The Congregation was started on Dec. 14, 1888, at Changanachery. It took its origin from a fraternity of Territories of the parish of Palai. Their desire for a fuller Franciscan life was responded to by Rt. Rev. Charles Lavinge, then Vicar Apostolic of Kottayam, whose paternal solicitude resulted in founding a new offshoot of the Franciscan family in Kerala - Franciscan Clarist Congregation. In 1910 independent units were started in Trichur Diocese and in 1928 in Ernakulam Diocese. Though one in origin and spirit they differed slightly in rules and regulations. In the light of Vatican II the different independent units felt the need of unification and it was effected by the Holy See in 1970. In 1973, the new Constitution was approved by the Holy See and the Congregation was raised to Pontifical Right on March 1,1973.  Blessed Alphonsa, who was Beatified on Feb 6,1986 was a Sister of this Congregation. The main apostolic works are caring for the poor, education, nursing, apostolate of the press and various kinds of  social works.  From 1960 onwards mission work was started in various parts of India . Members working in this diocese belong to the St. Paul ?s Region of the Alvernia Province , Irinjalakuda.