The mission and ministry of the Ursulines today is best understood by knowing something of our history and the source of our inspiration - Saint Angela Merici.

• Angela Merici was born in Desenzano, Italy, sometime between 1470 and 1474. Her birthplace and the area where she worked for a major part of her life are in that section of northern Italy that can rightly be called the "cradle of the Renaissance Movement."
  
• During the time of Angela, religious revolt rocked the Church; the Venetian Lombardy area was at war and family life was threatened. Inspired by Gospel challenges, Angela served the needs of the rich and poor alike. Those of prominent position sought her as their guide and their inspiration; to the lowly and the poor she brought help and comfort. Her love and sensitivity to human needs won her the title, "Madre Angela," from the people of Brescia, Italy.
  
• Angela founded the Company of Saint Ursula in Brescia in 1535. The company was one of the first apostolic groups of consecrated virgins living and working among the people and eventually recognized by the Church.
  
  Click here for more on St. Angela's history
  

Depictions of St. Angela