Prayers to Saint Annibale

Inspired by Jesus' divine command, Saint Annibale Maria Di Francia (1851 - 1927) founded the Daughters of Divine Zeal in Messina, Sicily, Italy in 1887. Ten years later he founded the Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus (RCJ). He is known as the Patron of Vocations and the Father of Orphans and of the Poor.

A Brief Chronology of the Life of Saint Annibale Maria Di Francia shows a glimpse into the devotions and works of our Founder. At an early age he was already aware of the lack of good workers in the Church and deeply felt in his heart the need for more holy priests, nuns, brothers, catechists and other lay workers who could help alleviate people's suffering from material, moral and spiritual deprivation.

Madre Maria Nazarena Majone (1869 - 1939), the co-Foundress of the Daughters of Divine Zeal was one of Saint Annibale Maria Di Francia's faithful followers and collaborator.

At 18 she entered the newly-founded Congregation and lived its mission with remarkable humility in prayer and effective witnessing among the poor, the orphans, the outcasts, the needy... She was a Mother, Teacher, Friend and Servant of all. Her example of holiness and fidelity continues to inspire the Daughters of Divine Zeal all over the world.

The Daughters of Divine Zeal and Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus are sisters and brothers in the Rogate. We were born from the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus and were cradled in the bosom of Avignone Quarters - in the midst of the poorest of the poor of Messina in Italy. Our two communities along with the Priestly Alliance for Vocations (PAV) and the Union of Prayer for Vocations (UPV), also founded by Saint Annibale, continue his mission in answer to Jesus' divine command today.

Our Mission and Spirituality