Daughters of Mary Immaculate (Chaldean)
Daughters of Mary Immaculate is a Chaldean Catholic apostolic order with patriarchal rights, established in Baghdad on August 7, 1922, during the reign of Patriarch Mar Youssef Emmanuel II Thomas.[1]
Chaldean Sisters was founded by Father Anton Zebouni, born on January 17, 1883, in Mosul, Iraq. Zebouni was ordained a priest on May 15, 1907, by Patriarch Emmanuel II Toma. In the aftermath of World War I, many in Iraq faced poverty and hardship. Father Zebouni, moved by the difficult conditions, sought to create a congregation for women to support the Chaldean community. With permission from the Patriarch, the congregation was established and dedicated to Mary Immaculate.[2]
The order's mission includes a life of contemplative unity with God. The sisters engage in apostolic work and prayer, seeking to discover and follow God's will for the salvation of souls.[3]
History[edit]
The Chaldean Sisters initially aimed to address the crisis of homeless Chaldean youth. In 1927, they founded an orphanage in Baghdad, which was later relocated due to security issues. The orphanage eventually settled in Alqosh. Over the years, the congregation has grown to nearly 100 sisters serving in various locations, including Iraq, Lebanon, Rome, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, Detroit, Chicago, Arizona, Turlock, and San Diego.[4]
The Chaldean Sisters have been instrumental in various educational and social services, including running schools, orphanages, and retirement homes. Their commitment to education and social service has had a significant impact on the communities they serve. In 2022, the Chaldean Sisters celebrated their 100th anniversary with a fundraiser event to support their education expenses and the formation and novitiate home in Farmington Hills, Michigan.[5]
The order is known for its dedication to prayer, community life, and service, guided by their motto, “With Mary to the Highest,” emphasizing humility and dedication in their service.[6] The Chaldean Sisters continue to be a vital part of the Chaldean Catholic community, contributing to the spiritual and social well-being of the people they serve.
External links[edit]
- Official website
- Daughters of Mary Immaculate - St Thomas Chaldean Catholic Church
- Religious Communities - The Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego
References[edit]
- ^ "About Us – Daughters of Mary Immaculate". Retrieved 2024-06-01.
- ^ "Daughters of Mary Immaculate". Retrieved 2024-06-01.
- ^ "About Us – Daughters of Mary Immaculate". Retrieved 2024-06-01.
- ^ "Daughters of Mary Immaculate: Chaldean Sisters Celebrate 100 Years". Retrieved 2024-06-01.
- ^ "Chaldean Sisters 100th Anniversary Dinner". Retrieved 2024-06-01.
- ^ "Vocations – Chaldean Sisters, Daughters of Mary Immaculate Conception". Retrieved 2024-06-01.