The Learning Center for
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at Our Lady of Grace

The St. Joseph House: A Dream Realized After 50 Years

The Sisters of Our Lady of Grace Convent, the Little Workers of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, are thrilled to announce the acquisition of the beautiful stone Craftsman-style house, built in 1912, adjacent to their main campus. This significant milestone marks the realization of a 50-year dream for the Sisters and is a testament to their unwavering commitment to education, service and community.

The newly named St. Joseph House will serve as a space for the Sisters to expand their mission of education, spiritual formation, charitable works and community building. The Sisters have dedicated their lives to nurturing faith and providing support to the greater Stamford community through education and community outreach.

“The St. Joseph House is not just about acquiring a building; it represents our commitment to continue serving and educating the community with love and dedication,” said Sister Gesuina Gencarelli, Mother Superior for the Sisters. “The St. Joseph House will allow us to enhance and expand our programs and provide a welcoming space for our extended community seeking educational and spiritual growth and support through lifelong learning.”

For decades, the Sisters have been an essential part of the Stamford community. They have provided faith-based education and care to children and youth, along with spiritual support to the wider community. Their work has extended beyond Connecticut to various locations across the United States and internationally, including schools and convents in Italy, Argentina, Albania, and India.

St. Joseph: A Patron, Builder, and Protector

The story of St. Joseph is one of quiet strength and unwavering faith. As the earthly father of Jesus and the husband of the Blessed Mother, he embodies virtues that resonate deeply with the mission and spirit of the Sisters of Our Lady of Grace Convent, the Little Workers of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

St. Joseph exemplified humility and dedication—qualities the Sisters strive to emulate in their daily lives. Just as he accepted his role without hesitation, supporting Mary and nurturing Jesus, the Sisters embrace their calling to serve, educate, nurture and support others in their community and beyond. This commitment to service is especially significant as they celebrate the acquisition of the St. Joseph House—a beautiful stone Craftsman-style home from 1912 that symbolizes not just a physical space but also a sanctuary for their mission and a reflection of their storied past.

The Connection to the Sisters

The Sisters’ foundation in the rugged backdrop of southern Italy in the late 19th century mirrors St. Joseph's humble beginnings. Both faced challenges with love and resilience. Founded by Blessed Monsignor Francesco Maria Greco and Venerable Sister Maria Teresa DeVincenti, the Little Workers arose from a deep need for education and care in a struggling community. St. Joseph, too, faced uncertainty, yet his trust in God’s plan never wavered.

Like Jesus and Mary, St. Joseph also serves as an inspiration for the Sisters' mission to educate the body, the mind, the spirit, and the heart. His life was dedicated to serving others, reflecting the Sisters' commitment to education and compassion. Just as St. Joseph nurtured Jesus, the Little Workers cultivate a love of learning through their charism.

A Symbol of Faith in Action

St. Joseph represents the heart of the Little Workers' mission as the patron saint of workers, families, and builders—central themes in their service. The St. Joseph House will be a place for education, community engagement and spiritual growth. The Sisters envision it as a haven where they can continue to nurture their mission in lifelong education, drawing inspiration from St. Joseph’s example of dedication to family and faith.

A Legacy of Love

In celebrating this milestone, the Sisters honor St. Joseph’s legacy—a foundation built on love, service, steadfast faith, hard work, and devotion to family and community. Just as he guided his family through trials with grace, the Sisters continue to guide those they serve and educate, embodying his spirit of love and compassion.

By establishing the St. Joseph House, they create a space for teaching and serving in God’s love—allowing them to deepen their impact on those they educate.

The St. Joseph House symbolizes the continuation of the Sisters' commitment to their mission—a place where the teachings of Jesus can flourish within the community. They are not just celebrating a new house; they are embracing a “home” filled with learning and purpose, inspired by St. Joseph. As they move forward, they carry his spirit of service and love, ready to make a lasting impact on all those they encounter.

This beautiful 1912 stone Craftsman-style house is more than just a space; it is a symbol of the Sisters’ commitment to service and a place where they can continue to inspire others in faith and love.

The Heart and Hub of Community

The St. Joseph House also embodies the spirit of collaboration and care that defines the Little Workers. This “home” will be a gathering place for prayer, reflection, education, and service—a sanctuary where Jesus’ teachings can flourish. Inspired by St. Joseph’s example, the Sisters will expand their vital work in educating the community, creating a foundation rooted in love, faith, and education.

As they embody St. Joseph's spirit, the Sisters invite everyone to join them in honoring his legacy through acts of kindness and commitment to serving others.

With the St. Joseph House marking their next chapter, the Sisters are ready to forge ahead in faithfulness and service in every act of compassion and dedication they undertake. Together, they honor Jesus and Mary, and also St. Joseph by embodying his virtues in their daily lives—working tirelessly for the community they serve just as he did for his family so long ago.