MINIME DEL SACRO CUORE. – The Institute had humble beginnings in Poggio a Caiano (diocese of Pistoia) through the work of Marianna Caiani, who, together with a companion, opened a small school for 12 poor girls in rented premises in 1894.
The work soon began to develop; other girls joined the first two, who on 15 December 1902, through the hands of the local Ordinary, received the religious habit and were canonically established as a diocesan institute.
The decree of praise dates from 3 February 1926, together with the temporary approval of the Constitutions, which were subsequently definitively approved on 21 November 1933.
The Institute’s particular purpose is the Christian education and instruction of the young. Its members also provide care for the sick in hospitals and at home.
In 1948 there were 573 sisters and 43 novices, distributed among 51 houses.