The Congregation of Brothers of Mercy, founded in 1850 by Blessed Peter Friedhofen, a chimmney-sweeper who devoted himself to gathering German youths to care for the sick, propagates the Christian faith through chastity, obedience and imitation of the life of St. Aloysius.

The feast of the Annunciation in March 1966 marked the official establishment of the community in Singapore, with the parish of St. Francis Xavier as its base. Besides being actively involved in nursing care at the Mount Alvernia Hospital and the St. Theresa's Home in Thomson Rd, the Brothers, all trained nurses, also participate in the activities of the various church organisations.

Their spirit and mission can best be summed up in the words of their beloved founder:

"To have a close union with Jesus
and to grow more and more
in the love of God;
To lead men to Christ;
To plant the love of Mary
in the hearts of men;
To take care of the sick
out of Christian love."