A Shared History Across Ten Congregations
The Heritage and Research Center preserves the archival collections of ten congregations of Catholic women religious across the Midwest and beyond.
For generations, these congregations have served their communities through ministries in education, healthcare, and social services. While they share a common faith tradition, each congregation has its own identity and charism. From creating ecclesiastical art to founding international schools, they've carried out a wide range of service.
HARC's collections document the stories of these distinct ministries and the women behind them. They include a rich array of materials, including documents, diaries, photographs, scrapbooks, and more.
Together, these collections offer a powerful record of leadership, service, and faith in action.
Preserving a Legacy of Faith and Service
Catholic women religious have shaped communities around the world through their leadership, caregiving, and advocacy. HARC's collections preserve the histories of ten congregations whose ministries and service have made a lasting impact.
Meet the Congregations
Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
With a strong commitment to education and social justice, this congregation has established schools and colleges across the United States and internationally.
Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross
Founded in Ingenbohl, Switzerland, this congregation is known for its catechetical outreach and education programs.
Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters
Social justice is a core part of this congregation's mission, with ministries focused on education, job training, and environmental sustainability.
Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes
Dedicated to serving the poor, this congregation offers education, healthcare, and pastoral ministry to communities throughout the United States and Latin America.
Sisters of the Divine Savior
Headquartered in Rome, this international congregation works to promote justice and improve the lives of people experiencing poverty and other communities in need.
Sisters of the Holy Cross
For nearly two centuries, they have provided education and healthcare in the United States, Latin America, India, and more.
Servants of Mary (The Servite Sisters)
Guided by the Servite tradition, this congregation provides educational, healing, social, and pastoral ministries in the United States.
Sisters of the Most Precious Blood
This congregation serves communities across the United States and South America through ministries in art, education, music, and elder care.
Sisters of St. Casimir
Originally founded to support Lithuanian immigrants, they now provide education and music ministry in the United States and Argentina.
Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross
Guided by Franciscan values, they advocate for environmental justice and provide religious education and healthcare in northeastern Wisconsin.
Begin Your Research
Step into the past with HARC's collections of documents, photographs, diaries, and more. These records uncover the often-unseen histories and impact of women religious from the ten congregations. You'll also learn more about the communities they served in the United States, Argentina, India, Nicaragua, and many other places around the world.
Access the Digital Collections
Jump right in and explore digitized documents from your home.
Research the Collection
Visit us in person on the campus of Saint Mary's College to access archival materials and primary sources. Our archivists are ready to support you and help you find the right sources for your project.
