The Sisters of Charity of our Lady Mother of Mercy have been present in Belgium: first in Maaseik, where education for blind, deaf and dumb children was established. From 1844, under the direction of several sisters, a school was founded in Borgloon and in 1851 two sisters settled in Zonhoven. Education and care of the sick formed the core of the works of charity. Belgium became an independent province in 1961. Gradually the number of sisters decreased Since April 3, 2024, we are a region.

As much as possible, the sisters continue to do volunteer work as  each sister is now officially retired. In this way help is given to the diocese, to the parish, to Samana (where we used to take care of the sick, to the neighborhood, where we also help the sick and elderly in need, bring communion, write for Amnesty International, etc.

The St. Catherine Residential and Care Center St. Catherine is home to some sisters who need more care. They still have their own chapel and some classrooms for community activities. In addition, some sisters live in assisted living apartments, called The Pledge. This is for elderly people who need little or no  nursing care.  It is possible to have a hot meal together in the Grand Cafe at WZC H. Catharina or to have the meal in one's own apartment. Those who wish to cook,  can do so in the apartment. Two sisters still live alone: one in Zonhoven and one in Maaseik.

With the exception of the sister who lives in Maaseik, all now live in Zonhoven. This is also  where the regional house is located, where meetings, reflections and encounters take place and where also the archives and some offices are located.

Houses formerly occupied by the sisters that became vacant were sold, as was the large convent in Borgloon (bought by our founder at the time).

At present, there are still a few staff members in service, who assist the board with the administration, maintenance of the Regional House and some assistant houses and care for our elderly sisters in St. Catherine’s.

What is happening for us is what we read in our constitution, art. 21:

“When we  become older or sick we continue to share in the mission of our Congregation by our presence, our prayer and our suffering. In a very special way, we then share in the mystery of Christ as Redeemer and grow toward perfection, in total surrender to God”.