The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (FIHM) Congregation was established in Pondicherry, India, with a profound mission to serve the marginalized and vulnerable in society. Inspired by Gospel values of compassion, care, and human dignity, the sisters began their transformative work.
The Congregation extended its mission to Vinnarasi Illam, Okkur, marking the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to serving the people of the region through social outreach and formation ministries.
The FIHM sisters in Okkur engaged in comprehensive community programs including women's empowerment initiatives, self-help groups, tuition centers for children, vocational skills training, and health awareness campaigns. They also operated a formation house to nurture young women in their religious vocations.
Witnessing the profound challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions—many marginalized, neglected, and often abandoned—the FIHM sisters discerned a deeper calling to respond to these emerging needs with healing and rehabilitation services.
With faith and resilience, the sisters established the FIHM Services for Mental Health Care and Rehabilitation Centre in Okkur, an extension of their psychiatric services at Arockia Hospital, Sarugani. This center became a compassionate response to the growing mental health crisis in the region.
The journey of the FIHM sisters in Okkur stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to serve the "broken-hearted" (Psalm 147:3) and to bring holistic healing to those most in need.
Through their dedicated service at Vinnarasi Illam, the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary have touched countless lives, restoring dignity, stability, and the hope of reintegration into family and community life for those they serve.