Zimbabwe: The Little Children of Our Blessed Lady (LCBL) Sisters are preparing for a pivotal moment in their congregational journey the 11th General Chapter, scheduled for August 2025 in Harare. This sacred assembly will mark a significant chapter in their spiritual and missionary life, inviting reflection, renewal, and discernment as the Sisters set direction for their future.
Coinciding with the global Jubilee Year of Hope, the General Chapter will be more than an administrative gathering it will be a moment of deep spiritual significance. Delegates will reflect on the congregation’s founding spirit, revisit their mission, and respond prayerfully to the changing needs of the Church and society.
Founded in 1932 by Jesuit Bishop Aston Ignatius Chichester, the LCBL Sisters are Zimbabwe’s first indigenous religious congregation. Their life and mission are deeply anchored in Marian spirituality, inspired by the humility, simplicity, and joy of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
For over nine decades, the Sisters have served tirelessly in education, healthcare, and social outreach, bringing healing and hope especially to women, children, and marginalized communities. Today, with 178 members active in Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom, their compassionate service continues to radiate Christ’s love to the world.
The General Chapter, held every six years, is a vital moment of communal prayer and decision-making. It gathers elected Sisters from across the congregation to reflect on their shared mission, evaluate current realities, and chart the way forward. The Chapter process begins well before the gathering, with contributions and proposals collected from all members to ensure inclusive participation.
The Chapter will culminate in the election of new leadership, entrusted with guiding the congregation through its next season of ministry. This prayerful process embodies a spirit of unity and trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
The 2025 Chapter will unfold under the theme:
“Gazing upon Christ as Consecrated Women for Mission.”
This theme calls the Sisters to deepen their relationship with Christ drawing strength for mission through personal transformation and communal renewal. It invites them to respond with fresh vision and energy to the signs of the times within the Church, their ministries, and society.
In a recent interview, Sr. Anita Jonga, the outgoing Superior General, reflected on her six-year term with gratitude and humility. “We have witnessed the hand of God in both our growth and our trials,” she shared. She expressed joy at seeing many Sisters mature in their vocation, embracing their consecrated life with deeper faith and resilience.
Despite facing daunting challenges including economic instability, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic the LCBL Sisters remained steadfast. “Our Sisters have shown courage, adaptability, and unwavering trust in God's providence,” Sr. Jonga said.
Sr. Jonga acknowledged the decline in religious vocations and ongoing financial difficulties as significant concerns. Yet, she affirmed that the congregation continues to move forward with hope. “Even in the face of trials, our strength is rooted in the Lord,” she emphasized. She expressed heartfelt thanks to the bishops, clergy, and fellow religious for their collaboration, and to the lay faithful for their encouragement and support. “You are the reason for our mission,” she said. Looking ahead to the upcoming Chapter, Sr. Jonga offered a prayerful hope:
“May this sacred gathering deepen our unity, renew our zeal, and give us the courage to go where we are most needed bringing hope to women, children, and communities who rely on our care.” As the LCBL Sisters prepare for this significant spiritual milestone, they remain deeply committed to their founding charism and to walking boldly into the future grounded in faith, united in mission, and radiant in hope.