The sisters of the sorrowful mother

We are an international community of Franciscan women religious who work to bring fuller life to others. We are advocates, supporters, and companions to those in need – the sick, the poor, the vulnerable, and those in crisis. The rule and life of the Brothers and Sisters of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis is our foundational rule. We revere Mary, Mother of Sorrows, whose title we bear, and we look to Mary, as a model of faith, contemplation of God’s word, humble discipleship, and tender compassion (Our Way of Life #1-3).

Our roots go back nearly 150 years to 1883, when Venerable Mother Frances Streitel arrived in Rome to establish a new community of women religious. Her goal was to unite a life of active service and contemplative prayer. In the years since Mother Frances built this firm foundation, the women who walked in her footsteps have cared for the sick, educated children, and stood with the poor. Learn more about our history through this link.

Currently, the Sisters are present in the U.S., Germany, Austria, Italy, Brazil, Tanzania, and the Caribbean islands of Grenada, St. Lucia, and Trinidad/Tobago. The U.S. St. Clare of Assisi Delegation is headquartered in Oshkosh, Wisconsin at SSM Franciscan Courts.