The St. Peter the Apostle Society, an embodiment of unwavering faith and devotion, finds its roots in the heart of Cain, France. Founded in 1889 by two remarkable laywomen, Jeanne Bigard and her mother Stephanie, this society emerged from personal tragedies that transformed into an unyielding dedication to the mission. 

Learn more about our History, Donate to our Appeals


Purpose 

Nurturing Seeds of Service

In the late 19th century, amidst personal trials, Jeanne and Stephanie Bigard embarked on a journey that would change lives across continents. Their encounter with a French missionary in Kyoto, Japan, marked a turning point. With determination, they sold their own possessions to fund the construction of a church in Kyoto. A year later, the Bishop of Nagasaki sought their assistance for seminarians, giving birth to the St. Peter the Apostle Society.

This society carries the torch of supporting and fostering the formation of local clergy in mission dioceses, where the Church’s growth is most vibrant. Young churches, brimming with faith but often lacking resources, benefit from the Society’s support in training individuals who yearn to serve as priests, religious sisters, or brothers.

Initiatives/Projects

Empowering Lives, Illuminating Communities 

The St. Peter the Apostle Society focuses its efforts on nurturing vocations within young churches, where the spirit of faith is vibrant, and the need for clergy is pressing. Through training programs rooted in cultural understanding, the Society equips aspiring priests, religious sisters, brothers, and catechists with the skills to serve their communities effectively.

Ghana

In partnership with local communities, we’re fostering the formation of clergy and catechists who will become pillars of faith, knowledge, and compassion in their neighbourhoods. 
Learn More

Malawi

Our initiatives in Malawi revolve around empowering individuals to take up the mantle of service, enriching their communities with the light of faith. 
Learn More…

Sierra Leone

The Society’s work in Sierra Leone is sowing the seeds of transformation, training future clergy and religious leaders who will guide their people with faith and dedication. 
Learn More…

Be the Beacon of Change