Ursuline Sisters of Louisville

"Soli Deo Gloria"
Be glory to the only God

The symbol shown above is worn only by Ursuline Sisters of Louisville either on a chain or as a lapel pin. Created by the late Sister Brigid Kirn and selected by the sisters from among 16 potential designs, it was adopted in January 1976 to replace the habit (regulation dress for the sisters).

The cross was chosen as the basic structure because it is a universally recognized sign of Jesus Christ. The flames, signifying consuming love, are the work of the late Sister Benedicta O'Connor. The words, Soli Deo Gloria are translated by the Louisville Ursuline Sisters as "Be glory to the only God." These words can be traced back as early as 1776 as the motto of Ursuline Sisters.

As Ursuline Sisters, who follow the teachings of Saint Angela Merici, we take four vows. They are:

Poverty
Celibacy
Obedience
Teaching Christian Living

About the Ursuline Sisters
of Louisville

The Ursuline Sisters of the Immaculate Conception of Louisville are a congregation of women religious in the Roman Catholic Church who follow a life of consecration and prayer united with good works. Teaching Christian living is our corporate ministry, which, cutting across socio-economic, racial and national boundaries, assists women, men and children to live more fully and to develop a personal relationship with God.

The Ursuline Sisters of Louisville have a rich history that dates back to 1858 in Louisville, Ky. We now minister in nine states (KY, SC, IN, MD, OH, NE, WV, PA, and IA) and South America.