Presence in the United States
In 1874, the first Sisters of Charity crossed the Atlantic Ocean to Baltic, Connecticut, carrying with them a missionary spirit and a deep desire to serve. Soon after, they founded a school in Willimantic, expanding their presence and commitment to Christian education.
Over the years, the mission flourished: by 1960, the congregation had eleven houses in ten locations across the United States. The following year, in 1961, the region became an independent province, marking a new chapter in the history of the congregation.
Following the Second Vatican Council, a period of renewal began, during which two groups were formed within the province. In 1970, one group established itself in Baltic as the Sisters of Our Lady, Mother of the Church (SCMC). The other group chose to continue as Sisters of Charity, remaining faithful to the vision of an international congregation, open to communion and mission throughout the world.
Today, a small group of Sisters of Charity lives in different parts of the United States, gathering around them people who share the same charism and spirituality. These women, known as the “Friends of the SCMM,” have become a living part of the mission, walking together in faith and service.
In 2023, the community in the United States became part of the International Province, formed by the merging of the provinces of Brazil, the Philippines, and the United States, with its headquarters located in Brazil. This union strengthened the bonds of communion and global collaboration, embodying the international and merciful spirit of the congregation.
On July 4, 2024, the International Province held its Provincial Chapter, and a Council was formed with three sisters representing the international richness of the Congregation:
Sr. Paula Frassinetti (Brazil) — Provincial
Sr. Mary Ellen Ryley (United States) — Vice-Provincial
Sr. Josephine Corpuz (Philippines) — Councilor
A leadership that integrates cultures, strengthens bonds, and reaffirms the mission of putting mercy into action.
In Brazil, there is a strong movement of mercy and a good group of associates. After the merger, it was decided that it would be good for the Friends to become associates, considering all the journey they have already experienced together with the sisters.
In June 2025, the Friends renewed their commitments, becoming officially recognized as Associates of the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of Mercy (SCMM). All are financially independent and actively collaborate in the mission, offering advice on financial donations, while the Sisters retain ultimate responsibility for decision-making.
Currently, the five Sisters and five Associates remain deeply involved in community life. With an average age of 81, they meet regularly via Zoom throughout the year and gather once a year for an in-person assembly.
Faithful to their history and to the call of the Gospel, the Sisters and Associates in the United States continue to be witnesses of mercy and hope, keeping alive the flame of love carried across the ocean by the first missionaries more than 150 years ago.
