Missionaries Of Africa - White Fathers Uk

The Missionaries of Africa (also known as “The White Fathers”), are Catholic international Missionary Society of priests and brothers.

The Missionaries of Africa (also known as “The White Fathers”), are an international Missionary Society of priests and brothers, founded in 1868, by Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, Archbishop of Algiers and Carthage in North Africa. The name “White Fathers” comes from their habit. This is based on the traditional North African dress of a white gown (gandoura) and a white hooded cloak (burnous). A rosary is worn around the neck.

Arrival in Great Britain.

The Missionaries of Africa arrived in Great Britain in 1912. Their first foundation was in the Diocese of Portsmouth at The Priory, Bishops Waltham, Hampshire. The already existing house was opened as a Junior Seminary. During the course of the following years, further houses were opened in both England and Scotland to cater for growing needs.

WHAT WE DO

In Africa, through parish work, building up Small Christian Communities, working with the Media, involvement in justice and peace issues, inter-religious encounter, care for the environment, agriculture, seminary training both for ourselves and for the various dioceses, education and social welfare, the Missionaries of Africa aim to work in partnership with the local Church in Africa…and above all else, to help build up the leadership of the Churches.