Faith and Leadership at the UN: St. Michael’s College Highlights Sr. Sarah Rudolph, CJ

18 hours ago
2 min read

It is always meaningful when respected academic institutions recognize the work of Catholic women religious and help bring that witness into wider conversation. Recently, the University of St. Michael’s College featured Sr. Sarah Rudolph, CJ, in its InsightOut series through the article “Representing the Congregation of Jesus at the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women.” The article reflects on her experience representing the Congregation of Jesus at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), one of the most significant global forums dedicated to gender equality and the dignity of women.

For the Congregation of Jesus in Canada, this recognition is important because it helps make visible a mission that often happens quietly. The work of the sisters reaches beyond schools, retreat centres, and local communities into wider conversations about justice, dignity, and the role of women in Church and society.

At the United Nations, the Congregation of Jesus engages with issues that affect women and vulnerable communities across the world: gender equity and the elimination of gender-based violence, the eradication of poverty, access to quality education and healthcare, the elimination of trafficking in persons, care for the environment, and financing for development. These concerns reflect the same commitment to justice and human dignity that has shaped the Congregation since the time of Mary Ward.

In the article, Sr. Sarah reflects on the importance of synodality and listening deeply to the experiences of women across cultures and contexts. Her participation in the Commission on the Status of Women reflects the ongoing call within the Church to recognize the dignity, leadership, and contribution of women more fully. This reflection connects closely with the mission of the Congregation of Jesus and its commitment to justice and inclusion.

Mary Ward believed that women should be educated, trusted, and free to serve God and the world with courage and competence. That vision continues today in many forms—through education, spiritual accompaniment, advocacy, and participation in spaces like the Commission on the Status of Women.

We are grateful to St. Michael’s College for sharing this witness and helping others better understand the work of the Congregation of Jesus today. Their article offers an opportunity to reflect on how faith, leadership, and justice continue to shape the life of the Church and the wider world.

We warmly invite you to read the full InsightOut article and learn more about Sr. Sarah Rudolph’s experience representing the Congregation of Jesus at the United Nations.