It all began with a calling to improve the health of our community.  In 1867, the founding congregation of the Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth ventured into the communities of Northern New Jersey to address growing health issues and provide medical care for the sick and vulnerable.  It was a humble effort, with an unwavering resolve.

When a healthcare organization is as deeply woven into the fabric of the community as we are, the effects are far reaching, enabling us to provide a meaningful continuum of care… throughout a lifetime.  By planting the seeds of St. Joseph’s Health so many, many years ago, no one could have ever imaged the tremendous growth that would take place, or the wonderful impact that would blossom for decades to come. Now, nearly 160 years later, we honor the spirit and dedication of our founders as we continue to embrace their calling and best serve our community.

History of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth

The Sisters of Charity were founded by Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, in the spirit of Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac, in Emmitsburg, Maryland in 1809. In 1859, Mother Mary Xavier Mehegan founded the New Jersey community known as the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth. Today, the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth are engaged in education, health care, social justice and ecological integrity, & pastoral & social service ministries in 10 dioceses within the United States, El Salvador, and Haiti. The Congregation currently numbers 161 vowed members.  The Seton Associate relationship has 290 affiliated lay and religious women and men.

To learn more, please visit www.scnj.org.