1936
Fr. Carl Dinkhauser SJ and Maria Elisabeth Strachotinsky founded the Society in Steyr, Austria. Maria Elisabeth Strachotinsky is among the first, who follows a way of life known as pious unions at that time. Together with Fr. Dinkhauser, she draws up the first Constitutions, based on Ignatian Spirituality; Strachotinsky helps the Society grow and directs it for many years.

1939
The Society is approved by Cardinal Innitzer as a  Pious Association. Almost all of the first members come from the Marian Congregation. They are employed unmarried women, who are witnesses of faith and they bear witness especially in their working environment. During World War II the first group continues its meetings  underground because the political situation does not allow public appearance.

1948
The Society becomes a Secular Institute of diocesan right by a Papal decree. In the same year the members take the three vows – poverty, chastity, and obedience – for the first time. Some members do not want to follow the way of life, which the Institute now takes by its new status as an official institute.

1953
The Institute becomes an institute of papal right. Soon the new way of life appeals to many women all around the world. The Institute becomes international.