The charism of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity is to live the Gospel in simplicity, grounded on faith in a loving God, accepting poverty joyfully, and dedicating themselves selflessly to the service of others. Rooted in Franciscan spirituality, they strive to follow St. Francis’ “Gospel way of life” by reverencing all creation, respecting each person as an image of God, and serving the Church through education, health care, pastoral ministry, and community outreach. Their life integrates prayer, community living, and active ministry to bring Christ’s love to those in need.

The congregation was founded on November 9, 1869, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, USA, when Theresa Gramlich and four other young women responded to God’s call to live in community and serve others in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. Originally emerging from local parish needs for education and care of the poor, the community gradually expanded its ministries, including parochial schools and health care. Over time, they received approval as a Pontifical congregation, with definitive recognition granted by Pope John XXIII in 1962. They adapted and renewed their Constitutions following Vatican II, and today the sisters serve in multiple dioceses across the United States in Catholic education, health care, pastoral work, and other apostolic ministries.

📧 vocations@fscc-calledtobe.org