Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus facts for kids
The Grey Ursulines are a special group of Catholic sisters. Their official name is the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. They were started in Poland by a woman named Ursula Ledóchowska. Today, there are over 900 sisters in 14 different countries. These sisters work hard to help people in need, especially by offering them chances to learn and get an education.
Contents
A Look Back: The Ursulines' History
How the Ursulines Began
The Grey Ursulines were founded by Ursula Ledóchowska. She wanted to create a community of sisters dedicated to helping others. Her vision led to the growth of this religious group, which now serves people all over the world.
Helping During World War II
During World War II, the Ursuline sisters in Warsaw, Poland, did amazing work. They ran a soup kitchen to feed children who had lost their families or homes. These children were often found alone in central Warsaw.
The sisters also bravely helped Jewish children. They worked to get them special papers that made them seem non-Jewish. They also protected children who looked Jewish and hid them during dangerous German raids.
In 1997, a special organization called Yad Vashem honored Sister Andrzeja Górska. She was recognized as a Righteous Among the Nations. This award is given to people who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. Sister Górska saved many Jewish children by helping them escape from the ghetto. She then took them to safe places run by the Ursuline Sisters across Poland.
Growing Around the World
The Grey Ursulines began to spread their mission beyond Poland. In 1965, they opened their first convent in North America. This was in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
In Canada, the sisters teach the Polish language and culture. They also help keep Polish customs and traditions alive. Many sisters also teach in Canadian elementary and high schools.
As of 2020, there are over 900 Grey Ursuline sisters. They live in about 100 communities across 14 countries. These countries are found on five different continents. You can find them in places like Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Philippines, Poland, Tanzania, and Ukraine. They are also in Belarus, Finland, Bolivia, and Russia.
The main home and a special shrine for St. Ursula Ledóchowska are in Pniewy, Poland. The generalate, which is like their main office, is located in Rome, Italy.
