• Immigrant
• Orphan
• Surrogate Mother
• Dominican
• Sister
• Founder

In 1868, just days after landing in New Orleans with her dying widowed mother and two younger siblings, this 15-year-old Irish immigrant was orphaned and left to arrange for her mother’s burial and to comfort and care for her siblings.

The compassion she learned served her well when, as a young Dominican Sister, she was uprooted again in 1873 and sent to Jacksonville, Illinois, where she and her five companions dedicated themselves to educating the children of poor Irish immigrant laborers.

Sister Josephine’s courageous leadership lives on in the Dominican Sisters of Springfield Illinois.
Does it live in you?

Sister Judine Hilbing, OP

As an elementary school principal in the center city of Chicago, I find Sister Josephine Meagher to be a clear example of the compassion and leadership that are needed in fulfilling my daily responsibilities. Seeking always to attend to the concerns of each student, teacher, and parent in the school, I find that Josephine’s commitment to her ministry lives on in those who are encouraged by her exemplary faithfulness. With her courageous spirit as a model, I welcome the challenges of each day as I commit myself to the educational advancement and spiritual growth of the students in my care.



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