Chennai, the historic city where St. Thomas the Apostle was martyred for proclaiming the Gospel, became home to the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence with the opening of our mission on 25 January 2002. The mission began in a rented house on James Street, Poonamallee, offered by the Servants of Charity.

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Our Beginnings

Since 2002, our community in Chennai has served as both a Postulants’ and Students’ House, nurturing young vocations and supporting their growth in religious life. It was the study House. The Candidates and the sisters went for Professional studies like Bachelor’s Degree and studies pertaining Special Education. The sisters and candidates also took evening tuitions for the young boys and girls from the surrounding Village.

The first Sisters entrusted with this mission were:

• Sr. Scholastica Elias

• Sr. Powlin Mary 

• Sr. Savariammal

 

During the early years, the Sisters actively collaborated with the Don Guanella Rehabilitation Centre run by our Guanellian Fathers, serving there for two years. In addition, Sr. Savariammal volunteered her time and services at a center called “Friends in Need”, providing care and support to the vulnerable. 

 

A New Home: Sacred Heart Illam, Thirumullaivoyal

On 24 October 2006, a new house was blessed in Thirumullaivoyal, Chennai. Dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, the new house was named Sacred Heart Illam, symbolizing love, compassion, and commitment to service.

Community Members (2007)

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• Sr. Savariammal 

• Sr. Shanthi

• Sr. Loyola

• Sr. Arockia Mary. S

 

Service in Don Bosco Nursery School

Responding to the invitation of the Diocese, the Sisters of the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence began their mission at Don Bosco Nursery School which had just started in June 2009. At that time, the school was in its infancy, with just five children and one helper. Recognizing the potential for growth and the need for committed service, the Diocese entrusted the sisters with the responsibility of leading and nurturing the institution.

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Sr. Roseline was appointed as Principal on 1st July 2009, marking the beginning of the sisters’ dedicated involvement in the school’s development. Since then, our sisters have faithfully served as Principal and teaching roles, tirelessly working to enhance the quality of education and holistic formation of the children. Their unwavering commitment and loving presence have transformed Don Bosco Nursery School into a well-regarded institution, admired by all in the surrounding.

 

Our Apostolate in Chennai

At Sacred Heart Illam, our mission is deeply integrated with the life of the local parish and the needs of the surrounding community. Our apostolic activities include:

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Parish and Community Ministry

• Collaboration in pastoral activities with the Parish Priest

• Active involvement in the Parish Counseling Committee

• Animating Basic Christian Community ( Anbiayam ) gatherings

• Providing adult catechism and preparation for marriage

 

Educational and Social Services

• Teaching and support at Don Bosco School, under the Diocese

• Operating a tuition centre for local students to promote education

• Running tailoring classes for skill development and women's empowerment

 

Youth and Family Outreach

• Organizing youth gatherings to engage and guide the young in faith and values

• Regular house visits, offering prayer, comfort, and companionship

• Visiting the sick to provide medical assistance and help in receiving the Sacrament of Anointing. 

 

 

At Sacred Heart Illam, we strive to be the compassionate heart of Christ in action—reaching out with care, forming young vocations, and responding to the spiritual and physical needs of the people around us. Inspired by our Founder, St. Louis Guanella, we continue our mission of love, dignity, and divine providence in the city of Chennai.