Elisa, Mother Clotilde Gigli’s given name, was born on January 18, 1872. Growing up, little Elisa found herself surrounded by a lively majority of siblings, in a noisy and cheerful home. However, her aunt and uncle, who were childless, had a certain soft spot for their niece and took her in with her parents’ permission. She grew up beautiful, happy, strong, and well-off. She passed the school run by the Sisters of St. Joseph with flying colors.

After a long period of prayer, Mother Clotilde and another nun planned to go to Rome with Father Ducceschi. The outcome was positive; on June 23, 1922, Bishop Giovanni Piccoini issued a “decree” confirming and founding the new Congregation of the Little Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. A fresh start was needed. After a spiritual retreat, they renewed and confirmed their religious profession before the Bishop. With the Bishop, his secretary, and the Parish Priest presiding, the sisters elected a Superior General, a Vicaress, Councilors, a Novice Mistress, and a Treasurer.