Our Congregation

In the mid-19th century, the socio-political climate of Tamil Nadu mirrored the dire conditions of a third-world nation. Women were shackled by societal norms, treated as subservient to men, and relegated to the status of second-class citizens. The education of women was a forsaken concept in Tamil society, dismissed as unnecessary. Missionaries, however, believed that empowering women through education was the key to restoring their dignity and uplifting the social fabric of families.

At this turning point, the Synod of Pondicherry Convened from January 18 to February 13, 1844, under the stewardship of Mgr. Clement Bonnand, the Bishop of the Pondicherry mission. Among the many urgent matters discussed, the education of girl children emerged as a matter of paramount importance. In response, Fr. Dupuis was entrusted with three monumental tasks:

1. Establish a Printing Press to facilitate learning and communication.

2. Found a new Indigenous Women Religious Congregation with the primary goal of educating girls.

3. Establish Schools specifically for the education of female children.

Battling Opposition with Vision and Courage

Introducing the radical idea of women’s education in a conservative society was met with fierce resistance. Yet, undeterred by opposition, Fr. Dupuis, a man of unwavering vision and unyielding resolve, pursued his mission with relentless courage and wisdom. His tireless efforts bore fruit on October 16, 1844, with the founding of the Congregation of Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (FIHM) for Indigenous women. The first Mother Superior, Sr. Theresammal from Carmel Convent, along with novices Savariammal and Annammal from Cuddalore, and Theresa from Pondicherry, laid the foundation for this pioneering institution.

By 1864, the Congregation received canonical approval from Msgr. Godelle, and on July 18, 1886, it was formally aggregated to the Third Order of St. Francis of Assisi.

A Legacy of Education and Empowerment

On October 17, 1844, Fr. Dupuis inaugurated the Immaculate Heart of Mary Girls’ School, a modest institution that has since grown into a thriving Higher Secondary School with 6,000 female students, standing proudly on Mission Street, Pondicherry, opposite the Archbishop’s House.

Though frail in health, Fr. Dupuis was formidable in spirit. In his lifetime of 68 years, he penned the first Constitution of the Congregation in French, comprising 275 articles, and guided the sisters with values of simplicity, piety, service, and hospitality. Under his thirty-year leadership, the Congregation flourished, establishing 10 convents and 12 schools, which became sanctuaries of learning, service, and empowerment, especially for the marginalized.

Fr. Dupuis entered into eternal rest on June 4, 1874, leaving behind a monumental legacy. His mission expanded like a banyan tree, offering shelter to countless women and the underprivileged. With growing numbers, the Congregation welcomed candidates from Kerala. However, language barriers necessitated a cordial division on April 7, 1947, creating two distinct branches: FIHM – Pondicherry and FIH – Quilon.

Evolution, Governance, and Pontifical Status

After Fr. Dupuis' passing, the Congregation was shepherded by four MEP Directors and two native diocesan priests. These leaders revised the Constitution, convened Chapter meetings, and elected new Superiors General to ensure the Congregation’s growth and relevance. With changing times, the Congregation continued to evolve to meet new challenges.

In 1978, under the papacy of Pope John Paul I, the Congregation was elevated to Pontifical status, marking a new chapter of expansion and service. The Constitutions were updated to align with the directives of Vatican II and the new Code of Canon Law. With divine guidance, the Congregation extended its mission beyond Indian shores, establishing a global presence.

A Global Presence and Enduring Mission

In 1990, the Congregation was divided into three provinces:

1. Our Lady of Lourdes Province – Pondy-Cuddalore

2. St. Joseph Province – Trichy

3. Infant Jesus Province – Madurai

In 1998, a fourth province, Assisi Province, was established in Keesara, Andhra Pradesh. The Congregation further expanded its outreach by establishing a regional presence in East Africain 2002. Today, FIHM boasts 1,000+ sisters, serving in 178 convents across 9 countries, continuing its mission of selfless service and empowerment of women.

The Generalate of the Congregation is located on St. Therese Street, Pondicherry. At present, 17 convents, including those abroad, operate under the direct administration of the Generalate. The four provinces and the East Africa Region comprise the following:

• Our Lady of Lourdes Province – 39 convents

• St. Joseph Province – 43 convents

• Infant Jesus Province – 39 convents

• Assisi Province – 29 convents

• Dupuis Region, East Africa – 11 convents

The Congregation’s profound motto, “Love and Sacrifice,” resonates through its foundational charism: “The Sanctification of Sisters for the Sanctification of Women.” From its inception, the Congregation has been unwavering in its commitment to the empowerment of women through education—a transformative force at the heart of its mission. Driven by this vision, the sisters established a formidable network of over 100 primary, high, and secondary schools, aligned with both state and central boards. These institutions became bastions of learning, empowering countless young women to build brighter futures for themselves, their families and their communities.

As society advanced at an unprecedented pace, with monumental strides in human civilization, science, and technology, the Congregation recognized the ever-evolving needs of women. Responding to these demands, it expanded its mission beyond foundational schooling, embracing the call for higher education. Today, the Immaculate Sisters stand at the forefront of global education, administering 14 premier institutes of higher learning. These institutions, both nationally and internationally, deliver cutting-edge, specialized programs, providing women around the world with the tools to thrive in a modern, interconnected society.

Conclusion

The Congregation, founded on the visionary principles of Servant of God, Fr. Dupuis, stands as a living testament to his legacy. What began as a seed planted in the challenging soil of opposition has grown into a mighty tree, offering refuge and hope to the downtrodden, especially women. With its unwavering commitment to service, education, and empowerment, the FIHM Congregation continues to forge ahead, shining as a beacon of light in a world that still yearns for justice and equality.