Mother Costanza Caldara, the second Superior General of the Comboni Missionary Sisters, led the congregation through a period of significant growth and challenges in the early 20th century. Her vision, rooted in Comboni’s charism, propelled the Pie Madri to new frontiers in Africa and Europe.
Twice in the congregation’s early chronicles, it was prophesied that the young Costanza Caldara would one day become Superior General. Entering the institute during Comboni’s lifetime, she embodied a direct link to the founder’s spirit and missionary program.
Recognizing Costanza’s potential, Mother Maria Bollezzoli wisely prepared her for future leadership. When Costanza returned from Egypt in 1887 to serve as novice mistress, Maria graciously welcomed her, delegating responsibilities and fostering her growth.
Elected Vicar General in 1898 and confirmed as Superior General after Maria’s death, Costanza wasted no time in realizing Comboni’s expansive missionary vision. She understood that the congregation must look beyond Central Africa, courageously opening new missions in East Africa and establishing a community in France.
Under her guidance, over 30 communities blossomed across Central Africa. Costanza also grasped the importance of securing the congregation’s future through a stable patrimony. In 1905, she acquired a property in Bergamo, providing a home for the postulants and contributing to the institute’s approval by the Holy See in 1906.
As the Comboni mission faced the challenges of division and linguistic disputes, Costanza stood firm. When Bishop Geiger pushed for German sisters in North Sudan, Costanza insisted that the Pie Madri, with their command of Arabic and English, were born for the whole of Sudan and must remain. Her tenacity, bolstered by the outbreak of World War I, ensured the congregation’s continued presence.
Costanza’s commitment to fostering missionary vocations, regardless of financial means, led to the purchase of the Cesiolo property in 1914. This acquisition, made possible by the administrative division funds, provided much-needed space for the growing congregation.
Through more than three decades of leadership, Costanza navigated the Pie Madri through the trials of expansion, division, and war. Her unwavering fidelity to Comboni’s vision and her strategic foresight laid the groundwork for the congregation’s future flourishing.
Mother Costanza Caldara’s life stands as a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership. Steeped in Comboni’s spirit, she guided the Pie Madri with courage, wisdom, and a steadfast commitment to the missionary call. From expanding the congregation’s reach to securing its future, Costanza’s decisions were always rooted in a deep trust in God’s providence and a burning desire to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
