COMBONI MISSIONARY SISTER

Comboni Missionary Sister –  Sister Maria Giannina Rafaele, S.M.C.                                                                                                            Missionary Sister of Verona                                                                                                         “Piae Madre Nigritiae”  –  “Devout Mother of Africa”

Founder:  Saint Daniel Comboni

Place:  Verona, Italy

Year:  1872 A.D.

Her Charism:  Consecrated to God for the mission ad gentes (to the nations), this Sister is passionate about Christ and Africa.  She is an instrument of compassion for the poorest and most forsaken.  Contemplating Christ’s Pierced Heart on the Cross (Her life and source of strength, she makes Jesus’ sentiments known.  This is a woman not afraid to dare.  She is a bridge of reconciliation and forgiveness and a “weaver of dialogue” for unity among all cultures and peoples in our fragmented world.  This stouthearted and loving Sister illumines all peoples with the light of the Gospel and Christ.  As sister and companion to all with whom she walks on her mission journey, she willingly struggles and groans under the burden of suffering and offers whatever it takes – including her own life – for the salvation of souls.