History
The Family of the Franciscans of the Immaculate, Friars, Sisters, Poor Clares, and the Third Order members known as the MIM (the Mission of the Immaculate Mediatrix), was founded by two holy Italian priests: Fr. Stefano Maria Manelli and Fr. Gabriele Maria Pellettieri. It was the Immaculate who willed the existence of this religious family and chose these two holy friar priests to be its initiators.
The Contemplative Communities of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate (“I Colombai”, that is, “Dove Houses”, as we call our Contemplative Houses) are a gift of inestimable value. They are the secret but powerful wellspring for the vitality of the Institute. The Contemplative Franciscans of the Immaculate do the work of Moses when he prayed on the mountain with his arms raised.
The Franciscans of the Immaculate were founded by the two Franciscan friars, Fr. Stefano Maria Manelli and Fr. Gabriel Maria Pellettieri. The name, Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate, was actually chosen by St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe who, in his time, foresaw a future feminine branch of the Friars who would also live this vow of total consecration to the Immaculate.
Read more: The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate in the Heart of the Church
AirMaria AirMaria site is an online video blog maintained by the Friars of the Immaculate in USA. It provides to general public video clips of homilies, live conferences, catechism and spiritual reflections.
MaryMediatrix.com This is the official site of the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate in the USA. The site includes information on their different communities and religious life, online bookstore and Catholic publication.
Ave Maria! If you have any questions or would like to come and visit, please write or call us:
Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate
House of the Immaculate "Most Sacred Hearts and St. Anthony" - 106 Bullard Street, New Bedford, MA 02746
Tel: 508-990-0335
You can also contact us via email by using this form. Ave Maria!
Visit our online magazine, Missio Immaculatae Int'l, a Marian-missionary magazine which features inspiring articles on the Church, Our Lady and the Catholic Faith. Ideal for parish and family catechism. A must subscription for families to deepen their faith. Online subscription is also available.