The Religious Community of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles was founded by Mother Maria Luisa Josefa of the Most Blessed Sacrament, affectionately known as Mother Luisita. On July 1, 2000, our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II gave Mother Luisita the title “ Venerable,” which means that Mother Luisita practiced virtue to a heroic degree. She is now in the process of becoming a saint. She will receive the title “Blessed” when a miracle is declared through her intercession.
Venerable Mother Luisita always had a special place in her heart for the care of young children. In the early twentieth century, she cared for poor orphaned children in Mexico and supported families in their task of preserving and passing on the faith to their children. This charism has been given to us, who continue to serve the Church faithfully as she did. Our Carmelite charism of prayer flows into service to the Church through education, healthcare, and retreats.