Loretto. Motherhouse and Novitiate of the Sisters of Loretto, an American congregation founded in 1812 by Reverend Charles Nerinckx, dedicated to education of youth. Located on the site of home of Rev. Stephen T. Badin, the first priest ordained in U.S. (1793). Erected October 23, 1963. For more information, see ExploreKYHistory: The Loretto Sisters and Loretto, KY