Founded by Saint Alphonsus in 1732, the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists) is a community of missionary clergy. This congregation includes members from various rites, holds pontifical status, and operates independently of local diocesan jurisdiction. Its primary mission is “to follow the example of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, by proclaiming the Gospel to the poor, as He said of Himself: ‘He has sent me to bring good news to the poor.'”
Thus, the Congregation participates in the mission of the Church, which, as the universal sacrament of salvation, is inherently missionary in nature. The Congregation fulfills its mission by responding to pastoral needs and preaching the Gospel to the most neglected, particularly the poor, driven by missionary zeal. The Congregation follows the example of Christ through an apostolic life, which includes a life specially dedicated to God and the missionary work of the Redemptorists.
To fulfill its mission in the Church, the Congregation unites its members who, by living in community, form a missionary body. Although their services are diverse, all members dedicate themselves in an organic unity to one mission, which they have vowed through their profession. All Redemptorists are called to be guided by the apostolic spirit and inspired by the zeal of their founder, mindful of their community’s traditions and the signs of the times. (From the Constitution/Rule of the Order)
In Flanders, the Netherlands, northern Germany, and Switzerland, the Redemptorists have formed an administrative unit since 2005: the Province of St. Clement. This province encompasses around 15 locations where approximately 110 Redemptorists and others reside. In some places, pastoral presence and work are a shared responsibility between the province members and dedicated lay partners. Additionally, the Province of St. Clement is also responsible for the so-called Vice-Province of Matadi (in Congo). The Redemptorists of the Province of St. Clement aim to introduce themselves and their activities through this website.
Discover everything you need to know about the history, mission, and spirituality of the Redemptorists in 10 points.