October 15, 2022

“Keep always in mind the aim of your vocation which is sublime: and never do anything which contradicts the commitment to a life full of modesty, gentleness, and holiness”. (Jean-Pierre Médaille)

Dear Sisters, Associates and Friends,

In this 372st Anniversary of the Foundation of the Sisters of St. Joseph, and the birth of the Little Design, our hearts sing a hymn of praise and thanksgiving to our God as we recall the many blessings we have received over the Centuries.

Every year October 15th offers us the opportunity to deepen our lived experience of our commitment to a life full of modesty, gentleness, and holiness, as Fr. Médaille recommended to the first sisters and associates.

In the encyclical "Fratelli tutti" Pope Francis writes: “Gentleness is a liberation from the cruelty that sometimes penetrates human relationships, from the anxiety that doesn't let us think about others”. When gentleness becomes culture it profoundly transforms the lifestyle, social relationships, the way of discussing and comparing ideas. We are called to become gentle and holy, paying attention, giving a smile, saying a word of encouragement, making possible a space of listening in the midst of indifference. An effort that daily is capable of creating a healthy presence that overcomes misunderstandings and prevents conflicts.

May the Lord bless us and our communities with every grace, through the intercession of Father Jean-Pierre Médaille and our founding Sisters.

Happy Feast Day! With love,

S. Dolores Lahr
S. Maria Cristina Gavazzi
S. Elisa Fatima Zuanazzi
S Celine Kalathoor