The Nativity BVM convent at 68th and Washtenaw is a busy place once again. Taking up residence are the Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ, sometimes referred to as the “Blue Nuns” because of the color of their habit and also affectionately known as “The Smiling Nuns’ because, in their own words: ‘Wherever we serve and in whatever we do, IHM Sisters serve with cheerfulness and humility that comes from the heart.’
The congregation was founded in 1937 by an Irish Missionary in Nigeria, Archbishop Charles Heerey. Since that time, their mission has grown and can be found in 15 countries in three continents. From their humble beginnings in Nigeria, they have traveled and put down roots to serve in Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Republic of Benin, Tchad Republic, Cameroon, Italy, England, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and the USA.
Coming to the United States in 1998 by invitation of Bishop Thomas Doran, the first home of the IHMs was in Rockford. While maintaining their presence in Rockford, they branched out to Freeport, which is currently their regional house. In addition to Illinois, they have settled in Iowa, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma and Ontario, Canada.
The Sisters are nurses, teachers and social workers. In Chicago they work at Rush and Sinai Hospitals, they help out at Casa Catalina on Ashland and work with Catholic Charities…