Because woman and children are those most affected by the negative aspects of globalization, they will be the focus of our action for justice. The example of Father Gailhac and our first sisters inspires us to adopt this perspective and to take specific action, whatever our ministry. (2001 General Chapter Document)

Protecting the rights of all people, particularly those of women and children, is and has always been a vital aspect of RSHM mission. Our Founder Jean Gailhac, as a newly ordained priest, was the chaplain of the civil and military hospital in the city of Beziers, where he came in contact with the most needy in his city. Especially concerned by the plight of the women who had no social or family support to assist them, he dedicated himself to helping them to improve their situation and that of their children.

As we look at our world today, we see that women and children have the least access to education, jobs and just wages, medical care and legal rights. For this reason, at our most recent General Chapter, we chose to focus our action for justice on woman and children.

Our sisters minister to women and children through education, through organizations that help the immigrants and the homeless, through community and diocesan based organizations, in nursing and health care, and through legal services.

Aware of the need to educate ourselves and others, we sponsor symposia and workshops about the problems facing women and children.

Western American Province Symposium 2003

Affirmations from Western American Province Symposium
2003 : Building Global Solidarity

Western American Province Forum on Women 2004

Eastern American Province Day 2005 on the Empowerment of Women

Western American Province Symposium 2005
on the Trafficking of Women