History

The Little Sisters of St. Therese of the child Jesus are an international religious Congregation dedicated to the apostolic life with perpetual Vows under the protection of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. It was founded in 1923 by Canon Giuseppe Mazzanti and Mother Maria Zanelli. Following the Little way of St. Therese, we dedicate our lives to the service of the church especially among the needy brothers and sisters. The head quarter is the mother house which is based in Italy where the superior General and her council reside. Each country has a representative known as Delegate and local superiors who work closely with the Mother General.

Our Patron Saint and Our Founders

St. Therese of the Child Jesus

St. Therese of the Child Jesus, also known as the Little Flower, is our patron saint. Her life of simplicity, humility, and love for God inspires us to follow her “little way” of trusting God with childlike faith and spreading love through small acts of kindness.

Mother Maria Zanelli

Mother Maria Zanelli, one of our founders, dedicated her life to serving God and the community with compassion and faith. Her vision and commitment laid the foundation for the growth of our congregation.

Father Giuseppe Mazzanti

Father Giuseppe Mazzanti, co-founder, guided the congregation with wisdom and pastoral care. His spiritual leadership and devotion to the Church continue to inspire our mission and service.

Our Milestone

Our Presence

We are serving in Africa and Europe. In Africa, we are present in Kenya (Meru County, Nakuru County, Nairobi County) and Tanzania (Katavi Region). In Europe, we are present in Italy, Brazil, France, Mexico, and Switzerland.

Our Global Presence

Our mission extends across continents, building communities of faith, service, and love. We are dedicated to serving people in different regions of Africa and Europe. Each presence signifies a step in spreading hope and support.

Countries We Serve

Kenya

Tanzania

Italy

Brazil

France

Mexico

Switzerland

Our Maps

Charism and Spirituality

Charism

Our charism is rooted in living out the love of Christ through service, humility, and compassion. It is expressed in daily actions, guiding us to bring hope, peace, and joy to those around us.

Spirituality

Our spirituality draws us closer to God through prayer, devotion, and acts of love. It inspires us to live with humility, compassion, and faith, always trusting in the goodness of the Father.

Our Devotions

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

Devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel emphasizes prayer, penance, and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. This devotion invites believers to follow her example of humility, faith, and dedication to Christ.

St. Joseph

St. Joseph, the humble and faithful spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is honored as the protector of families and workers. His life teaches us patience, trust in God, and dedication to family and service.

Our Core Values

A short guide to the principles that shape our community and work.

Merciful Love

We reach out with compassion, forgiving and caring for one another without condition.

Fraternal Charity

We build community through mutual support and generous service to the poor and vulnerable.

Simplicity & Humility

We live simply and humbly, keeping our focus on what truly matters.

Confidence

We act with quiet trust — in our mission, in one another, and in the guidance we receive.

Piety

Prayer and reverence guide our daily life and decisions.

Joyfulness

We cultivate a spirit of joy that uplifts our work and community relationships.

Accountability

We are transparent and responsible for our actions toward each other and those we serve.

Abandonment

We trustfully abandon ourselves to divine providence, guided by faith in every step.

Our History