentle. Many years later, I was privileged to care for her on her death bed." Born and raised on the southwest side of Chicago, Sister Colleen Olsen, RN, sees the essential part of her call to Gospel conversion is care towards those who are sick. "Serving the sick for me is to ‘follow in the footsteps of Christ’ who embraced all the people of this world." Sister Colleen has made several mission trips to El Salvador where she worked with medical personnel, treating patients in remote areas of that country. She looks forward to going back again.