Brothers of St Joseph Cottolengo (FSGC)
St. Joseph Cottolengo founded the Little House of Divine Providence at Turin (Italy), consisting of a shelter for the poor and sick people abandoned by society, where the Priests, Brothers and Sisters living a consecrated life, served them. The Congregation of the Brothers of St. Cottolengo is a lay religious family whose members consecrated themselves to God in the service of the most marginalised people. Founded in 1833, it was approved by the Apostolic See as a Religious Institute of Pontifical Right in 1965. The Brothers are aware that they are humble instruments of Divine Providence. Their commitment is to incarnate the love of the provident God in all activities of the Little House of Divine Providence and their special mission is to follow the example of Jesus, which leads to the giving, sharing and the sacrificing of one’s own life for the benefit of this suffering people. The first foundation in India is at Palluruthy, Diocese of Cochin (1984) and the second community at North Paravur, Diocese of Kottapuram (1998). Trusting in the Providence of God who takes care of his sons in special way, especially those most in need and to reveal the goodness of the Heavenly Father. Apostolate: To assist those persons who are affected by incurable diseases, the mentally retarded, physically handicapped, also those in serious and advanced stages of suffering and with no one to look after them.