Every March 16, at Sisters Hospitallers we celebrate the Day of the Constitutions, commemorating the moment when Pope Pius X definitively approved our founding document in 1908. These Constitutions serve as the guiding principles of the Congregation, shaping its mission, values, and commitment to hospitality and service.
The Constitutions were originally written in 1882 by Saint Benedict Menni to guide the first Sisters in their mission of hospitality. Over time, they have been revised to reflect the changing needs of society and the Church while maintaining their core purpose: to be a “Book of Life” that embodies the Gospel in a hospitaller way.
As Saint Benedict Menni encouraged: “Read them, my daughters, study them, reflect on them, and make them the subject of your prayers, asking the Lord for the grace to live them with a docile heart, pleasing the Holy Spirit.”
The latest revision process was a collective effort involving over 900 sisters worldwide, ensuring that the Constitutions continue to serve as a faithful guide for modern times. Discover more about the renewed Constitutions here.
The Constitutions emphasize:
A deep understanding of spirituality, recognizing hospitality as a way of life that extends beyond prayer to all aspects of personal and community existence.
Continued formation for all Sisters, ensuring ongoing personal and spiritual growth throughout their religious life.
Interculturality, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the Sisters and their mission across 25 countries.
A renewed vision of authority as service, reinforcing leadership based on humility, responsibility, and commitment to others
At Sisters Hospitallers we continue to uphold their mission of serving those who suffer, particularly those with mental illness and disabilities, aligning with the growing global focus on mental health care.
We see our Constitutions as a spiritual roadmap, guiding them to live in the spirit of Christ the Good Samaritan. As they celebrate this anniversary, they renew their commitment to serving the sick and vulnerable with compassion, faith, and dedication.
Learn more about the history and significance of the Constitutions here: The Sisters Hospitallers’ Constitutions