Karnataka

Sacred Heart Convent – Hubli: A Brief History

Founded in 1892, the Sacred Heart Convent began at the request of Bishop Biederlinden to educate girls in Hubli. The first four sisters—Sr. Mary Barbara, Sr. Coralie, Sr. Himena, and Sr. Mary Patrick—started with 30 students. In 1914, land was acquired for the present Convent and School, which expanded into a renowned high school with over 2,000 students.

Over the years, the school achieved academic excellence, state recognition, and national-level sports victories. It welcomed HIV-affected children and rural students, offering leadership programs and vocational training. In 2011, the school celebrated its Centenary and continues to provide value-based education.

Divya Jyoti – Gundholli

Established to serve rural communities, Divya Jyoti focuses on faith formation, education, and empowerment. It supports pastoral work, tuition classes, and vocational training, helping dropouts and girls gain job skills.

Recent Events & Achievements

• Fancy Dress Competition (Aug 2024): LKG & UKG students showcased Indian culture and freedom fighters.
• Annual Sports Day (Dec 2023): Featured march past, torch relay, and cultural drills promoting peace and unity.
• International Day Against Drug Addiction (June 2024): Awareness rally and competitions for 1,200 students.
• Science Achievements: Students won national recognition at the Inspire Awards for innovative projects.
• Foundation Day (Sept 6, 2024): Honored Mother Marie Therese with skits, dances, and tributes.
• Associates of the Daughters of the Cross Meeting (Aug 16, 2024): Discussed congregation history and community roles.

Sacred Heart Convent continues its mission of education, social service, and faith formation, leaving a lasting impact on students and the community.

In May 1967, the Daughters of the Cross began their mission in Yellapur, initially facing hardships with no proper accommodation or food. Sisters Celine Joseph and Benigna started by living on the veranda of a primary school. Over time, they began visiting families, leading to the establishment of faith formation. In 1969, boarding for Siddi girls was started with just five girls. The current house was built in 1971, and a mother-child health program was initiated in 1981. The sisters expanded their work with medical services, Mahila Mandals, savings schemes, and a primary school. In 1990, Sr. Martha established Holy Rosary High School, and boarding for boys was added. In 1991, Sr. Leena Fernandes joined, becoming the first vocation from Yellapur. By 1993, village health workers were trained to support local communities, and in 1999, the first Siddi vocation, Sr. Francina, joined. The mission expanded to Kirwati, where a new convent and health programs were established. In 2004, Mother Teresa Kindergarten English Medium school was opened, with Sr. Pramila as the first principal. Today, Yellapur continues to be a source of many vocations to religious life and priesthood. The sisters remain involved in parish life and family visits. Recent events include an Environmental Day celebration, a fancy dress competition, a singing competition, and an outreach program where youth visited an orphanage and aged care facility, spreading love and care in the community.

The Kirwatti mission, part of the Yellapur mission since 1967, became a permanent presence in 1992, with the establishment of the Jeevan Dhara Kendra in 2004. Serving 22 villages, the mission focuses on education, medical care, social development, and pastoral work. Key initiatives include remedial classes for Siddi and Gawli children, women’s empowerment activities like skill training, and health programs with 15 Village Health Workers providing basic care. The sisters also run catechism, liturgy, and community outreach, addressing the spiritual, social, and health needs of the marginalized, mainly Siddis and Gowlies, in the region.

Sacred Heart Convent Primary School

Founded in 1892 by the Daughters of the Cross, Sacred Heart Convent School in Hubli started with 30 girls. It grew into a prominent institution offering quality education, producing notable alumni, and participating in national-level sports. In 2011, the school celebrated its centenary and continues to provide value-based education to girls from Hubli and surrounding areas.

Divya Jyoti Gundholli:
Located in a poverty-stricken village, Divya Jyoti focuses on faith formation and education. The sisters run a school and offer vocational training, empowering youth—especially girls—through job-oriented courses like tailoring and computers.

Recent Events & Achievements:

• Fancy Dress Competition: LKG and UKG students showcased “Unity in Diversity” and freedom fighters through vibrant costumes.
• Sports Day: The theme “Choose Peace” emphasized unity and peace through races and drills.
• Drug Awareness Day: Students participated in competitions and a rally to raise awareness about drug addiction.
• Science Achievements: Rabiya Farooqui ranked 6th nationally in the Science Exhibition.
• Foundation Day: The school honored Blessed Mother Marie Therese with cultural programs and a tribute.
• Associates Meeting: The August meeting highlighted the congregation’s work and a video on Blessed Marie Therese’s beatification.

These efforts continue to serve the community with a focus on education, empowerment, and faith.