The story of the Sisters of Providence is a testament to resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving the most vulnerable. Their journey began in 1843 in Montréal, Quebec, with Blessed Émilie Tavernier-Gamelin, a woman whose life was marked by profound trust in Providence and a deep love for the poor.
The Beginnings
Émilie Tavernier-Gamelin’s early life was filled with personal tragedy. After losing her husband and three young sons to illness, she channeled her grief into founding the Sisters of Providence under the guidance of Bishop Ignace Bourget. Her commitment to helping those in need earned the congregation its name, as the people of Montréal began referring to them as “providence.”
Expansion to Western Canada
On June 23, 1909, four Sisters of Providence—Sister Georgie, Sister Louis de Gonzague, Sister Maxima, and Sister Marie-Clarisse—embarked on a journey to Western Canada. Accompanied by Mother Anaclet, the Superior General. Father Albert Lacombe invited them to settle in Midnapore, now part of Calgary. Their mission was to operate the Father Lacombe Home, a shelter for the elderly and abandoned children.
Life in Midnapore
Upon their arrival, the Sisters lived in a tiny white cottage with three beds and an attic, sharing their space with a destitute blind man and an orphan. Despite the cramped conditions, their spirit of service remained undeterred. After nearly a year and a half, they moved to the newly built Lacombe Home on October 3, 1910, situated on land donated by Senator Patrick Burns in what is now Fish Creek Park.
Sustaining the Mission
The Sisters of Providence continued to expand their missions across Western Canada, relying on donations and funds from “begging trips” made on horseback. It wasn’t until 1961 that they began receiving public funds from the government to support their operations.
A Lasting Impact
The legacy of the Sisters of Providence is woven into the fabric of Calgary. Their unwavering dedication to serving the most vulnerable has left an indelible mark, inspiring generations to continue their mission of compassion and service.
In writing this blog post I was struck by the incredible journey and enduring legacy of the Sisters of Providence. Their story is a powerful reminder of the impact that compassion and dedication can have on a community. What aspect of their legacy resonates most with you?
And did you know that the tiny white cottage that they lived in is still here.
Written by Pamila Fonseka, Philanthropy Leader
