On December 1, 1885, thirty-six sisters, candidates and children cared for by the sisters moved from Vicolo del Falco to Borgo S. Spirito 41. The house was located near St. Peter's Basilica, and despite the excellent location, it was not a suitable building for a convent. However, it was decided to buy it and renovate it as needed. A few years later, the house across the road was bought for the novitiate and this too was remodeled and restored. At Borgo Santo Spirito, the sisters dedicated themselves to caring for the sick in homes scattered in different parts of the city, took care of poor children, orphans and did the most diverse domestic work. This provided for the needs of the community and the poor of whom, Mother Frances said, “no one pays a single penny.” This is more like “don’t bother about the money”.
Although they received only small compensation for their service, they were always 'satisfied', being full of love for the Lord and for others. United in love, prayer and fidelity, they implored the help of St. Joseph to see to it that they also found missionary activities that could offer them a minimum of sustenance at the same time. In fact, the first Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother departed from Rome to collect aid in Europe and America and to explore prudently further activities.
Borgo Santo Spirito was also a source for new vocations. In this house, guided by Mother Frances, living an austere life dedicated to prayer and service, many Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother were formed for the mission in the Church. The Foundress resided here even after her removal from office in 1896, until July 1905. The house in Borgo S. Spirito was the Motherhouse of the Congregation until 1925. Today the community at Borgo S. Spirito still continues to serve the poor of Rome and the many pilgrims from various parts of the world.