History of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes

Six young girls from a small village known as Cantaous in France, had a desire to live the consecrated life to God.Their growing desire was nurtured by Divine Grace in 1842.They shared their life and together contemplated the will of God for enlightnement.At the meantime, they went for basic literacy learning and acquisition of Religious life formation principles.

In 1843,the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes was founded on the eve of the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady in August.

The Congregation is sustained by a strong soul-force that derives from love."Love", says St. Paul ,"bears all things".This Love of Christ leads the Congregation to its destined goal and keeps it always at the service of our Mother Church!

Cantaous is currently in the Diocese of Tarbes, France.

Our Foundation

First Superior General

Sr. Marie Des Anges

Her actual name was Francine Gorres initially from the Congregation of the daughters of the Cross.

The Six Foundresses

  • Sr. Dominiquette Barrere
  • Sr. Blandine Barrere
  • Sr. Eulalie Barrere
  • Sr. Marie Barrere
  • Sr. Marie Dupuy
  • Sr. Jeanne Duffo

The name Barrere is honoured four times as it was common in the locality.Only Dominiquette and Eulalie were blood sisters.

Our Milestones

    1843 -Congregation founded in Tarbes, France.

    This mustard seed sown in Cantaous soon bacame a big tree.Its branches spread out far and wide: India, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia,Venezuela .Every summon they received found them ready to go. Their missionary zeal had a heroic fibre.

    1882 - Arrival in India

    1920 -Establishment of first school

    1982 -Arrival in Kenya by the sisters from India

    Present - Serving globally in various missions with over five hundred sisters

Charism

COMMUNION

To live the mystery of Jesus in communion, expressing it through a life of prayer, simplicity, and humble service to the poor and the marginalized.

Rooted in the experience of God’s love and a deep sense of communion, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes are called to live and manifest communion in all aspects of life. Our charism flows from the mystery of the Trinity, inspiring us to live in unity with God, with one another, and with all people. We are contemplatives in action, finding God in every person and every situation. Moved by compassion and love, we dedicate ourselves to the service of humanity—especially the poor, the sick, the marginalized, and those in need of education and care. Living the spirit of simplicity, humility, and self-giving love, we seek to bring healing and reconciliation wherever we are sent, fostering relationships marked by respect, understanding, and mutual support.

Spirituality

We are deeply devoted to St. Joseph, the Husband of Mary. We follow the Ignatius of Loyola Spirituality for our Spiritual exercises.This forms the basis of our daily meditation and yearly Retreats.

Our Core Values

    Simplicity

    Hospitality

    Constant search for conversion

    Communitarian aspect of the mission

    Interior dynamism — source of audacity and joy

    Searching with the heart of the poor for participation and collaboration with all