"LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR."

Auckland Star, Volume XIX, Issue 140, 14 June 1888, Page 8

"LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR."

We are glad to learn that there is a probability of a branch of "The "Little Sisters of the Poor," which has accomplished so much in the cause of Catholic philanthropy establishing themselves in Auckland. Two of the sisters are now in Auckland, and Bishop Luck is endeavouring to arrange on their behalf for the establishment of one of their homes for aged poor. The Society has now under its direction 256 houses in all parts of the world, served by 4,102 "little sisters" and maintaining 29,448 old and destitute males and females. Since the foundation of the Institute of the Little Sisters of the Poor, in tho year 1840 up to December 7th, 1087, lio, fewer than 9,012 old people have closed their mortal career in the peaceful homes provided for them by the Little Sisters. Last year, 1887, the number of deaths in their numerous asylums amounted to 5,602. The Sisters have.4s hoin.es in England, Ireland, and Scotland, 1 in Sydney, 7 in Melbourne, and are now establishing one in Auckland. They receive all comers without distinction of creed, the only condition required for participation in their loving benevolence is old age accompanied by poverty or suffering. From this brief epitome, it will be seen that the Society does noble work of a purely philanthropic kind, and one which has won for them an unsec tarian support wherever they have established themselves. Their houses are largely maintained by collecting and utilising what would otherwise be wasted—the surplus victuals from hotels, ships, etc. Taking nothing for their arduous services they set an example of frugality which enables them to accomplish an immense amouno of work ab small cost. It is not yet certain whether arrangements CH.II be made to secure their energies in the cause of philanthropic work in this city, but there is a very wide lield of usefulness, and it may be hoped that the Buhop will bb successful in his efforts to give local effect to this branch of Christianity.