Main Stream: Missionaries

The charism of the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa is the proclamation of the Gospel among the peoples of Africa through incarnational missionary presence, lived out in prayer, community life, and practical service. Rooted in a deep trust in Christ and inspired by the compassion of Mary, these sisters commit themselves to evangelization, inter-cultural dialogue, and service to the most disadvantaged, especially women, children, refugees, and those on the margins. Their spirituality promotes solidarity with local cultures and respect for human dignity, seeking to be “women apostles” who uphold love and charity in diverse contexts.

The Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa were founded in 1869 by Cardinal Charles-Martial Allemand Lavigerie in association with the Society of the Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers) as a female missionary society dedicated chiefly to Africa. Initially established to accompany missionary priests and care for orphaned children and the poor, the sisters grew into an international missionary body sent into many African countries. Over the decades, they established schools, health clinics, pastoral programs, and development initiatives, adapting mission approaches in response to local needs. Their presence in East Africa dates back to the early 20th century, with sisters serving in Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and beyond, increasingly integrating local vocations into leadership and formation.

Address: Viale Trenta Aprile 15, 00153 Rome, Italy Phone: +39 06 58.10.059