History

The Esclavas del Amor Misericordioso congregation was founded by Madre Esperanza de Jesús Alhama in Madrid, on Christmas Day 1930.

Since 1930

“That all may know the Merciful Love of Jesus, and see in Him a kind Father and a tender Mother, who loves all people with immense tenderness.” Madre Esperanza de Jesús Alhama
Madre Esperanza de Jesús Alhama, fundadora de la Congregación Boceto arquitectónico original de la fachada de Villa Alaidi

  1. 1930

    The congregation is founded

    Madre Esperanza de Jesús Alhama founds the Esclavas del Amor Misericordioso in Madrid.

  2. 1934

    A school in San Sebastián

    A mixed boarding school is founded, dedicated to caring for and teaching children from families most in need.

  3. 1936–1977

    “All for love”

    After the civil war, the centre comes to house and care for up to 200 children, living out the congregation's motto.

  4. 1977

    A new building

    A new school is built with capacity for 400 pupils, both boarding and day students.

  5. 1983

    The residence opens

    Alongside the school, the student residence begins operating.

  6. 1994

    A student residence

    The school closes after merging with two other local centres. Since then, Villa Alaidi has operated solely as a student residence.