One in Christ, United in Mission
“Go and make the disciples of all nations” (Mathew 28:19). As Franciscan Sisters of the
Immaculate Heart of Mary, this word of Jesus is our call. Far from home but at home in
mission, we live this command in Dennison, Ohio with joy and simplicity. With the support
of the Diocese of Columbus, we make little disciples through our prayer, service, and love,
carrying the Immaculate Heart of Mary to every heart we meet.
As Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we came to the Diocese of Columbus
with a simple mission – to serve and educate the catholic children by our presence. Today,
as we celebrate the 100th world Mission Sunday on October 18, 2026, with the theme “One
in Christ, United in Mission” given by Pope Leo XIV, we want to share with joy how the
Diocese of Columbus helped our missionary activities to grow and bear fruit. When we
received the invitation from the diocese to serve here in Ohio, it was a moment of grace.
We left our homes with trust in Divine providence. From the first day, the Diocese did not
just invite us, it took full responsibility for our Mission. We can truly say, we are very blessed
and everything is provided for the mission.
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The Diocese provided a Home and a family for our Mission
The greatest help was that the diocese provided everything we need to live our consecrated
life to accomplish our mission. Our residence, our daily needs everything is taken care of by
the Diocese and the generosity of the faithful. Because of this, we can focus completely on
our mission.
The Diocese provided the Vineyard – The children and the parishes
The Diocese opened the doors of parishes and the schools for us. The main purpose of our
presence here is to educate catholic Children by being among them. The Diocese helped by
assigning us to ministries where we can meet children daily. We teach religion, help in
schools, and animate the rosary and devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Through
our habit, our prayer, and our simple presence, children learn what it means to give their
life to God. This collaboration is possible only because the diocese trusts us and gives us this
platform.
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The Diocese provided voice for our Mission
As Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we are grateful to the Diocese of
Columbus for helping us in our mission appeal. With the generous support of the Diocese,
we are able to help our sisters who serve in Africa, bringing Christ’s love, education, and
hope to the poorest. This support truly makes us one family in Christ, united in mission from
Ohio to Africa. Our mission is simple. But this simple presence is made fruitful only because
the Diocese of Columbus stands behind us, provides for us, and believe in us. We are deeply
grateful to Bishop Earl Fernandes, our pastor Fr. Jeff, our school communities and our
parishioners.
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Psalm 126:3).
We are truly grateful to the diocese of Columbus for guiding and supporting us in all the
ways. From the beginning, your love and care helped us to grow in our Franciscan vocation
and serve joyfully. We thank God for this family of faith that walks with us every day.
