What is the history of Sisters of St Anne?

The Sisters of St. Anne is a Catholic religious congregation founded in 1850 in Quebec, Canada. The congregation was established by Mother Marie Anne (Esther Blondin), who became the first Superior General of the Sisters of St. Anne. The order’s foundation was rooted in the teachings and values of the Catholic Church, with a focus on education, social justice, and caring for the vulnerable.

Here is an overview of the history of the Sisters of St. Anne:

1. Foundation and Early Years:

• The congregation was founded on February 8, 1850, in Lachine, Quebec, by Mother Marie Anne, who felt a calling to serve God through education and social work.
• The early focus of the Sisters of St. Anne was on providing education, especially to girls and women. They opened schools and orphanages to fulfill this mission.

2. Expansion:

• As the congregation grew, the Sisters of St. Anne expanded their reach beyond Quebec. They established missions and schools in various parts of Canada and the United States, including British Columbia, Ontario, Massachusetts, and California.

3. Educational Mission:

• Education became a central aspect of the Sisters of St. Anne’s mission. They were involved in founding and operating schools at various levels, from elementary to post-secondary education.
• The sisters were known for their dedication to providing quality education and instilling Catholic values in their students.

4. Social Justice and Outreach:

• In addition to education, the Sisters of St. Anne were actively engaged in social justice and community outreach. They worked with marginalized and vulnerable populations, advocating for social equality and assisting those in need.

5. Changes and Adaptations:

• Like many religious congregations, the Sisters of St. Anne underwent changes and adaptations in response to the evolving needs of the Church and society. They explored new ways of expressing their charism while maintaining their commitment to education and social justice.

6. Legacy:

• The Sisters of St. Anne have left a lasting legacy in the communities they serve. Many of the schools they founded continue to operate, and their influence is felt in the lives of those they educated and the communities they served.

Today, the Sisters of St. Anne continue their mission, adapting to contemporary challenges and continuing to live out their commitment to education, justice, and compassionate service in various parts of the world.