Over Two Centuries of Service:

For more than 200 years, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth (SCNs) have dedicated ourselves to education, health care, and social work. Guided by the values of simplicity, humility, and charity, we live out our motto, Caritas Christi Urget Nos – “The Love of Christ Impels Us.”

Founding and Early Years

Founded in 1812 by Mother Catherine Spalding and Bishop John Baptist David, the SCNs began our work in Bardstown, Kentucky. In response to the need for Catholic education, Catherine Spalding, a young woman from Maryland, became the first superior of the Congregation. Under her leadership, the SCNs opened our first school in 1814 on St. Thomas Farm. Eight years later, the Congregation moved to Nazareth, where we built a new school that would soon accommodate 100 students.

Expanding in Education and Healthcare

Mother Catherine’s leadership extended beyond Bardstown. In 1831, she opened Presentation Academy in Louisville, the city’s first Catholic school. The Sisters also cared for cholera patients during an epidemic in 1832, which led to the founding of St. Vincent Orphanage and St. Joseph Infirmary. By the mid-20th century, the Sisters had expanded our influence across two colleges, over 30 high schools, and more than 100 elementary schools. We also opened six orphanages and 12 hospitals, continuing to care for the vulnerable.

A Legacy of Responding in Times of Need

The SCNs have a long history of stepping forward in times of crisis. During the Civil War, the Sisters tended to wounded soldiers from both sides. In the 1980s, we were among the first in Kentucky to care for AIDS patients, opening our nursing home to those affected and helping to establish the House of Ruth, a nonprofit for women and children living with AIDS.

Global Ministries

The Sisters began our international ministries in the 1940s, expanding to India, Nepal, Belize, and Botswana. In India, SCNs founded hospitals, clinics, and schools, focusing on programs for women, children, and people with disabilities. In Belize, the SCNs provided education, social services, and collaborated on building homes for those in need. Our work in Nepal includes schools and empowerment programs for marginalized families.

In 2000, the SCNs extended our reach to Botswana, where we provide health care, youth services, and AIDS care, particularly in regions hardest hit by the epidemic. We continue to serve in ministries throughout the U.S. and globally, most recently entering Kenya.

A Growing Congregation

The SCNs merged with the Vincentian Sisters of Charity in 2008, expanding our ministries and outreach. As we move into our third century, the Sisters remain committed to our mission of justice, serving the poor, empowering women, and caring for the earth. May our work continue to be a source of compassion and transformation across the world.