Origins and Foundation

The Sisters of Our Lady of the Garden (OLG) is a religious institute of pontifical right, founded by St. Anthony Maria Gianelli in 1829 in Chiavari, Italy, with its headquarters in Rome. Inspired by Gianelli’s vigilant and evangelical, the Congregation began its mission by caring for orphaned children and responding to the urgent needs of its time.

Global Mission Today

Today, the Sisters extend their mission across four continents, serving in education, healthcare, community development, youth and women empowerment, and care for vulnerable groups such as street children, migrant children, and rag pickers, with a special focus on the underprivileged.

Arrival in India

In 1980, the Sisters brought their mission to India, establishing their headquarters in Indore. Since then, they have dedicated themselves to uplifting the poor and marginalized across various states in India.

Historical Voyage to India

The Sisters of Our Lady of the Garden took off a historical voyage to the land of India on 1979. It was on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Institute the governing body under the dynamic leadership of then Mother Superior Rosario Zanini, responded to the invitation of Rt. Rev. Bishop George Anathil, the late Bishop of Indore and Rt. Rev. Bishop Abraham Viruthakulangara, then Bishop of Khandwa decided to sow the Gianellian Charism in the sacred soil of India.

Early Communities and Mission Work

The 1st community was opened at Khandwa on 20th Aug. 1980 and 2nd community at Sonkatch in the diocese of Indore on 12th Sep. 1980. The pioneering sisters started their mission in the remote parts of Madhya Pradesh to the neediest and under privileged people. Unyielding to the initial difficulties and challenges they pressed forward with strong determination and commitment to sow the Gianellian Charism and nurture it with great love and care.

Formation of the Indian Province

In 2005, a new province for the entire India was established at Indore. In January 2019, as part of the restructuring and revitalization of the Institute, three communities from the USA and two from Papua New Guinea were incorporated into the Indore Province, which was then named St. Mary’s Province. After four years, the mission in Papua New Guinea was concluded, and the sisters returned to India.

Current Reach and Service Now our province has 21 communities with 134 sister rendering their service in India other 26 sisters rendering their service in other countries.