Four decades after departing due to anti-Catholic hostility, the Little Sisters of Mary Immaculate have returned to Mozambique, embraced by a heartfelt reception in Dómuè, Tete Diocese. Sister Mirian dos Santos expressed the overwhelming delight of the congregation, humbled by the eager anticipation after a 40-year absence.

She said: “Seeing how much the people were waiting for our presence, after 40 years without consecrated women religious, exceeded our expectations.

“It was a very simple, but very generous welcome.”

Engaging in pastoral work and catechesis for over 100 community leaders, the Sisters, including Sister Rita Nascimento, are eager to spread the Gospel's joy among those seeking spiritual nourishment.

Sister dos Santos requested prayers for their mission's triumph and acknowledged the potential need for support, including a vehicle, to reach distant communities.

ACN's past support for the diocese was praised by Bishop Antunes, who lauded their contributions to seminarian education, infrastructure restoration, chapel construction, and more.

The bishop added: “ACN helps in many ways: in the formation of seminarians, supporting the restoration of infrastructure, building chapels, purchasing vehicles and, very recently, in the purchase of equipment for our diocesan radio station, so that we can improve our broadcasts.”

He added: “Thank you to all the benefactors, and to all those who make the mission of ACN possible.”