Human trafficking crosses borders. Prevention must be able to do the same. Across countries and communities, unsafe migration, deceptive recruitment, labour exploitation and misinformation can leave people vulnerable long before trafficking becomes visible. These same realities are reflected in the Congregation of Jesus’ 2025 Position Paper on Migration, Labour Exploitation, and Human Trafficking, which brings together experiences from different regions and calls for stronger collaboration between local action and global advocacy. That spirit of working together was at the heart of Cross-Border Strategies to Prevent Human Trafficking, an ancillary event of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. The gathering brought together people working in Canada, Mexico, India, Indonesia and international anti-trafficking networks, offering different perspectives on one shared question: how can we reach people earlier and strengthen prevention across borders? Imelda Poole, CJ, President of the Mary Ward Loreto Foundation in Albania, helped guide a conversation grounded in experience from communities around the world. Cynthia Moreno, Protection Consul of the Consulate of Mexico in Toronto, highlighted the challenges migrant workers can face when recruitment and exploitation move between countries. Her contribution pointed to the importance of cooperation between consulates, authorities and community organizations when the risks themselves are transnational. From India, Nabanita Shome, Associate Director of Kolkata Mary Ward Social Center, shared how prevention can begin within communities. Working with young people, families, government networks and law enforcement, her team helps identify risks early and strengthen local systems of protection. Here in Canada, Eva Rodriguez-Diaz, Program Manager, Migration, Labour Exploitation and Human Trafficking at the Mary Ward Centre, spoke about misinformation and fraudulent recruitment. Through education, outreach and trusted communication, the Centre works to help migrant and temporary foreign workers understand their rights and recognize potential risks before exploitation occurs. Fransiska Imakulata SSpS, Director of Tim Relawan Untuk Kemanusiaan Flores (TRUK F) in Indonesia, reminded participants that protection continues beyond rescue. Legal and psychosocial support, accompaniment and community networks all play a role in helping people rebuild their lives with dignity. Bringing a wider international perspective, Abby Avelino, M.M., International Coordinator of Talitha Kum, emphasized the value of strong networks across countries and the importance of listening to young people and survivors when shaping prevention strategies. Although the contexts were different, a common message ran through the conversation: preventing human trafficking depends on relationships, trusted information and people working together. A consulate can help someone navigate an unsafe situation. A young person can recognize a warning sign. A community organization can share reliable information. A local ministry can accompany someone at risk. An international network can connect those experiences and bring them into wider conversations. This is also part of the approach reflected in CJ’s global work on migration, labour exploitation and human trafficking: local experience informing wider advocacy, while international collaboration strengthens the work happening in communities. No single organization or country can address human trafficking alone. But when people share knowledge, listen to one another and connect their efforts across borders, there are more opportunities to act earlier and protect human dignity. Event Partners: Loreto Generalate NGO to the United Nations, VIVAT International, Mary Ward Centre Toronto, Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre Human trafficking crosses borders. So can solidarity, knowledge and action. #CongregationOfJesus #MaryWard #HumanTrafficking #EndHumanTrafficking #LabourExploitation #Migration #HumanRights #SocialJustice #FaithInAction #JusticeAndPeace #GlobalJustice #CrossBorderCollaboration #Prevention #Advocacy #UnitedNations #TalithaKum #MaryWardCentre #DignityForAll #SafeMigration #WorkingTogether Developed by Congregation of Jesus Canada with AI-assisted editorial support.

Sarah Redikopp, Mission, Charism, and Vocations Animator, Loretto Ministries Today, we celebrate 179 years of the Loretto Sisters in Canada! On Landing Day, we remember the histories of the Canadian CJ province and reconnect with the mission that animates our community. This year brings extra celebration, as the first Landing Day since the unification of the two branches of Mary Ward’s Institute (the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Congregation of Jesus) in November 2025. On September 16, 1847, the first five Loretto Sisters landed in Toronto at Cooper’s Wharf. These young women were missioned from Ireland to North America to establish schools for growing numbers of Irish immigrant children whose families sought refuge and new life in the wake of the potato famine. After a weeks-long transatlantic journey, Sisters Teresa Dease, Gertrude Fleming, Ignatia Hutchinson, Valentina Hutchinson, and Bonaventure Phelan arrived in Toronto with no one to meet them at the shore, no ready lodgings, and profound challenges ahead of them – including a wave of cholera and seasonal extremes that resulted in bodily injury, illness, and death. Amazingly, these women persevered, and Mother Teresa Dease went on to become the recognized Foundress of the Loretto Canadian province. As CJ Sisters and Associates, we exist in relation to these women, and Teresa Ball and Mary Ward before them. As I learn about the histories of the Canadian province and the women who offered their gifts in its service, I find myself in awe of their endurance and commitment. I imagine these women bearing struggles together, tending to one another, finding joy together, and encouraging one another. In many ways, it is through their relationships that the North American mission of Mary Ward’s charism lives on. Mary Ward’s Institute began as a small circle of friends and companions who fortified one another in the face of denial and persecution. Their mutuality enabled them to respond to God’s deep dream for them, and for us: to exist as an order of engaged and apostolic women, open and available to meet the needs of our time, and free to refer all to God. Though it looks different than in 1847, or in 1609, we too are friends and companions in mission, called to bring God’s reign of love and justice to wherever and whomever the Spirit calls us. Happy Landing Day! #LandingDay #LorettoSisters #MaryWard #LorettoCanada #CongregationOfJesus #WomenInHistory #TorontoHistory #FaithInAction #WomenReligious #CatholicHistory #FaithAndJustice #WomenOfCourage #CompanionsInMission #IBVM #CatholicMission

"Be seekers of truth and doers of justice." – Mary Ward About the Role Do you believe young people can help transform the world? The Congregation of Jesus (CJ) | Loretto Sisters have been promoting education, spirituality and justice in Canada since 1847. They are civilly incorporated under the name “The Loretto Ladies’ Colleges and Schools” (Loretto), a registered non-profit charitable organization. One of Loretto’s ministries, The Mary Ward Centre, is seeking an energetic, creative, and faith-inspired Youth Engagement Animator for Social Justice Advocacy (Youth Animator) to accompany and empower youth and young adults (ages 15-35) as leaders for justice, peace, human dignity, and the integrity of creation. Rooted in the Gospel, Catholic Social Teaching, the Mary Ward charism, and Ignatian spirituality, this role engages young people in leadership formation, advocacy, and meaningful action on today's most pressing social, economic, and ecological challenges. Through mentorship, education, community engagement, and youth-led initiatives, the successful candidate will help young people develop the skills, confidence, and opportunities to become effective advocates for change. Key Responsibilities The Youth Animator will: Design and facilitate spiritually grounded leadership formation and social justice education programs for youth. Mentor and support emerging young leaders, advocates, and organizers. Develop and coordinate youth-led advocacy initiatives focused on human rights, ecological justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, sustainable development, and anti-human trafficking efforts. Create opportunities for young people to engage with public policy and decision-makers at local, national, and international levels. Prepare and support youth delegates participating in advocacy initiatives, including opportunities connected to the United Nations. Build relationships with schools, youth-serving organizations, faith communities, and justice-focused networks. Develop engaging communications and storytelling initiatives that amplify youth voices and inspire action. Collaborate with The Mary Ward Centre, Loretto Maryholme, the CJ Canada network, the IBVM/CJ UN Office (New York) CJ justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) networks, Roman Catholic Religious congregations, ecumenical and interfaith organizations, and other like-minded community organizations to strengthen youth participation in social justice advocacy. Qualifications The ideal candidate will have: A demonstrated commitment to youth leadership, social justice, and community engagement. Knowledge of Catholic Social Teaching, the Mary Ward charism, Ignatian spirituality, or a willingness to learn. Experience working with youth in educational, faith-based, advocacy, or community settings. Experience in advocacy, community organizing, leadership development, public policy, or social justice initiatives. Strong facilitation, relationship-building, mentoring, communication, and project management skills. The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse partners and stakeholders. Strong research, writing, and presentation skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, social media platforms, and digital communication tools. Working Conditions Location: Mary Ward Centre at Loretto College (70 St Mary St, Toronto ON M5S 1J3), with the possibility for some hybrid work Hours: 37.5 hours/week, including evening and weekend work Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000 plus benefits Start Date: Monday, November 2nd, 2026 Reporting Relationship The Youth Animator reports to the Director of the Mary Ward Centre and works collaboratively with Mary Ward Centre staff, CJ ministries, and justice-focused partner organizations. Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to help shape a growing community of young leaders committed to justice, peace, and social transformation. You will work alongside passionate partners in Canada and internationally, including the IBVM/CJ United Nations Office, while supporting youth in finding their voice and making a meaningful impact in their communities and the world. Primary Outcome A growing and diverse community of youth and young adults who are formed, connected, and actively engaged in advocacy for justice, peace, human dignity, gender equality, and care for creation at local, national, and global levels. A criminal background check will be required of the successful applicant. Application Deadline: Monday, October 5, 2026 Submit your letter of intent, resume and references to Dolores Kwapien at dkwapien@congregationofjesus.ca We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. Only selected applicants will be contacted for an interview. If you are passionate about empowering young people, advancing social justice, and working within a faith-based environment committed to systemic change, we encourage you to apply.

Offers information on becoming an IBVM|Loretto Sister including the stages of formation and a link to FAQs you may have about the process. Becoming a CJ Are you searching for a way to make a difference? We invite you to explore the possibility of a consecrated life: grounded in God graced by the gospel of Jesus guided by the Spirit engaged in the world Congregation of Jesus is a community of Catholic women dedicated to serving God by responding to the greatest needs of God’s people. Learn More FAQ Stages of Formation Talk to Us The Inquiry Stage The Inquiry Stage is the first stage in learning about religious life, and is for women 18 years of age and older who wish to know more about the Loretto Sisters before coming to a vocation decision. During the Inquiry stage there is continuous conversation between women who have expressed interest in our way of life and the Loretto Sisters. What We Do Acquaint you with our community by phone, email, visits Maintain regular contact to help you with your discernment Provide prayer support by matching you with a sister who will pray for you Recommend some reading (books and articles) that will help you to know more about religious life and the Loretto Sisters What You Do Stay in communication with us Make the effort to meet with the vocation director and to visit one or more of our communities Continue to read and seek out information to help you make a decision Pray to know how God is at work in your life “Women should and can provide something more than ordinary in the face of the common need.” Mary Ward Expectations of an Inquirer What is Discernment? It is the ongoing search, above all, for the ways God is working in our lives. Prayer is most important in this search. The grace of vocation flows from our Christian baptismal commitment; a woman discerning a call to religious life is attentive through prayer and reflection to the ways Christ calls her to follow him as she considers becoming a sister. Women looking to be enquirers should: be at least 18 years of age have at least a high school diploma and at least two years of post-secondary education or two years of work experience be free of major financial debts and have sufficient funds to cover living expenses for the 12-month candidacy period be a practising Catholic for at least two years if widowed or divorced, some time must have elapsed since the annulment of her marriage or death of her spouse Stages of Formation “Called by God to a Life of Prayer and Service” 1. Candidacy stage The aim of this period (about one year) is to continue the process of getting to know the community, and providing an opportunity for the Sisters to know you. The community provides opportunities to help the candidate: understand your own personal faith journey deepen your relationship with Jesus use scripture for prayer become familiar with ‘awareness examen’ understand the importance of discernment in daily life reflect on your call to religious life participate in a variety of ministry experiences become aware of the multicultural aspect of the IBVM During this time the Loretto Sisters have the opportunity to assess the personal growth and faith development of the candidate and to reflect on her suitability for religious life and in particular for membership in our community. The candidate usually continues her work wherever she is employed. A psychological assessment is part of the application process to enter the novitiate stage. Mary Ward’s Journey Do you want to talk to someone who can guide you? Write to us First name* Last name* Email* Phone Long answer Submit Sarah Redikopp - Mission, Charism, Vocations Animator sredikopp@congregationofjesus.ca

Loretto Sisters' commitment to education with links to Loretto College Residence, Loretto Schools and the important work of our Education Liason. Education From the earliest years of the Congregation of Jesus, our founder, Mary Ward and her companions engaged in the works of education, particularly the education of women. The five Loretto Sisters who first came to Toronto from Ireland in 1847 opened the first Loretto School in North America with nine initial boarding students. The traditional “free school” for the children of St Paul’s Parish followed soon after. The Loretto Sisters became known for excellence in education and went on to establish private schools in various areas of Ontario. Schools were established in Toronto, Guelph, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Lindsay and in Sedley, Saskatchewan. After the Separate School Act in 1863 Loretto Sisters went out daily to teach in a variety of urban and rural Separate Schools throughout Ontario and Saskatchewan. Today our ministry of education continues to evolve in response to the needs of the times. Loretto Sisters continue to be educators in very diverse settings including: Education for justice, peace and the integrity of creation Educating for personal growth and leadership through workshops and presentations in various community and parish settings Serving the Catholic Community as Diocesan Directors of Religious Education Teaching in university and seminary settings Educating for Christian formation through RCIA and scripture study Teaching English as a second language to refugees and immigrants Ministries Loretto College - U of T Education Liaison Loretto Schools Mary Ward Centre - Education Latest Updates Cross-Border Strategies to Prevent Human Trafficking That spirit of working together was at the heart of Cross-Border Strategies to Prevent Human Trafficking, an ancillary event of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. The gathering brought together people working in Canada, Mexico, India, Indonesia and international anti-trafficking networks, offering different perspectives on one shared question: how can we reach people earlier and strengthen prevention across borders? Landing Day 2026: Friends and Companions in Mission Sarah Redikopp, Mission, Charism, and Vocations Animator, Loretto Ministries Today, we celebrate 179 years of the Loretto Sisters in Canada! On Landing Day, we remember the histories of the Canadian CJ province and reconnect with the mission that animates our community. This year brings extra celebration, as the first Landing Day since the unification of the two branches of Mary Ward’s Institute (the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Congregation of Jesus) in Nove Join Our Mission: Youth Engagement Animator for Social Justice Advocacy The Mary Ward Centre, is seeking an energetic, creative, and faith-inspired Youth Engagement Animator for Social Justice Advocacy (Youth Animator) to accompany and empower youth and young adults (ages 15-35) as leaders for justice, peace, human dignity, and the integrity of creation. 1 2 3 4 5

Gives links to Loretto Abbey and Loretto College School. Loretto Schools Loretto Abbey Loretto College School Mary Ward Secondary School