A home for girls run by the Religious of the Good Shepherd (RGS) in Pakistan is more than just a shelter—it is a place of transformation and a springboard for new opportunities and a better future.
With the vision of supporting underprivileged girls from rural areas, the Maria Droste Home for Girls was established in 2011 in Multan, the sixth-largest city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. The home began with just two girls who received basic education, life skills, and social awareness to help improve their own lives as well as those of their families and communities.
Since then, the center has grown steadily, providing moral development, educational opportunities, and awareness programs for both girls and their families, aimed at fostering healthier and more sustainable living conditions at home.
“Numerous girls' lives have been transformed by the home over the years, guiding them toward brighter futures,” says Sr. Rozina Emmanuel, a member of the RGS.
The center is named after Blessed Maria Droste zu Vischering (1863–1899), a German noblewoman and religious sister. Moved by the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, she dedicated her life to serving the most vulnerable in society. The RGS sisters and staff at the Maria Droste Home continue her legacy by empowering impoverished girls and nurturing hope within marginalized communities.
One such girl is Asha (name changed), who arrived as a shy eighth grader. During her time at the center, she was trained in teaching, doll-making, and tailoring, and left with faith, skills, and confidence.
At the celebration of Blessed Maria Droste’s feast on June 8, Asha shared how the center had transformed her life.
“From the beginning, the atmosphere was encouraging and supportive, especially in terms of education. The sisters’ constant guidance helped me grow both academically and personally,” she said.
She began learning to sew and cook, eventually turning her passion for doll-making into a creative outlet she shared on social media. As her interests deepened, she discovered discipline, responsibility, and structure.
Asha later began teaching online classes. Despite early struggles, she grew stronger.
“I learned the value of independence, perseverance, and problem-solving during this stage of my journey,” she said.
The center also arranged for her to attend special seminars and training programs, equipping her with valuable skills that she then passed on to other girls at the home.
“I discovered how to help others uncover their hidden talents, and I learned the joy of supporting others in their growth,” she said.
One of her most cherished experiences was serving as an altar server and attending a life-changing silent retreat in 2024, along with Lenten seminars that deepened her faith and sense of purpose.
She also participated in several social outreach programs, which boosted her confidence and broadened her perspective.
“The sisters helped shape me into the confident, responsible person I am today ready to serve society using the values and skills I’ve acquired.”
Sarina (also a pseudonym), another resident, shared how the sisters’ care and seminars on women’s rights helped her become a strong, self-aware young woman.
“Sr. Sumaira, who oversees our residential program, teaches us with both kindness and firmness. Her gentle yet effective manner helped me discover the true purpose of education,” she said.
Frequent seminars on women’s rights and gender justice helped Sarina develop critical awareness and the courage to voice her opinions.
“Looking back, I am deeply grateful for all that this place has given me—the wisdom to live a purposeful and organized life, the strength to grow, and the confidence to express myself,” she said.
“The home became much more than a place to stay. It became my second home, a place of safety, transformation, and support.”
According to Sr. Rozina Emmanuel, the stories of girls like Asha and Sarina show that the center is not just a residence, it is a place of real change and new beginnings.
“We are grateful that the Good Shepherd Sisters’ tireless efforts are bearing fruit. Through an environment of love, service, and spiritual growth, countless girls are being transformed, and a new hope for the future is being born,” she said.
