Venerable Father Antonio Pagani
(1526–1589)
Founder of the Dimesse Sisters - Daughters of Mary Immaculate
Father Antonio Pagani
Father Antonio Pagani, a Franciscan priest of the Order of Friars Minor, was born in 1526 in Vicenza, Italy. From an early age, he exhibited deep devotion and intellect. He pursued studies in both civil and canon law at the University of Padua, graduating at the age of 19. Later, he embraced the Franciscan way of life and was ordained a priest in 1558.
Father Pagani played a prominent role in the Catholic Reformation. As a theologian, he participated in the Council of Trent (1545–1563), which sought to address the challenges posed by the Protestant Reformation. He was entrusted with implementing the Council's decrees in his native region, focusing on spiritual renewal and the evangelization of the faithful.
Founding of the Dimesse Sisters
Inspired by the Council’s emphasis on education and spiritual growth, Father Pagani envisioned a community of laypeople and religious dedicated to spreading the Gospel. In 1579, he founded the Dimesse Sisters, also known as the “Company of the Madonna.” The term “Dimesse” reflects humility, derived from the Italian word meaning “resigned” or “humbled.”
The first members of the Dimesse Sisters were women from noble families in Vicenza, including Madonna Deianira Valmarana, who became one of his most devoted followers. Under Father Pagani’s guidance, they embraced a life of simplicity, prayer, and service, focusing on catechesis, visiting the sick, and educating the youth. This new community emphasized meditation on Scripture and a Christ-centered spirituality, living out the Gospel with humility and love.
Legacy and Spirituality
Father Pagani’s work extended beyond the Dimesse Sisters. He founded the Brothers of the Holy Cross, a male counterpart, and nurtured a broad network of followers, including laypeople and members of the Third Order of St. Francis. He dedicated his ministry to saving souls, particularly those in prisons, hospitals, and the marginalized in society. His spiritual approach was characterized by deep compassion, resilience against heresies, and unwavering dedication to Catholic teaching.
Father Pagani passed away in 1589, leaving behind a legacy of renewal and service. His remains are interred at the Franciscan convent of San Pancrazio in Vicenza. In recognition of his holiness and influence, the Church declared him Venerable, on the 22nd of June 2023, a step towards sainthood.
Global Influence of the Dimesse Sisters
The seed sown by Father Pagani flourished beyond Italy, reaching missions in Africa, Brazil, and India. The Dimesse Sisters arrived in Kenya in 1965, where they established their ministry in North Kinangop, responding to the Church's call to evangelize in new territories.
Today, the Dimesse Sisters continue Father Pagani's mission, serving in education, catechesis, and pastoral work while embodying the values of humility, love, and service instilled by their founder.