Work in God’s vineyard brings hope to world
As School Sisters of Notre Dame celebrate the foundation of the congregation, we invite you to reflect on our foundress’s words: “May God of the vineyard give growth so that what God’s love has called into being may bear blessed fruit in its time.”
Caroline Gerhardinger, who took the religious name Mary Theresa of Jesus, lived a life totally committed to the service of God and God’s people. She placed her trust and hope in God and the transforming power of God’s love.
On October 24, 1833, Caroline and two young women began their religious life in Neunburg vorm Wald, Bavaria. The School Sisters of Notre Dame congregation was founded to educate girls and young women from the lower and middle classes to help them become strong devout mothers, who would instill Christian values in their families.
Today, School Sisters of Notre Dame across North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia continue Blessed Theresa’s mission of education with a special commitment to women, youth and persons who are poor.
Our sisters witness and inspire hope in countless people through educational ministries that transform our world. View a Foundation Day greeting from the sisters.
Photo by Mary Conarchy
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SSND Central Pacific Province in solidarity with Syrian Refugees
As we enter a time of change and transition, we are reminded that we are all made in God’s image and are all God’s children. At this time more than ever, we must address world divisions and crises with audacity and hope, as every human life is sacred no matter ethnicity, religion or creed.
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Communities rebuilding after Louisiana flooding
On Aug. 12, 2016, flooding damaged many communities throughout Louisiana, including those of School Sisters of Notre Dame associates and sisters’ families. Although several months have passed and life is slowly returning to normal for those affected, rebuilding damaged homes and businesses is ongoing, yet communities have remained prayerful and supportive of one another.
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Celebrating Mother Caroline: A lesson in courage
The passion and courage of Mother Caroline Friess, the American foundress of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, can be seen in the ministries of sisters today. More 100 years later, sisters continue her efforts to educate and aid immigrants and those less fortunate.