Działalność opiekuńcza Zgromadzenia Sióstr Służebniczek Najświętszej Maryi Panny Niepokalanie Poczętej w Małopolsce Wschodniej w II połowie XIX wieku

Nursing Activity of the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Eastern Lesser Poland in the Late 19th Century

Abstract

In the vast majority of establishments, the relations between the sisters and the local community were correct or good. They were valued for their dedication, modesty, diligence and perseverance. Huge hopes were placed everywhere about their work in nurseries. It was hoped that the orphanage would not only be a place of care for abandoned, neglected and deprived of Christian upbringing children, but also contribute to raising the spiritual level of parishioners. The vast majority of the orphanages were an exemplary example of cooperation between the handmaid sisters and their parents, founders, as well as local clergy and residents. From the very beginning, the sisters gained the respect and trust of the local population. This was evidenced by the large number of children attending nurseries and the help in running the work in various situations. The sisters' first contact with the inhabitants took place right after their arrival or during the blessing of the orphanage. The ceremony was an opportunity to present the sisters, explain the purpose of their activities and present the benefits of the operation of the nursery. It was also supposed to shape a positive image of the sisters among the local population, so that they could perform their duties more effectively and not encounter obstacles on the part of the inhabitants. In the vast majority of establishments, the relations between the sisters and the local community were good or very good. They were valued for their dedication, modesty, hard work and perseverance. It was expected that the orphanage would not only be a place of care for abandoned, neglected and deprived of Christian upbringing children, but also contribute to raising the spiritual level of parishioners. In addition, their duties included caring for the sick, catechizing school children, working with youth associated in associations, and church work. During World War I, orphanages played a special role. In the face of the threat, the orphanage was a place where inhabitants sought shelter, help or just comfort at any time of the day. Risking their lives, the sisters hid priests and other people wanted by the Russian soldiers stationed in the town There is no doubt that their ministry was an expression of responsibility for the fate of the child and, in a broader perspective, for the religious and moral condition of the entire society.