History of the Congregation of St. Gemma Sisters of Dodoma (CSG)
Foundation and Inspiration
The Congregation of St. Gemma Sisters of Dodoma (CSG) traces its origins back to a profound spiritual inspiration drawn from St. Gemma Galgani, an Italian mystic renowned for her deep devotion to the Passion of Christ. The congregation was founded in Kondoa Irangi, Dodoma Region, Tanzania, on the 14th of September, 1947. The visionary behind this spiritual movement was the late Monsignor Stanislaus Ambrozin, a member of the Passionist Fathers, whose missionary zeal led him to establish a community that would live out the charism Spirituality of mercy and suffering, inspired by St. Gemma Galgani.
The seeds of the congregation were sown as early as 1938 when the first house of the nascent community was constructed in the village of Kondoa within the Diocese of Dodoma. Under the guidance of three Sisters of Mercy from Verona, Italy, the first candidates began their preparation for religious life. Monsignor Ambrozin, moved by the spirit of St. Gemma, envisioned a congregation that would embody the saint’s fervent love for Jesus Crucified and her commitment to serving the suffering and marginalised.
Early Years and Growth
In 1945, the initial group of postulants commenced their novitiate, marking the formal beginning of their religious formation. By 1947, five young Novices took religious vows, and this date is recognized as the official founding of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Gemma Galgani.
The Sisters of Mercy from Verona played a crucial role in nurturing the young congregation during its formative years. They guided the sisters until 1967, when the community held its first General Chapter and elected its first Superior General from among the African sisters. This significant event marked the congregation’s transition to autonomy, as it became a diocesan community approved by the Bishop of Dodoma.
Key Milestones in the Congregation’s Journey
1938: Establishment in Kondoa
The first house of the nascent community was built in Kondoa, Dodoma, where the initial candidates for religious life began their journey under the guidance of the Sisters of Mercy of Verona.
1945: Beginning of Novitiate
The first group of postulants commenced their novitiate, formally beginning their religious formation.
1947: Official Foundation
Five sisters took their religious vows, marking the official founding of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Gemma Galgani.
1967: Independence and First General Chapter
The congregation held its first General Chapter and elected its first Superior General from among the African sisters, signifying its independence from the oversight of the Sisters of Mercy.
Expansion and Growth
Apostolate with Children in school in Italy
Over the years, the congregation grew significantly, expanding its presence within Tanzania and beyond. From the initial five sisters, the congregation has grown to over 400 sisters, with a strong presence in the Diocese of Dodoma and missions in other regions, including Kondoa, Singida, Morogoro, Dar es Salaam, Njombe, and Tanga. Additionally, the congregation has extended its mission to Italy and Germany.
St. Gemma Srs Community in Germany in Sunday mass celebration visited by Mother General Sr. Euphrasia
2022: 75 Years Jubilee Celebration
The congregation celebrated its 75th Jubilee on September 14th, 2022, at the Holy Spirit Cathedral of Kondoa Diocese. The celebration was a significant milestone, marking three-quarters of a century of dedication to the charism of St. Gemma Galgani. The Jubilee was presided over by His Eminence Polycarp Cardinal Pengo, Archbishop Emeritus of Dar es Salaam, who praised the congregation for its sustained commitment to its mission and encouraged the sisters to continue their work with renewed vigour.
Integration into the Passionist Family
In a significant development during the Jubilee year, the Congregation of St. Gemma was officially recognized as part of the Passionist family, and the sisters were granted permission to wear the Passionist badge. This integration symbolises the deep connection between the congregation and the Passionist spirituality that has been at the heart of its mission since its inception.
Legacy and Continuation
Polloni Orphanage home Kondoa.
The legacy of Monsignor Stanislaus Ambrozin and the founding sisters has left an indelible mark on the Congregation of St. Gemma Sisters of Dodoma. Their unwavering faith, commitment to the Gospel, and dedication to serving the marginalised continue to inspire the sisters today. The congregation remains steadfast in its mission to live out the charism of mercy and suffering, bringing the love of Christ to the poor, the sick, and those on the peripheries of society.
As the Congregation of St. Gemma continues its journey, it remains a vibrant testament to the enduring power of faith and the profound influence of St. Gemma Galgani, whose life and spirituality continue to guide and inspire the sisters in their mission to serve God and humanity.