About Us
We are a religious institute founded in 1872 by Ven. Mgr. Peter Joseph Savelberg, parish priest of Heerlen in the Netherlands. We are called to discern and be ready to assist where our helping hands are needed most. The institute forms part of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis of Assisi and was aggregated to the Order of Friars Minor on October 12, 1907. Our life is drawn from elements which bring together the essence of being Franciscan and Apostolic.
Our Charism
Helping where nobody helps by striving to serve with love in society through evangelization, healthcare, education, hospitality, and social transformation. Following the footsteps of our founder Savelberg, we are called to lead a simple life animated with humility in imitation of our patron Saint Joseph in deep union with God.
Our Vision
A religious, apostolic institute that is united and committed to serve the most vulnerable in the spirit of Christ. Thus creating an atmosphere of order, sharing, and co-responsibility. Life exists where there is bonding, communion, and fraternity which is strengthened when built on true relationship and fidelity.
Our Mission
The Little Sisters of St. Joseph participate in the pastoral mission of the Church through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, performing many different services for people. This must proceed from an intimate union with Christ and always be directed towards Him according to the needs and signs of time and place.
Continue Reading →Our Ministries & Communities
Serving across Kenya and Tanzania
Kilgoris Community
Offering health services
Karen Community
Formation and spiritual home
Dede Community
Community development
Olesentu Community
Offering education services
Kilgoris Community
Pastoral centre services
Adams Arcade Community
Offering retreat services
Our Communities in Kenya and Tanzania:
- Kilgoris
- Olesentu
- Abosi
- Lemek
- Narok
- Adams Arcade
- Karen
- Kiserian
- Nyahururu
- Kitui
- Homabay
- Namanga
- Arusha
- Mto wa Mbu
- Dede
Congregational Anthem
Little Sisters of St. Joseph Kenya Tanzania Province
We the Little Sisters of St. Joseph,
rooted in the spirit of divine providence
after the life of Monsignor Peter Joseph Savelberg,
still believe that God has helped us,
God is helping us, God will always help us.
God of love and grace, inspire every member of our congregation,
to seek you alone, through prayer and service to the little ones.
God of time and eternity, bless the nations in which we live and work,
accompany us in our mission here on earth.
We bless you Lord for our vocation, Mother Province the Netherlands,
we bless our patron St. Joseph, St. Francis and Mary our good mother.
Our Formation Stages
1. Aspirancy
First stage to religious life. Designed to become familiar with the way of life of our institute.
2. Postulancy
Second stage to religious life. Here, the development of human and spiritual dimensions are harmoniously united.
3. Novitiate
Third stage to religious life. Focused on the formation of the mind and heart according to the norms of the institute.
Our Vows
As members of a religious order, The Little Sisters of St. Joseph take three vows — poverty, chastity, and obedience. This entails a broader dedication to the universal Church and to the greater good of all people from all faiths and cultures. As companions of Jesus, all this flows from our personal relationships with Christ and our motto:
"God helped, God is helping, God will always help." — Mgr. Peter Joseph Savelberg