A spiritual family
The larger religious family of Saint John Eudes
The legacy of Saint John Eudes has inspired communities that continue, each in its own way, a mission of mercy, welcome, and service.
Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd
In 1641, Saint John Eudes founded the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity to welcome and accompany women in danger or seeking a new way of life. In 1831, Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier established a contemplative branch, then founded the Good Shepherd Sisters in 1835 to extend this mission internationally. The two congregations reunited in 2014 as the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd. Local ministries include Good Shepherd Shelter in Los Angeles and Casa Eudes in Tijuana.
Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd ↗ Good Shepherd Sisters ↗
Little Sisters of the Poor
Jeanne Jugan was a consecrated Eudist associate in Brittany. In 1839, she took an elderly, blind, and seriously ill woman into her home, then devoted her life to welcoming poor older people. Other associates joined her, and the Little Sisters of the Poor were founded. As Sister Mary of the Cross, Jeanne later endured obscurity and humble household work; her founding role was not recognized during her lifetime. The Little Sisters also serve in San Pedro, California.
Eudist Servants of the 11th Hour
Mary Clarke Brenner, later known as Mother Antonia, began a full-time ministry among people held at La Mesa Prison in Tijuana in 1976. Together with Father John Howard, C.J.M., and members of St. James’ Mission Circle, she shared a spirituality of radical mercy. In 2003, she founded the Eudist Servants of the 11th Hour for women aged 40 and over who wished to give themselves in service. In Tijuana, Casa Campos de San Miguel serves prisoners and their families, supports women leaving prison, and offers medical care; Casa Corazón de María is the community’s formation house and headquarters. The Servants also operate a donation pickup site in San Diego.