In North America

On July 16, 1908, the first four missionary Salesian Sisters arrived in New York City. They settled in Paterson, NJ, to begin their ministry with the children of Italian immigrants. 

 

The beginnings were challenging as their first home consisted of three empty rooms and a partial roof. They had no food of their own, nor a stove, and their diet was sparse; but the dire situation surprised none of them. They were open and available to any work and sacrifice that the Lord directed their way - all for the fruitfulness of His mission and for the salvation of souls. For many years there would even be sisterly rivalry to see who could manage with the least for herself so the others could have more, who could do extra work so the others could have a bit of rest. With courage, self-sacrifice, and creativity they were able to overcome the challenges of totally giving one’s life to the Lord in a new land. 

 

God blessed their sacrifices, and the Sisters were able to start schools and youth centers for the Christian education of the young, not only in Paterson but throughout the United States and Canada. Today the Salesian Sisters of the Province of St. Joseph can be found in New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Florida, Louisiana, Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia.