Franciscan Handmaids

of the Most Pure
Heart of Mary

Welcome

In the spirit of Francis and Clare, Father Lissner and Mother Theodore, and compelled by the love of Jesus, we, the Franciscan Handmaids of the Most Pure Heart of Mary, are committed to joyful evangelization and empowerment of people, especially those experiencing discrimination.

We witness to the world that Jesus came for all people

Originally founded as a black congregation of Roman Catholic Sisters in Savannah, Georgia, today our congregation is composed of sisters of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The membership and ministry of the Franciscan Handmaids of the Most Pure Heart of Mary are open to all peoples.

As followers of St. Francis, we are committed to the Gospel way of life. From our Motherhouse in Harlem, New York City, we go forth to bring the Good News by dedication and the practice of corporal and spiritual works of mercy, including teaching, visiting the sick, giving retreats, catechizing, operating a food pantry and directing a health initiative in the rural village of Owerri, Nigeria.

In all of our endeavors, we strive to be God's instruments of peace by bringing love, pardon, faith, hope, light and joy to all our brothers and sisters in this wounded world. Journey with us!