Patrimony

The Patrimony of the Little Sisters of St. Francis (LSOSF)

The Little Sisters of St. Francis (LSOSF) is a religious congregation founded in 1923 by Mother Mary Kevin Kearney, an Irish missionary with a deep commitment to the Franciscan way of life. The congregation’s patrimony—its spiritual heritage and mission—draws inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi, who embraced a life of poverty, humility, and service to the poor.

Spiritual Heritage

The sisters live by the Franciscan charism, which calls for:

  • A life of prayer, simplicity, and fraternity.
  • A deep commitment to evangelization and social justice.
  • Witnessing to Gospel values through humility, joy, and love.

Their spirituality emphasizes a personal relationship with Christ, nurtured through daily Mass, Eucharistic adoration, and communal prayers, including the Liturgy of the Hours.

Apostolic Mission

The LSSF are actively engaged in ministries that reflect their founding vision of serving the most vulnerable, particularly in education, healthcare, pastoral work, and social services.

  • Education: The sisters run and teach in schools at all levels, ensuring that disadvantaged children receive holistic and value-based education.
  • Healthcare: They operate hospitals and clinics, providing medical care, especially to the poor and marginalized.
  • Pastoral Ministry: The sisters assist in parishes, catechesis, and formation programs, helping to strengthen the faith of the communities they serve.
  • Social Services: They engage in programs that empower women, care for orphans, and support vulnerable individuals through sustainable development projects.

Commitment to the Charism

As a congregation, the Little Sisters of St. Francis live out their mission by remaining faithful to their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, dedicating their lives to Christ and His people. Their Franciscan identity is reflected in their simple lifestyle, love for nature, and a strong sense of community and solidarity with the poor.

Through ongoing formation and renewal, they continue to safeguard, deepen, and pass on their patrimony, ensuring its relevance in today’s world.