History of the Daughters of the Cross in Pakistan

The story of the Daughters of the Cross in Pakistan began in the nineteenth century, when five courageous Sisters left Europe in response to a missionary call. On 27 January 1862, they embarked on a long journey and arrived in Bombay on 16 February, where they were warmly welcomed by Bishop Steins. It was there that they learned their mission would take them to Karachi.

On 13 March 1862, the first five Daughters of the Cross arrived on the sandy shores of Sindh and immediately began their apostolate among the people of Karachi. Within days, on 18 March 1862, they opened a small school with ten pupils. As the number of students steadily increased, a new building was constructed with the hope that it would become a center from which “good morals and sound learning” would spread throughout Karachi and the Province of Sindh.In 1863, additional Sisters arrived to support the growing mission. By 1869, an upper floor was added to the convent to accommodate boarding students, and in January 1871 the institution became known as St. Joseph’s Convent.

Over the decades, the Daughters of the Cross expanded their presence throughout Pakistan, establishing communities dedicated to education, healthcare, pastoral ministry, social development, and outreach to the poor. Their mission has touched countless lives through schools, clinics, boarding houses, women's empowerment programs, parish ministry, and care for vulnerable children.Today, the Daughters of the Cross continue to serve faithfully across Pakistan, carrying forward the vision of Blessed Marie Thérèse Haze through prayer, compassion, and service.