Founded in 17th-century France, the Sisters of St. Joseph first came to the Erie Diocese more than 160 years ago to respond to the needs of the times – to minister to the sick, teach children, and serve in various ministries. Our Sisters established Saint Vincent Hospital, Spencer Hospital, Saint Mary’s Home of Erie, Villa Maria Elementary School, Villa Maria Academy, Villa Maria College, St. Patrick’s Haven, and numerous other ministries.

Everything we do is in response to the ever-changing needs of our world. Our ministries change with the times and are different today than in the late 1800s when we first arrived in the Erie Diocese. What never changes is our spirituality and desire to be sisters of the neighborhood, working to build relationships and create unity.