Society of the Helpers of the Holy Souls

(French: Auxiliatrices des âmes du purgatoire) in Europe, or, alternately, "H.H.S" in English-speaking countries.

Eugénie Smet (1825–1871), also known as Mary of Providence, was a French religious sister who founded the Society of the Helpers of the Holy Souls in 1856.

From 1836 to 1843 she was educated at the Convent of the Sacred Heart in Lille, where she demonstrated a particular devotion to the Guardian Angels.

[2] Lady Georgiana Fullerton wrote a biography of Eugénie Smet, Mere Marie de la Providence.

[2] The Helpers profess vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, and follow an Ignatian spirituality.

The first foundation in the UK was in the Archdiocese of Westminster, at 23 Queen Anne Street, Cavendish Square.

In May, 1892, seven "Helpers" sailed to New York City, and were heartily welcomed by Archbishop Michael Corrigan.

The first convent was a small house in Seventh Avenue; there they laboured for nearly three years, when they removed to 114 East 86th Street.

Children from the public schools came to the convents for religious instruction and preparation for First Communion and Confirmation,[6] and there were sewing classes for girls.