Religious sisters remain an essential part of the Catholic Church’s mission, serving in education, healthcare, social justice and parishes.
Their tireless work with the poor and vulnerable is a living witness to the love of Christ, inspiring others to embrace their own calling from God.
Among the many women’s religious institutes in Perth, the Little Sisters of the Poor (LSP) stand as a shining example of a vocation lived in joy, humility, and service.
Founded by St Jeanne Jugan in 1839, the Sisters dedicate themselves to the care of the elderly poor—ensuring that no one dies alone, but is accompanied with dignity, compassion, and love, as if they were Christ Himself.
A Century of Care in Perth
The Little Sisters arrived in Perth in 1920, opening their mission in two small cottages on Adelaide Terrace.
Supported by the local community, including the Sisters of Mercy, local tradespeople, and clergy such as Fr Treacy of the Redemptorist Monastery, they quickly created a refuge for the elderly in need.
By 1921, then Perth Archbishop Patrick Clune gifted them 50 acres near Lake Monger, where they relocated residents to the former St Kevin’s Industrial School for Boys.
Over the decades, the Glendalough Home expanded to include hostels for women and men, residences for married couples and retired priests, a nursing home, and a physiotherapy suite.
In 2019, a new purpose-built facility was opened—designed to meet the highest standards of aged care—featuring a unique “streetscape” design, landscaped courtyards, and a warm, prayerful environment that reflects the Sisters’ charism.
Living Witnesses of Vocation
Behind the long history of the Little Sisters in Perth are individual women who have given their lives to God’s service.
Sister Velonika – A Life Rooted in a Mother’s Prayer
For 37 years, Sister Velonika has served with the Little Sisters. Her journey began as a child, when after her First Holy Communion her mother consecrated her to Our Lady with the prayer that she might one day be “a handmaid of the Lord.”
Years later, a simple act of charity she witnessed in a Little Sisters’ home confirmed her calling. Despite the demands of modern care work, she finds strength in deep prayer and community life. Her advice to women discerning religious life is simple: “Go for it and don’t look back.”
Sister Mary Pauline – Saying ‘Yes’ to God’s Whisper
Growing up in a faith-filled family, Sister Mary Pauline’s heart was shaped by service to others.
Seven years ago, she entered the Little Sisters of the Poor, making her final vows in France just last year.
Her vocation was affirmed one Sunday during Mass, when she saw the Sisters tenderly caring for their elderly residents and felt God’s voice whisper, “It’s here you want me.”
She encourages young women not to be afraid to give their lives to God: “Throw yourself into His hands—He will not fail you.”
Sister Susanna – From Volunteer to Vocation
Sister Susanna’s path began in Singapore, volunteering one Saturday a week at the Little Sisters’ home—until she was there every spare moment.
A pilgrimage to the Motherhouse in France during World Youth Day 1997 led to a profound moment of “being at home” before the Blessed Sacrament.
Now celebrating 20 years of professed life, she reflects that her vocation was shaped by ordinary encounters and the quiet guidance of God’s hand. Her advice to women discerning is to find a good spiritual director and to keep an open heart.
Continuing the Mission
The Little Sisters of the Poor continue to serve Perth’s elderly poor with the help of staff, volunteers, and members of the Association Jeanne Jugan. Their mission is not only to provide physical care, but also to offer a home filled with love, dignity, and the peace of Christ.
Through their witness, the Sisters remind us that vocations are a gift to the Church—lives joyfully given to God for the service of His people.
If you would like to learn more about the Little Sisters of the Poor, or discover other women’s religious institutes in Perth, please visit perthcatholic.org.au for a full list.