SCHÖNSTATT, APOSTOLIC MOVEMENT of. - It arose at the shrine of « Mater Ter Admirabilis » at S., in the diocese of Trier, through the work of Giuseppe Kentenich, during the war of 1914–18, for the formation of the laity for the apostolate and for Catholic Action.
It has an eminently Marian character and is directed by the Society of the Catholic Apostolate and by secular priests. It is also widespread abroad, has a rich ascetical and pedagogical literature, and has made a valuable contribution to the Catholic revival in Germany.
In the women’s branch of the movement work the Suore Mariane, founded in 1926 by Kentenich himself, who in 1948 were approved by the Holy See as a secular Institute without vows. They are present in central Europe, America, and South Africa, numbering 1,856, with 202 novices in 154 houses or stations.