The Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady in Portugal

With over 150 years of presence in Portugal, the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady have witnessed and adapted to the rapid transformations in Portuguese society and the world, distinguished by their notable actions. This research project aimed to document their history from their arrival in Portugal to the present day.

This project sought to trace the history of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady, or Franciscan Missionaries of Calais, in Portugal, integrating the description and understanding of the reported events within the broader context of the Congregation’s history as well as Portuguese history. It aimed to capture the phases of their evolution. The resulting work, published in 2021, covered aspects such as the attempt to establish the Congregation in Lisbon (1868-1875); the definitive establishment in Northern Portugal and its expansion and consolidation (1875-1910); the dramatic experience during the First Portuguese Republic (1910-1926); the resurgence, expansion, and renewal of the Institute in Portugal (1927-1974); the process of the Portuguese Province’s autonomy and deepening of Franciscan spirituality (1974-1992); their evolution over the last 25 years, during which the institution reinforced its missionary vocation and developed significant collaboration with lay people.

The project resulted in the publication of a comprehensive work, launched in August 2021.

Funding: Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady

Coordination: Fernando de Sousa and Diogo Ferreira

Duration: 2018-2021