Carondelet Legacy Stories
Celebrating 145 Years
Carondelet has a long and rich history that spans decades. Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, the congregation was originally established in France. The Sisters came to the United States in 1836 to serve the diocese in Carondelet, Missouri.
In 1870, seven Sisters of St. Joseph traveled from San Diego to Tucson to open a school. In 1880, the Sisters opened St. Mary’s Hospital, Arizona’s first hospital. In 1961, they opened St. Joseph’s Hospital to provide services for Tucson’s growing east side. The Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet began managing Holy Cross in 1981 and assumed ownership in 1987.
We are Family
As Carondelet Health Network celebrates its 145th anniversary, we are taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable journeys that have shaped our present and future. That first remarkable journey was the famous Trek of the Seven Sisters. The Trek was more than just a physical journey; it was a spiritual reconnection to our roots, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by our founders. Several groups have retraced the steps of the pioneering Sisters who founded St. Mary’s Hospital and our health organization.
In 2011, Saul Betten (St. Mary’s Food & Nutrition Services Director) participated in this trek with a few other associates who are still with us! After his nearly 16 years at St. Mary's, Saul had this to say…
"As you can guess, I've seen many changes over the years. Hospital Leadership, a change in ownership, major hospital construction/renovation projects... What has remained consistent here at St. Mary's is that there is a true spirit of comradery and a family togetherness, where everyone works together to carry on the mission of the Seven Sisters."
These stories remind us of our deep-rooted commitment to the community and the personal connections that make St. Mary's more than just a healthcare provider. We are a family, tied together by a legacy of service and compassion, ready to face the future while honoring our past.