Our Foundation
The Oblates of the Assumption were founded in 1865 in Nîmes, France, by Emmanuel d’Alzon together with Mother Emmanuel-Marie Correnson. Inspired by a deep love for the Church and a strong missionary spirit, they responded generously to the call of God with the prayer: “Thy Kingdom Come” and the availability: “Here I am, send me.”
The Congregation was born from a mission in Bulgaria, where Fr. d’Alzon realized that a female presence was necessary to reach families through education, healthcare, and works of charity. When no existing congregation could take up this mission, he courageously founded a new one.
The first community began in 1865 at Rochebelle near Le Vigan, with a small group of young women from simple backgrounds but generous hearts. Mother Emmanuel-Marie Correnson became their first Superior, forming and guiding them with dedication.
Growth of the Congregation
- Growth in mission: Expansion from Bulgaria into education healthcare and social outreach.
- Growth through challenges: Wars and poverty led to creation of hospitals orphanages and shelters.
- Growth in vocations: Many young women joined to serve God and the poor.
- Growth in spirit: Simplicity courage and trust in God shaped the congregation.
In 1868 missionaries were sent to the East (Adrianople
- present-day Turkey) marking the beginning of international mission work.
Today the congregation has spread to Africa Latin America and Asia becoming a global missionary family.
Historical Development
1865 – Foundation in France
The Oblate Sisters of the Assumption were founded in Nîmes, France, marking the beginning of a missionary congregation rooted in faith and service.
1868 – First Mission to the East
Missionaries were sent to Adrianople (Turkey), expanding beyond France.
Expansion Across Continents
The congregation spread to Africa, Asia, and Latin America, serving in education, healthcare, and pastoral ministry
Mission in Africa
The sisters established strong missions in Africa, focusing on evangelization, health services, and community development.
East Africa Province
The province was established to coordinate mission in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Today
The congregation continues its mission worldwide, serving the poor with love, unity, and dedication.
Mission in East Africa
The East Africa Province plays a vital role in the mission of the congregation.
Sisters serve in schools, parishes, hospitals, and social programs.
Their mission focuses on evangelization, youth empowerment, and human development.
Through collaboration with local communities, they bring hope and transformation.
Mission Gallery
Continuing the Mission
What began as a small seed has become a global congregation.
Faithful to the founders’ vision, the Oblate Sisters continue serving the Church with love, unity, and dedication to the poor.