Pioneer Sisters

Our Story…

The Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM), approved in 1931 as a Pontifical Congregation, are dedicated to International Missionary work, specifically evangelization, education, healthcare, and pastoral care among the poor and marginalized.

Pioneer Sisters

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Pioneer Sisters 〰️

Inspired by faith and courage, our Religious Congregation traces its beginnings to Marie-Françoise Perroton and ten other valiant women (Pioneers) who journeyed from France to Oceania between 1845 and 1860.

Regional Teams - 2026-2028 Region of the Americas Region of Africa-Europe Region of Asia-Pacific Region of Oceania **

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Regional Teams - 2026-2028 Region of the Americas Region of Africa-Europe Region of Asia-Pacific Region of Oceania ** 〰️

Region of the Americas: Sisters Catia Conterno from Brazil-USA, Palepa Ioane (Regional) from Samoa, Margarita Tavara from Peru and Senitila Latu from Tonga.

Region of Africa-Europe: Sisters Christiana Nshimiyimana from Rwanda, Marisa Bessachi from Italy, Athanasie Hakizuwambasa (Regional) from Rwanda and Telesia Masei from Futuna.

Region of Asia-Pacific: Sisters Lusia Meanadrau from Fiji, Monika Pagatele from Futuna, Malia Koleti Uvea (Regional) from Tonga and Jennifer Clarke from Australia.

The Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM), as a congregation of pontifical right, are governed by a General Administration based in Rome and fall under the jurisdiction of the Dicastery for Evangelization, formerly known as the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.[6] This structure ensures centralized leadership while allowing for regional autonomy in missionary activities. The General Administration comprises the Congregational Leader, who serves as the Superior General, along with three General Councillors.

Region of Oceania: Sisters Malia Nive Kepu (Regional) from Tonga, Anunisia Fifita from Tonga, Masela Tenisio from Samoa and Patricia Leamy from New Zealand.

Generalate * Superior General * Councilors ***

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Generalate * Superior General * Councilors *** 〰️

Sr. Cristina Giustozzi from Italy (Congregational Leader) and Council; Sisters Aubierge Amoussou from Benin, Denise McMahon from Australia and Pelenatita Kieoma Finau from Tonga.

Congregational Official Website:

https://www.smsmsisters.org/

For more information please contact :

Sr. Cristina Giustozzi through e-mail: scristinasmsm@gmail.com

Marist Young Professional Group through the Marist Brothers USA visited Jamaica - 2026.

Sisters in the Region of the Americas who were at the last Annual Assembly in Waltham, USA.

Sr. Cristina Giustozzi and Council, Regional Teams and some of the Sisters in Fiji.

Outgoing and Incoming Regional Teams.