The origins of the Columban Sisters lay in the work of the Reverend Edward J. Galvin, a priest from County Cork, Ireland.
By 1918, he had founded the Columban Fathers, who quickly developed to the point where they could establish their own mission in China within two years.
Among them was Lady Frances Moloney, a widow, Mary Martin, who had gained nursing experience on the battle lines of Somme, and Agnes Ryan, a schoolteacher.
While back in her hometown, Ronayne introduced her to a newly named bishop for Africa, who was also recruiting women to serve in his territory.
Upon completion of the novitiate in 1924, Moloney was professed and the new congregation of the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban was canonically established, with Mother Mary Patrick being appointed as the Superior General.
The outbreak of World War II forced the Sisters from the Allied nations either to leave the country or face house arrest.