The Twelve Maidens: The story of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation has its humble beginnings on 10 April 1887, Easter Sunday, in the parish of Rosario Cathedral, Mangalore. On this significant day, Fr. Urban Stein, S.J., brought together twelve young women from the Cathedral parish who were willing to dedicate their time, talents, and lives to serving the needs of the local Church and the people around them.
Fr Stein was deeply aware of the many needs of the parish community. There were sick and suffering people who required care, the elderly and infirm who were often neglected, and families who needed comfort and assistance. He realized that one person alone could not reach everyone. As recorded in the history of the Congregation, Branch of the Vine, Fruit of the Branch, “He needed more eyes to see, more hands to attend to the sick, infirm, aged and neglected too; succour and solace had to be brought to them in the dark corners where they lay.” What Fr Stein could not accomplish by himself, he hoped others would undertake with dedication and compassion.
The twelve young women who responded to his call were educated, zealous, and came from respected families of Mangalore. Inspired by their faith and moved by a sincere desire to serve God and His people, they made a promise of virginity and committed themselves to the service of the local Church. Their decision was remarkable for its time, as they willingly offered their youth, abilities, and personal aspirations for a life of prayer, charity, and service.
Under the guidance of Fr Urban Stein, S.J., this small group gradually took shape as a pious lay association. The members devoted themselves to visiting and caring for the sick, assisting the poor and neglected, and responding to the various spiritual and social needs of the parish community. Their lives became a visible expression of Christian charity and selfless service.
The group was given the name “Company of St. Ursula.” Though Fr. Stein may not have fully realized the significance of what he was beginning, this humble association of twelve dedicated women became the seed from which the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation would eventually grow. Their courageous response to God's call laid the foundation for a spiritual legacy that would extend far beyond the parish of Rosario and continue through generations.
Thus, the story of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation begins not with a large institution or an elaborate plan, but with twelve young women who said “yes” to God, a priest who recognized the needs of his people, and a shared commitment to bring compassion, faith, and service to those who were most in need. Their lives became the first fruits of a congregation whose mission would continue to touch countless lives.
