Pink Sisters: Brief History of our presence in the Archdiocese of Davao

The Congregation of the SISTER SERVANTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PERPETUAL ADORATION or popularly known as the Pink Sisters due to their rose colored habit is a contemplative missionary congregation founded by St. Arnold Janssen, a German diocesan priest who was also the founder of the Societas Verbi Divini (SVD) and the Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters (SSpS).

In November 5, 1923, the first 10 Sisters from Germany and USA came to the Philippines and from then communities in Baguio, Manila and Cebu were founded. Due to the influx of vocations in these convents, the Congregation remained opened to spreading out whenever a good opportunity presented itself.

Rather unexpectedly, in June 1978, at the suggestion of a zealous Fr. Anselmo Bustos, SVD, an invitation was extended by Archbishop Antonio Mabutas of Davao City. Two Sisters went to Davao to explore the possibilities. Though they were there only overnight, they already “selected” the property and had some medals planted in it to “secure” it for the Congregation since at that time they could not contact the owner.

By the providence of God, the Congregation was able to obtain this suitable piece of land which claims the breath-taking view of both seas and mountains. In December 1978, Mother General Mary Aurora, a Filipina, and her two consultors, were able to travel from West Germany to the Philippines to attend the cornerstone-laying by Archbishop Mabutas.

Soon afterwards, the hilly property on which the building was to rise was levelled and construction began. In September 1980, a few Sisters could move into one finished wing of the convent, while the rest of the construction continued. On November 20, 1980, the building was completed and inaugurated.

Many people came for this occasion, for it would be their last opportunity to view the majestic Mt. Apo from the cloister garden. From this point on, perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament exposed has been a haven and an oasis for those who come and visit the chapel.