The charism of St. Patrick’s Missionary Society, commonly called the Kiltegan Fathers, is missionary evangelization and service among peoples and cultures where the Church is in need or emerging. Inspired by the love of Christ as expressed in their motto Caritas Christi Urget Nos (“Christ’s love compels us”), members dedicate themselves to proclaiming the Gospel, pastoral care, catechesis, community formation, education, and works of charity. Their spirituality emphasizes solidarity with local Churches, respect for cultural contexts, and compassionate service to the poor and marginalized in both spiritual and material needs.

St. Patrick’s Missionary Society was founded on 17 March 1932 in Kiltegan, County Wicklow, Ireland, by Msgr. Patrick Joseph Whitney, with the original purpose of responding to missionary needs in Africa, especially in Nigeria. The Society is a Society of Apostolic Life of Pontifical Right composed of missionary priests committed to life in mission rather than traditional religious vows. Through the mid‑20th century, the Kiltegan Fathers expanded their outreach beyond Nigeria into Kenya (beginning in 1951), Malawi, Zambia, South Sudan, and other regions. By the late 20th century, they opened formation houses across Africa (including in East Africa and Kenya) and broadened their missionary service. In 2015, the Society moved its Central Leadership Team to Nairobi, Kenya, signaling the central role of African members and mission work in the Society’s life.

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