The charism of the Cottolengo Fathers — formally the Brothers of Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo — is centered on charity and service to the poor, the sick, the disabled, the elderly, and those most in need. Inspired by Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, members live the Gospel through practical works of mercy, seeing Christ in the least of society and dedicating themselves to pastoral care, healthcare assistance, education, and community support. Their spirituality emphasizes humility, compassion, and availability to serve everywhere the plight of marginalized people calls them.

The Cottolengo Fathers trace their origins to Turin, Italy, where St. Joseph Benedict Cottolengo (1786–1842) founded the Piccola Casa della Divina Provvidenza (“Little House of Divine Providence”) to serve those rejected by hospitals and society. From this initiative grew several religious communities dedicated to various forms of charity; the Congregation of the Brothers of Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo was canonically established in 1833 and later received pontifical recognition as a lay religious congregation of men. The society expanded its apostolate of serving the sick, handicapped, aged, homeless, and abandoned beyond Italy into mission countries, including Kenya and reportedly Tanzania, where they work in local centers of health, care, and spiritual accompaniment.

Cottolengo Fathers – Kenya (Cottolengo Society of Kenya) Vocation Director/Vocation Contact: Email: benmukiri@gmail.com Phone: +254 723 420 301 Address: P.O. Box 24391–00502, Karen, Nairobi, Kenya General Headquarters – Brothers of St. Joseph Benedict Cottolengo (Italy) Address: Via Cottolengo 14, 10152 Torino, Italy Phone: +39 011 522 50 80 (You can contact the general headquarters to be connected with vocation directors for nearest formation houses.)