Our History
From Glasgow to Nigeria — a journey of faith and service
Heritage
Our History
The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception is a religious institute with pontifical right founded in Glasgow, Scotland in 1847 by Sr. Adelaide Vaast and Sr. Veronica Cordier. They both came from the Franciscan monastery of Our Lady of the Angel, Tourcoing, France with the aim of providing care and sound education to the children of Glasgow.
Sister Veronica was left as the sole foundress after Sister Adelaide's premature death from cholera. Over the years, the institute spread to England, the Republic of Ireland, Nigeria, Italy, the Republic of Kenya, the United States of America, and Barbados.
We live by the rule and life of the brothers and sisters of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis of Assisi. As sisters in the Franciscan penitential tradition, we commit ourselves to living out our vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, and strive for a fuller expression of our baptismal call to conversion.
Timeline of Our Journey
Foundation in Glasgow
The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception was founded in Glasgow, Scotland by Sr. Adelaide Vaast and Sr. Veronica Cordier, coming from the Franciscan monastery of Our Lady of the Angel, Tourcoing, France.
Papal Approval
Pope Pius IX approved the first Constitution — the same year as the proclamation of the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception. At the Pope's request, Franciscan and Marian spiritualities were joined.
Nigerian Mission Begins
At the invitation of Most Rev. Owen McCoy, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, four sisters came from Scotland to open the Nigerian foundation in Isale-Aro, Osogbo.
Africa Province Established
With the growing number of Nigerian indigenous sisters, the Africa Province (including Kenya) was established with headquarters in Osogbo, Osun State.
Nigeria Province Created
Due to a further increase in indigenous Nigerian sisters, the Nigeria Province was formally created with headquarters at Badore-Ajah, Lagos State.
Nationwide Presence
We now serve in 11 dioceses and archdioceses across Nigeria — in schools, hospitals, caring for orphaned children, people with special needs, HIV/AIDS patients, and more.