The Congregation of the Sisters of Mount Calvary

About Us

The Sisters of Mount Calvary (SMC) in India are a living extension of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Refuge in Mount Calvary, founded in 1631 in Genoa, Italy by St. Virginia Centurione Bracelli (1587-1651). Guided by the charism of Mary “Refuge of Calvary,” the Sisters in India have combined contemplative fidelity to the Paschal Mystery with active service to the poorest and most vulnerable. This history traces their arrival, growth, ministries, formation houses, and the spiritual heart that shapes their service.

History

St. Virginia Centurione Bracelli, daughter of George Centurione of Genoa, experienced a radical conversion to a life of service following widowhood and a mystical call in which Our Lady at the foot of the Cross entrusted her with care for the suffering poor.From that call grew the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of the the Refuge in Mount Calvary, whose spirit emphasizes presence at the “Calvary’s” of human suffering through humility, poverty, and devoted service.

Ministries

Institutions

Gallery

Messages

Sr.M.Speranza Madassery
Mother General

“I pray that God may grant me the first grace: to love and serve Him with all my heart and strength; fur this is my desire.”
– St. Virginia Centurione Bracelli
The Sisters of Our Lady of the Refuge in Mount Calvary was founded in Genoa, Italy, in 1631 by St. Virginia Centurione Dracelli (1587-1651), a woman of deep faith, courage, and compession. Guided by her vision, the Congregation is dedicated to serving the Church and society through prayer, formation, and apostolic works, with a special commitment to the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized.

Sr.M.Seena Palattykkonathan
Regional Superior

Rooted in the timeless charism of our foundress, St. Virginia Centurione Bracelli, the Indian Mission. of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Refuge in Mount Calvary stands as a testimony of God’s unlailing grace. For over 50 years, our sisters have been guided by prayer and strengthened by community, extending the compassionate presence of Christ to those most in need. Our journey in India has been a living story of growth and service. What began as a small act of faith has blossomed into a vibrant network of ministries in education, healthcare, and social and pastoral care.