The Wheaton Franciscans were among many Catholic sisters who came to minister in this country in response to the needs of a growing immigrant population. This influx of pioneering women dedicated to serving God and their neighbor was a major factor in the development of health care, education, and other social services in the United States. This is the story of the Wheaton Franciscan sisters as they overcame misfortune and poverty in America to establish a variety of ministries, chief among them health care and housing. Today they constitute the American province of an international congregation founded by Mother Clara Pfaender in Germany in 1860 known as the Franciscan Sisters, Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. The first health care and housing ministries they founded continue to flourish as Wheaton Franciscan Services. The sisters also continue their service through their peace and justice activities as well as spiritual development ministries.
