Where are we

The Institute was founded in 1821 in Lyon, France, and developed beyond there to schools, both boarding and day, throughout rural France. Following its foundation in 1821, the Institute expanded beyond Lyon with the establishment of schools, both boarding and day, across rural France. In 1846, the first missionaries left France to establish a school and orphanage in Mobile, Alabama, USA.  The community rapidly grew and responded to requests of the Church from around the world.  Today there are more than 100 institutions in 27 countries, serving over 100,000 young people as well as their families and the wider Church.

Our apostolate today includes formal education at all levels as well as vocational schools and social and developmental programs.  In all these ministries, we seek to make the love of God known through our presence and mission.