The Daughters of the Cross form an Institute of Apostolic Life whose mission is to understand and proclaim to others the love of God, revealed to us most profoundly in the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Their response to this love is to give glory and honor to Christ by loving and serving Him, especially in the weakest and suffering members of society.
(Const. Art. 1)
To experience within themselves and reveal to others the reality of the tenderness of God's Love, the Daughters of the Cross will contemplate Jesus, the humble servant of redeeming love, betrayed by one of His disciples, denied by another, abandoned by all, handed over to His enemies, scourged, crowned with thorns, struggling through the streets of Jerusalem, carrying the Cross upon His shoulders. To understand the language of the Cross, which is foolishness to those who do not believe, but which we see as the power of salvation, they will contemplate Him on Calvary, in the company of Mary His Mother, Saint John, and Saint Mary Magdalene.
(Const. Art. 2)
The Daughters of the Cross never separate the Love of God from love for others. Like Jesus, through humble and creative service, they show that whoever truly loves God also loves their neighbor.
(Const. Art. 5)
Like Mary, standing at the foot of the Cross, united with her in complete trust, they participate in the mystery of Redemption, deepening the ecclesial dimension of their vocation.
(Const. Art. 7)
On the various continents where the Congregation is established, the Daughters of the Cross always give special preference to the poorest. They serve Christ through the work of general and special education, the care of the sick and elderly, abandoned children, those who are physically, psychologically, and mentally vulnerable, the socially marginalized, local pastoral work, and the various needs of the Church. They remain faithful to their original charism, which excludes no work of mercy.
(Const. Art. 8)
As an ecclesial community, the Daughters of the Cross are called to observe and discern the signs of the times. Rooted in the Gospel, they strive to remain attentive to the growing needs of the world and become involved in movements for justice and peace. Recognizing the interdependence of creation, the Sisters seek to remain informed about global issues of poverty, exploitation, inequality, and oppression in their various forms. They are encouraged to respect the diversity of religions, cultural practices, and traditions.
(Const. Art. 10)
The development of an ecological spirituality invites us to adopt a contemplative outlook and cultivate a sense of reverence. The environment is God's gift to us, and in making use of it, we have a responsibility toward humanity, especially the poorest, the most vulnerable, and future generations. Therefore, it is vital to develop a spirituality capable of responding positively and critically to these challenges.
(Const. Art. 11)
By participating in interreligious dialogue, the Daughters of the Cross are open to dialogue with other faith traditions.
(Const. Art. 12)