Our History
Our Beginning
Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions
Religieuses De Notre Dame des Missions
Founded in France in 1861 by Euphrasie Barbier.
The three values of the Mission Sisters:
Contemplation, Communion & Mission
The Sisters of the Mission founded many Catholic schools in New Zealand, including St Joseph’s Catholic School in Morrinsville in 1930.
The first Sisters to travel to New Zealand were Sister Marie Ste Madeleine, Sister Marie des Anges, Sister Marie Saint Jean and Sister Marie Saint Anne.
In 1865 the first four Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions were sent out on mission from France to New Zealand.
They left England in October 1864 on the “Walter Hood” and after calling in to Sydney where they rested for a few weeks they set sail on the “Lord Ashley” along with several Marist Fathers for New Zealand.
After calling in to Nelson and Wellington they arrived at Napier on February 25th 1865 at 8pm.
The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions made a major contribution to both Māori and European education in New Zealand.
Eight houses were founded in Christchurch in 1868 and Nelson in 1871, and a New Zealand novitiate established in Christchurch in 1873.
A school of Māori girls was established at Napier in 1867, as well as houses at New Plymouth, Ashburton, Pukekohe, Hamilton and Opotiki.
First Sisters at St Joseph’s Morrinsville
Sister Audrey
Sister John of Matha
Sister Stanislaus
The three sisters sent to Morrinsville to start St Joseph’s Catholic School after a request to Euphrasie Barbier from the Bishop.
The school was blessed and opened on the 2nd of February 1930 by Bishop Liston.
There were 82 students enrolled.
End of an Era – Sister Bernadette Fletcher
Last Sister to be Principal
Sister Bernadette spent six years at St Joseph’s School as the principal. She first arrived in 1982 when the school had just been integrated. She finished her role in 1987.
Bernadette was a dedicated and enthusiastic educator, known for her meticulous nature and commitment to Catholic education, especially during the time of Integration. Her vibrant energy extended beyond the classroom, as she visited families, the elderly, and coached successful netball teams wherever she taught.
With a great sense of humour and love for life, she embraced fun challenges, like riding a pony on Mission Day, and stayed passionately connected to sport and people. She valued communication, keeping in touch through emails and thoughtful gestures, always offering prayer and support to those in need.
St Joseph – Our Patron and Protector
We are honoured to have St Joseph as our patron saint.
St Joseph’s story reminds us that greatness is found in faith, service, and love.
Each year, we celebrate St Joseph’s Feast Day on March 19th, honouring him as our protector and role model.
St Joseph was a humble carpenter, a man of great integrity, and the earthly father of Jesus. Though little is written about him in the Bible, his actions speak louder than words. He listened to God’s call, protected Mary and Jesus, and worked tirelessly to provide for his family. When faced with uncertainty, he chose faith over fear, trusting in God’s plan.
As the protector of the Holy Family, St Joseph teaches us the power of quiet strength, responsibility, and perseverance. He did not seek recognition or power—he simply lived his mission with love, humility, and dedication.
CONNECTING TO OUR VISION
Like St Joseph, we are called to be strong, resourceful, and resilient in our learning. He used his skills as a carpenter to provide for his family, showing us that learning and hard work are valuable gifts. He teaches us to trust in our abilities and always strive to do our best.
St Joseph lived his mission through service, faith, and love. He accepted God’s call to care for Jesus and Mary, reminding us that our mission is to serve others, show kindness, and make a difference in the world.
CONNECTING TO OUR MOTTO
St Joseph’s life was guided by faith—he followed God’s will even when the path was unclear. Like him, we trust that faith will guide us in making the right choices. He was connected in purpose, dedicating his life to protecting and nurturing his family, just as we are connected in purpose as a school community, supporting one another in learning and faith.
CONNECTING TO OUR VALUES
Whakaute / Respect
St Joseph respected God’s plan and treated Mary and Jesus with deep love and care. He teaches us to value and honour each other.
Ngākaupono / Integrity
He was a man of honesty and righteousness, doing what was right even when no one was watching. We are called to act with integrity in all we do.
Ngākau Aroha / Compassion
St Joseph was a protector, always putting the needs of others before himself. He inspires us to show kindness and care for those around us.
Takakawe / Endeavour
As a carpenter, he worked hard and never gave up, teaching us the importance of perseverance, dedication, and doing our best.