About Us
Our Heritage
Learn about the roots that shaped our mission.
St Magdalene of Canossa ·
Foundress, Canossian Sisters, Servants of the Poor
Our Foundress
Charity in humility.
Canossa Mission Singapore traces its roots to the vision of St Magdalene of Canossa, who exemplified "charity in humility" with her active compassion for the poor and vulnerable of her time.
“Let us work where the need is the greatest.”
Foundress, Canossian Sisters, Servants of the Poor
ACROSS THE CENTURIES
From Verona, to the Far East, to Singapore,
to today.
-
1808
A life of active compassion
In Verona, Italy, St Magdalene, overcoming strong family opposition, left a life of nobility to answer God's calling and establish the Canossian Sisters. Inspired by her remarkable charity, the order quickly grew as more joined her mission. Together, the Sisters reached out to the poorest and most vulnerable across the world through education, pastoral care, and compassionate presence.
-
1894
Canossian Sisters arrive in Singapore
Guided by St Magdalene’s belief to "work where the need is greatest", the Canossian Sisters of Macau arrived in Singapore in 1894 to support the local communities through education and care for the vulnerable. Over time, these early efforts grew into enduring works that continue today in new forms.
-
Today
The mission arm of the Canossian Sisters
Canossa Mission Singapore was established in 2010 as the mission arm of the Canossian Sisters, aiming to preserve their heritage and continue their work in Singapore. Together with its Mission Companions, Canossa Mission Singapore addresses the educational, pastoral care, and lifelong formation needs of individuals, families, and communities.
Committed to respond to the three cries: of the poor, the young, and the Earth
While societal needs have changed, St Magdalene’s mission of compassion and care—supporting every individual to live with dignity and thrive—remains essential today.
ONE MISSION. MANY EXPRESSIONS. ACCOMPANIMENT, ALWAYS.
You belong in this story.
We welcome supporters, partners, volunteers, staff, and all individuals of goodwill to join us in continuing our Canossian heritage.