Sisters of the Infant Jesus

Gazing upon the unassuming chapel of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus, one might wonder about the remarkable stories hidden within its walls. The Sisters of the Infant Jesus, a Catholic religious institute dedicated to teaching, have a rich history intertwined with Singapore’s educational landscape. Their presence in Singapore dates back to February 1854, when three sisters, led by Reverend Mother Mathilde Raclot, arrived from Penang. The Sisters of the Infant Jesus established their convent on Victoria Street. Quickly realizing the needs of the community, they established not only a school, but also a Convent Orphanage and a Home for Abandoned Babies. Mother Mathilde, a resourceful woman, taught needlework to the nuns and students. They sold their handiwork to the wives of local Chinese merchants, raising funds to support their charitable work. The school flourished under their care. Within a decade, enrollment soared to 300 students, with secondary education commencing in 1905. The Sisters of the Infant Jesus expanded their reach, eventually overseeing eleven CHIJ schools across Singapore, including CHIJ Primary and Secondary (Toa Payoh), CHIJ Katong Primary and Katong Convent Secondary, and CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School. These institutions are a lasting legacy of their dedication to education. The original convent, a sprawling complex encompassing a full city block, was later redeveloped. Today, CHIJmes stands as a high-end retail complex. The deconsecrated church, a poignant reminder of the Sisters’ early endeavors, remains a popular attraction. As you stand before the Sisters of the Infant Jesus chapel, remember the unwavering dedication of these women who shaped the lives of countless children. Their legacy of service and education continues to resonate in Singapore today.