Ora
Prayer gave his mission its direction and depth.
The Congregation of the Missionaries of MariannhillThe Congregation of the Missionary Sistersof the Precious Blood
“A life for God
and His People”
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Abbot
Francis Pfanner
Missionary. Founder. Shepherd.
“If no one will go, I will.”
A missionary for our time
A courageous life of prayer, work and service
Born Wendelin Pfanner in Langen, Austria, in 1825, he was ordained a priest in 1850 before entering the Trappist monastery of Mariawald and receiving the religious name Francis.
His answer to a call for missionaries brought him to South Africa. On 26 December 1882, he established Mariannhill near Durban—a community where faith took practical form through schools, healthcare, workshops, printing and agriculture.
His spirituality
Contemplation in action
Francis sought to unite contemplative life with active missionary service. His witness was marked by courage, perseverance and a readiness to go wherever service was needed.
Et Labora
Work became a practical expression of faith and dignity.
For others
Evangelisation stood beside education, care and service.
The foundation of Mariannhill
A monastery made for mission
Under his energetic leadership, Mariannhill developed rapidly as both a monastic and missionary centre. In 1885, Francis became its first Abbot.
That same year he founded the community that became the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood, entrusting a spirit of prayer, work and service to future generations.
Founded 26 December 1882
A life of purpose
The journey of Francis Pfanner
Born in Langen, Vorarlberg, Austria
Ordained to the priesthood in Brixen
Entered Mariawald and received the name Francis
Established Mariastern Monastery in Bosnia
Arrived in South Africa with fellow Trappists
Founded Mariannhill Monastery near Durban
Became first Abbot and founded the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood
Died at Emaus on 24 May
A living legacy
Pray. Work. Go where you are needed.
His legacy continues through Mariannhill, the Missionaries of Mariannhill, the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood, and the communities shaped by their service.
Ora et Labora