Jubilation as Daughters of St. Joseph Mark 150 Years of Existence
By Polycarp Ifeanyi, Onitsha
The Congregation of the Daughters of St. Joseph of Rivalba was thrown into jubilation on December 6, 2025, as its members celebrated the 150th anniversary of the congregation’s foundation (1875–2025).
In his congratulatory message, the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, imparted his apostolic blessing to the Superior-General of the congregation, Mother Elizabeth Ferreria De Freitas, and to all members of the Daughters of St. Joseph of Rivalba on the occasion of their 150th anniversary.
He invoked heavenly grace and the continuous protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary upon them.
In his goodwill message, the Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, described the celebration of 150 years as a significant milestone, noting that such longevity indicates that the congregation has indeed come a long way.
He described the Daughters of St. Joseph as a precious gift that only God could bestow, stressing that the congregation has every reason to rejoice and be grateful.
The event was held at SS. John and Paul Parish, popularly known as Iba Pope, Awada, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The celebration began with a pontifical Holy Mass presided over by Archbishop Okeke, who was represented by the Abbot of Nsugbe Monastic Abbey, Rt. Rev. Dom Marius Okoye, alongside other priests.
During the homily, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike reminded the congregation that the celebration marked a jubilee for the Daughters of St. Joseph.
He emphasized that reaching 150 years is a profound blessing and a cause for great celebration. He traced the biblical origins of jubilee observances to the Old Testament, explaining that the Israelites used them to express gratitude to God.
“When you remember what God has done for you, it becomes your duty to show appreciation. Jubilee is, therefore, a thanksgiving to God. One hundred and fifty years is not one hundred and fifty days. It is indeed worthy of celebration,” he said.
Fr. Adimike, who also serves as the Onitsha Archdiocesan Director of Communications, explained that the Daughters of St. Joseph were founded on November 12, 1875, in Rivalba (Turin), Italy, by Blessed Clement Marchisio, then the parish priest of the town.
He noted that Marchisio’s initial aim was to help young girls learn trades such as weaving and sewing so they would not have to travel far from home to earn a living.
By 1880, Don Marchisio desired that the Sisters devote themselves entirely to Eucharistic worship, having observed that Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament was often neglected and that the Holy Mass was not given due reverence.
Speaking on the congregation’s arrival in Onitsha, Fr. Adimike explained that it was inspired by the hospitality shown to the then Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Stephen N. Ezeanya, by the Sisters in Rome during his illness.
Their Eucharistic spirituality, coupled with strong commendations from Lady V. V. I. Okoye, prompted Archbishop Ezeanya to approve the establishment of the Sisters’ community in Nigeria, specifically within the Onitsha Archdiocese.
In her address, the Superior of the congregation, Sister Stella Chioma Nnadi, emphasized that their charism is centered on the worship of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, which serves as their guiding light and source of inspiration. She explained that the Sisters strive to live out this charism by adoring Christ and inspiring others to adore Him, serving Him and leading others to serve, and loving Him and helping others to love Him in the Blessed Sacrament.
She highlighted that the congregation’s history is a testament to God’s faithfulness and love, noting that they produce altar bread, wine, sacred linens, and vestments in Nigeria. Their altar bread, she added, is reputed to be the best in the country, supplying many dioceses within and outside Nigeria.
Speaking with journalists, Sister Chioma expressed gratitude to God for the success of the celebration, stating that it surpassed their expectations. She explained that a strong passion for the Eucharist is a key criterion for joining the congregation. Applicants above thirty may not be accepted if they are graduates, while O’Level applicants must be at least twenty-five years old and have credits in English and Mathematics.
“Our duties in the Church also include training couples, catechesis, preparing candidates for Holy Communion, organizing seminars, and hosting Eucharistic conferences,” she added.
The Parish Priest of Iba Pope, Awada, Rev. Fr. Dr. Aloysius Agba, expressed profound appreciation to Archbishop Okeke, represented by Rt. Rev. Dom Marius, as well as to the priests, religious, superior generals, rectors, and lay faithful for their support and participation.
Similarly, the Mother General of the Daughters of St. Joseph, Mother Elizabeth Ferreria De Freitas, through a message read by the Vicar General, Sister Josephine Ifeoma Ebi, expressed gratitude to God and to Rt. Rev. Dom Marius, the chief celebrant, as well as to all Daughters of St. Joseph who gathered across different locations to mark the 150th anniversary. She described their founder’s vision as a small seed planted by Blessed Clement Marchisio that has continued to flourish in the Church—truly a work of the Lord and marvelous in their sight.
Rt. Rev. Dom Marius, in his remarks, thanked Archbishop Valerian Okeke for giving him the privilege to celebrate the Mass on his behalf. He also commended the priests, religious, celebrants, and invited guests.
Dignitaries at the event included the Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government, Hon. Tony Nwora, who represented Governor Charles Soludo; Sly Ezeokenwa; parish councillors of Iba Pope; and Dr. Mrs. Katia Ekesi, among others.
The highlights of the celebration included the cutting of the anniversary cake, drama presentations, cultural dances, a welcome song, and other performances.
