The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph traces its origins to 1650 in Le Puy, France, where Fr. Jean Pierre Médaille, S.J., founded a community of women dedicated to serving God through humble and compassionate service to the poor and marginalized. Despite the setbacks of the French Revolution, the Congregation was revived in 1808 under Mother St. John Fontbonne and continued to grow, carrying forward its mission of love, unity, and service.

In India, the Congregation began its mission in 1849 when four courageous Sisters arrived at Yanam at the invitation of Bishop Neyret of the Vicariate of Visakhapatnam. They devoted themselves to the education and empowerment of women and children, recognizing education as a powerful means of overcoming poverty and restoring human dignity. Today, the Sisters of St. Joseph continue the vision of their founder across the world, serving humanity through education, healthcare, social outreach, and pastoral ministries, with a special commitment to the poor and the neglected.

The Sisters of St. Joseph serve in France, East Africa, England, West Africa, and India, carrying forward their mission of compassionate service and Christian witness. More