Sisters of Notre Dame Celebrate 175 Years of Faith and Service

Darjeeling, 20 October, 2025 — The Sisters of Notre Dame celebrated the 175th Jubilee of their Congregation with a solemn Eucharistic celebration filled with gratitude, faith, and joy. The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr Edward Bareto, Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Darjeeling, and concelebrated by various celebrants. The gathering brought together the Sisters, clergy, and faithful to thank God for 175 years of dedicated service in education and pastoral ministry.

Founded in 1850 in Coesfeld, Germany, by Hilligonde Wolbring (Sr Maria Aloysia) and Elisabeth Kühling (Sr Maria Ignatia), the Sisters of Notre Dame began their mission caring for poor and neglected children. Inspired by Bernard Overberg’s educational principles and the spirituality of St Julie Billiart, their work flourished into a global congregation. Today, the Sisters serve in 17 countries, continuing their mission of proclaiming God’s goodness and provident care through education and social outreach.

In India, the Sisters contribute to faith-based education through institutions such as Notre Dame School, Sumbuck (1989), Notre Dame School, Kaijalia (1996), and Notre Dame Academy, Rimbick (1999). The 175th Jubilee, celebrated under the theme “Pilgrims of Gratitude and Hope,” coincides with the Church’s Jubilee of Hope 2025, marking a moment of thanksgiving for the past and renewed commitment to a future of service and hope.

Source: Darjeeling Diocese