Franciscan Sisters of the
Immaculate Heart of Mary
The congregation behind our school — educating and empowering women since 16 October 1844.
Born from a felt need
At the Diocesan Synod of Pondicherry in 1844, presided over by Mgr. Clément Bonnand, the Vicar Apostolic, the fathers resolved that a congregation of Indian sisters was needed to educate women and give them moral and religious formation alongside secular learning.
Rev. Fr. Louis Savinien Dupuis, MEP, a French missionary, took up this mission despite great opposition. On 16 October 1844 he founded the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Pondicherry — and the very next day, 17 October, opened a school for girls.
Fr. Dupuis guided the congregation for thirty years, instilling simplicity, obedience, humility and service, until his death on 4 June 1874. In 1864 the congregation received canonical approval from Pope Pius IX. Over time it embraced the Franciscan spirit, becoming the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (FIHM).
At a glance
Educating girls is the path to empowering families and transforming society.
Serving with faith and compassion
To educate, empower and uplift women and children through value-based education rooted in the Gospel — with humility, service and care for human dignity.
Education
Schools and colleges with a special focus on the education of girls.
Healthcare
Reaching the sick and suffering with healing and comfort.
Social Work
Uplifting the marginalised and empowering women to be self-reliant.
Pastoral Care
Faith formation and accompaniment in parishes and communities.
From Pondicherry to the world
From its Generalate in Pondicherry, the congregation is organised into provinces and regions across India and beyond, carrying the same flame of love and service across cultures.
The values we live by
Wisdom
Faith
Compassion
Growth
Service
Charity
Devotion
Excellence
FIHM @ Reddiyarpalayam
Immaculate Heart of Mary's Govt. Aided High School carries the founder's dream forward — educating girls here since 1862.