Tuesday, July 15 2025

Welcome to the history of the Western American Area of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM)

Rooted in the founding vision of Father Jean Gailhac and Mother St. Jean Cure-Pélissier, the RSHM Western American Area embraces a legacy of faith, zeal, and risk in service to a world in need. From our earliest foundations in California and Mexico, we have been committed to collaboration, compassion, and placing resources in the service of those most in need of justice.

Guided by internationality and a global perspective and vision, our sisters have journeyed across borders and cultures to educate, advocate, and respond to the needs of the times. Whether through schools, pastoral ministries, or community outreach, we strive to ensure that all may have life, life to the full.

We invite you to explore our story, shaped by passion, resilience, and the ongoing call to make God known and loved in every generation.

Founder and Foundress

Beginnings of the Institute

The Institute of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary was founded on February 24, 1849, when a group of women gathered together to form a community dedicated to the works of Father Jean Gailhac, a priest in Béziers, France.

General Superiors

Mission Statement

We, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, an international apostolic institute of women religious, are called to share in the life-giving mission of Jesus Christ.

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