Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph

Under Mother Colette’s guidance the congregation opened many schools.  They taught young people the importance of their faith, their citizenship, and education. 

For many years the congregation’s name was Franciscan Sisters Minor Conventuals.  In 1952 the congregation took the name, Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph.

In 1947 FSSJ celebrated their 50th Anniversary with Mass celebrated by Bishop O’Hara, Bishop of Buffalo, NY.

In 1985, in the spirit of Vatican II, the Sisters had their revised constituion approved by Rome.  The picture is of the blessing of the Constitution of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph.

Left to right:  Fr. Claude, Sr. Noella, Sr. Paulette, Sr. Sanctia, Sr. Claire Ann, Sr. Mary Frances, Sr. Andrea, Sr. Mary Jan and Sr. Martha Marie

For the 100th Anniversary of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph in 1997, Sr. Ann Lyons’ family commissioned an artist to create this icon of Mother Colette.  She planted a seed of loving service, helped it to grow during her life in leadership and allowed it to flourish in the hands of many other leaders.  It was her faith, hope, and love that inspired each Franciscan Sister of St. Joseph to “Witness the Gospel in joy and peace”.