Could you imagine a society devoted to easing suffering? That’s precisely what the Society of Helpers in Tokyo represents. It stands as a beacon of compassion.
The Society of Helpers is a congregation of Catholic sisters. They span across 24 countries. These sisters dedicate their lives to God. Their mission focuses on helping those in need. They work tirelessly to address the suffering of people. They target those wounded in their human dignity. Helpers use their unique gifts. They respond to a shared mission. Their goal is to help in all manner of good.
Founded in 1856 by Eugenie Smet, the Helpers are truly global. Smet, known as Mary of Providence, intended them to be “Helpers for the whole world.” They live in awareness of an ever-changing world. They work with people where they are. The sisters strive to move toward a brighter future.
The Helper charism blends Ignatian spirituality. It combines it with Mary of Providence’s mission. This mission is to serve all who suffer. It focuses particularly on the marginalized. It reaches out to the disenfranchised and forgotten.
Mary of Providence was passionate about bringing God’s love to those who suffered most. She chose the Souls in Purgatory as the focus for her spiritual work. She chose the forgotten and abandoned in this world as the focus for her earthly ministry. The institute’s founding is celebrated on January 19, 1856.
Eugénie Smet’s faith led her to the revelation of God as Providence. She wished to “go to the depths of Purgatory to the utmost ends of the earth” to fulfill her mission. In 1856, she moved to Paris. There, she established the Institute of the Helpers of the Holy Souls.
More than a century and a half later, Mother Mary of Providence’s legacy includes 103 Helper communities in 24 countries. Helpers emulate their foundress’ unwavering spirit. They commit to follow Jesus Christ. They help in all manner of good. They bring their unique gifts to their shared mission.
The Society of Helpers demonstrates Mary of Providence’s desire. They live in awareness of God’s presence in our world. Their mission is serving those most in need. The Society of Helpers’ core values include community. They also value mission, social justice, Ignatian spirituality, and independence. The sisters are a testament to unwavering commitment. They provide help and hope.