Our History

In the latter half of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, God inspired many extraordinary individuals to spread the Good News across continents, notably in Africa—an era marked by great missionary zeal. Numerous congregations, both of women and men, emerged, each endowed with a unique Charism yet united in their mission to advance the Kingdom of God.

Among these missionaries, Teresa Kearney, revered as Mother Kevin, stands as one of Africa’s most illustrious figures, celebrated for her boundless charity and generosity. In 1902, Kevin Kearney, a Franciscan Missionary, answered Bishop Henry Hanlon’s call and journeyed to Uganda alongside five fellow missionaries: Mother Mary Paul (Superior), Sisters Solano, Marcella, Andrea, and Alexis, all from the Mill Hill Missionaries.

Following in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, who dedicated his life to imitating Christ’s humility and love for the poor, Mother Kevin exemplified the Franciscan tradition of simplicity and service. Her enduring legacy includes the founding of the congregation of the Little Sisters of St. Francis on May 1, 1923—twenty years after her arrival in Uganda. She dedicated herself to equipping these Sisters with skills that empowered them to lead effectively among their people, guided by Christ’s message of love and compassion.