Franciscan Missionaries of Mary & the Legacy of St. Dominic’s Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School
St. Dominic’s Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School, Butt Road, St. Thomas Mount, Chennai, stands as a beacon of excellence in the education of girl children. Founded in 1901, the school is a proud educational apostolate of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM), whose charism continues to shape its vision and mission.
The Institute of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary was founded in 1877 by Blessed Mary of the Passion (Hélène de Chappotin) in Ootacamund, Tamil Nadu. Today, it is an international religious congregation of women, comprising 82 nationalities, present in 77 countries across five continents. Inspired by the Gospel and the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi, the sisters dedicate themselves to education, healthcare, and social service, reaching out especially to the poor, the marginalized, and the most abandoned with compassion and generosity.
From its inception, St. Dominic’s School has upheld the ideals of women’s dignity, their rightful place in society, and the holistic formation of young women. Walking in the footsteps of Mother Mary of the Passion, the pioneering sisters became trendsetters for future generations, nurturing minds and hearts through value-based education.
With a rich legacy spanning 125 years, the school proudly celebrates its Jubilee Year, marking over a century and a quarter of faithful service to the cause of education. While the world and the Church have evolved over nearly 150 years of FMM mission, the call of Christ remains unchanged:
“Go and make disciples of all nations… What you have done to the least of these, you have done unto me… By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Our Mission in the Spirit of FMM
Seized by the love of Christ and consecrated to the service of the Gospel, women of diverse nations and cultures seek to manifest God’s love through their entire lives—especially to the poorest and most abandoned. This spirit continues to inspire the educational mission of St. Dominic’s.
Distinctive Emphases of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary
“For the mission and its risks”
A mission without frontiers—open to all, regardless of country, culture, religion, or social background—demands lifelong availability. It is lived in a spirit of service, respect, and readiness to respond to the challenges of our time. The mission prioritizes human dignity, life, and the integral growth of every person.
“With the sisters God gives us”
Coming from diverse backgrounds, the sisters choose to live in intercultural communities as a sign of fraternity, reconciliation, and unity in a fragmented world. By recognizing the dignity, richness, and limitations of every person, they embody the dream of a world rooted in peace, justice, and healing.
“I give myself unreservedly”
Life as Franciscan Missionaries of Mary is shaped by both contemplation and action. Through prayer and the Eucharist—celebrated and adored—the sisters surrender themselves with Christ and draw strength for their mission. In every work they undertake, they unite themselves with their brothers and sisters, recognizing the presence of the Lord in each person.
“Behold the Handmaid of the Lord”
The mission is lived in Mary’s way. Mary’s unwavering “Yes” to God’s plan becomes the model for total availability and faithful service. As the first disciple and Mother of the Church, she continues to guide and accompany the mission entrusted to her children.
A Living Legacy at St. Dominic’s Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School
Renowned for its academic excellence and value-based instruction, St. Dominic’s Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School continues to form confident, compassionate, and competent young women. The guiding principle of the school is to empower girl children through holistic education, nurturing them into responsible and committed citizens.
Under the gracious leadership of the Headmistress, Rev. Sr. Lawrentia, the institution continues to flourish as a centre of learning and character formation. Its serene campus and dedicated faculty create an environment conducive to intellectual growth, moral integrity, and spiritual depth.
The school motto, “Towards Charity by Truth,” encapsulates the essence of its mission. In a world often driven by material pursuits and neglectful of spiritual values, St. Dominic’s strives to uphold charity and truth—values that ultimately reflect love for humanity and fidelity to the Gospel.
