The Spanish Group currently consists of 24 Helpers across three communities located in San Sebastian, Madrid and Valladolid.
The group’s origins date back to 1903, when a number of Sisters were forced to leave France due to the growing rejection of religious life. To protect themselves and the congregation, several Helpers sought refuge in different European countries, including Spain. The first Spanish community was founded in San Sebastián, near the French border, at Villa Cristeta, which remains active more than 120 years later, housing 14 Sisters, two of whom reside in a retirement home.
Though political circumstances initially drove the Sisters to Spain, they soon became involved in their new environment by caring for the sick and the poor in their homes.
In the 1940s, the first Spanish-born Helpers joined the Institute, inspiring other young women to follow and marking a period of growth for the congregation in Spain.
The 25 Sisters currently members of the Spanish Group are settled in urban areas, living within communities made up exclusively of Helper Sisters. The rhythms of their community life vary, including liturgical moments and numerous missions serving the most vulnerable.
Despite their age, these women remain full of hope, driven by the belief that a better world is possible.
“We are women who dream of the Kingdom of God becoming a reality in every corner of the world; that is why our main mission remains the building of fraternity in our environment.”
Our missions
Present in Madrid, San Sebastián, and Valladolid, the Helpers work daily alongside migrants and individuals deprived of their freedom. They also collaborate with local parishes, offering various forms of spiritual and personal accompaniment to those in need.
French Sisters are forced to leave France and settle in San Sebastián, where they establish the first Spanish community
The first Spanish Sisters join the Institute of the Helpers of the Souls in Purgatory