Our Founders

The visionary souls who inspired a global mission of love and compassion

The Congregation of the Daughters of Mary

A missionary religious institute of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church

Our Humble Beginnings

The Congregation had its humble beginnings on 8 May 1938, in Marthandam, located in the Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu, India. It was officially approved by the Holy See under the name Daughters of Mary, with Our Lady of Harvest as the heavenly patroness.

Our Founders

The Congregation was founded by Rt. Rev. Monsignor Joseph Kuzhinjalil, a priest of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, and co-founded by Rev. Mother Mary Kallarackal. The first members were Sr. Agnes and Sr. Theresa.

Pontifical Status

In 1998, the Congregation received Pontifical Status, affirming its recognition and mission within the universal Church.

Founders of Daughters of Mary

Our Journey Through Time

1938

Foundation

The Congregation was established on May 8, 1938, in Marthandam, Kanyakumari District

1998

Pontifical Status

Received Pontifical Status from the Holy See, affirming its recognition in the universal Church

1987

St. Joseph's Province

St. Joseph's Province was established as the first province bifurcated from the Congregation

Present

Global Presence

Operating 172 houses and 30 service centers, serving in 56 dioceses across India and abroad

Our Growth & Expansion

Current Presence

Today, the Congregation is organized into six provinces:

  • St. Joseph's Province, Marthandam
  • St. Mary's Province, Pongumoodu
  • Nirmala Province, Venniyoor
  • Kristuraja Province, Punjab
  • Mary Matha Province, Bathery
  • Amala Province, Chanda, Maharashtra

Global Mission

The DM sisters serve in dioceses of the Syro-Malankara, Syro-Malabar, and Latin Churches, as well as in international missions across Europe, America, and Africa.

With 1,037 professed sisters, we continue to expand our mission of service and evangelization.

1,037
Professed Sisters
172
Houses
30
Service Centers
56
Dioceses Served

Our Apostolic Ministries

Committed to promoting Christian unity and witnessing holistic Christian faith

Pastoral Ministry

Proclaiming the Gospel through pastoral care, catechesis, and mission outreach

Educational Ministry

Forming young minds through value-based education and holistic development

Healing Ministry

Providing compassionate care in hospitals and healthcare centers

Social Outreach

Empowering communities through social service programs and development initiatives

Ecumenical Initiatives

Promoting Christian unity among non-Catholic Churches

Retreat Centers

Providing spiritual renewal through retreats and media ministry