A recent article by Luke Mandato , published in The Catholic Register  and titled “Mary Ward’s legacy lives on in Loretto schools,”  highlights how the bold and visionary spirit of Mary Ward continues to shape education in Canada today. The article features an interview with Sister Evanne Hunter, CJ , who reflects on how Mary Ward’s charism remains deeply embedded in the life and mission of Loretto schools. Mary Ward was a woman ahead of her time. In the seventeenth century, she believed strongly in the power of education rooted in faith, freedom and justice—especially for women. Her vision continues to guide Loretto schools, where education is understood not only as academic formation, but as the development of the whole person. As Sister Evanne Hunter explains, Mary Ward’s legacy is not simply remembered—it is lived. It is present in classrooms, in school culture and in the commitment to forming students who are compassionate, thoughtful and engaged with the world around them. Loretto schools seek to nurture young people who are prepared to lead with integrity and to respond courageously to social injustice. A key aspect of Mary Ward’s educational vision is the formation of conscience and interior freedom. This is reflected today in learning environments that encourage critical thinking, deep reflection and responsible action. In a world facing complex social and ethical challenges, this approach remains both timely and essential. The Catholic Register  article also emphasizes that Loretto schools are communities where faith is lived in an open and inclusive way, connected to contemporary realities. Inspired by Mary Ward, her schools on all continents continue to educate students to “do good, and do it well,” shaping individuals who are committed to service and the common good. For the Congregation of Jesus Canada , this reflection is a meaningful reminder that Mary Ward’s spirit continues to inspire new generations. Her legacy is not confined to history—it is alive, growing and responding to the signs of the times, through the life and mission of Loretto schools today. #MaryWardlegacy #LorettoSchools #CongregationofJesus #Canada #Catholiceducation #SisterEvanneHunter #faithandjustice #CongregationofJesusCanada

Traditionally, each of the four Advent candles has a deeper meaning, which is depicted in the Four Weeks of Advent Wreath:  The 1st Sunday of Advent symbolizes Hope   with the “Prophet's Candle” reminding us  that Jesus is coming.  Mission is not so much about ‘departing’  but instead ‘remaining’ in order to proclaim Christ through hospitality and welcome,  compassion and solidarity.  Consecrated life is a radical vocation  to witness God’s tender,  forgiving love.  Carmel Swords CJ  From the Mass of Merger   Let your armour be the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 13)    As the Congregation of Jesus,  how are we called to be prophet’s in our own time and place?   Stay awake (Matthew 24)  Listen to the song Instrument of Peace – how do I live my mission as God’s instrument in my daily life? How am I ‘Christ’ for others?  The Canadian Tenors – Instrument of Peace  https://youtu.be/sI0XwCLTPNU    Art by Mary Teresa Kane; music selection offered by Ursula Witkowska  #AdventCandles #FirstSundayofAdvent #Advent #Congregartiojesu

“That they may become completely one.” -Mary Ward  Rome, 4 November 2025. Following prayer, reflection and engagement of members, the two congregations of  apostolic women religious, the Congregatio Jesu (CJ) and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM Loreto) are merging today. The merged Congregatio Jesu, approximately 1,800 sisters worldwide, will continue  to honour the legacy and charism of its foundress Venerable Mary Ward.   The merger of the two congregations will become a canonical and legal reality at 12:00 PM CET (Rome time)  on 4 November 2025.   The merger decree will be publicly proclaimed at a special Mass in Loyola, Spain, which will be presided over  by the General Superior of the Jesuits, Fr. Arturo Sosa SJ.   “We are very happy that we can finally fulfill Mary Ward’s dream of a united congregation of women religious  with the same constitutions as those of the Society of Jesus”, states Sr Veronica Fuhrmann CJ, General Superior  of Congregatio Jesu. “Throughout history, but especially during the last years, we have journeyed in close  connection. We share the same charism, the same values and the same understanding of mission. Union of  minds and hearts, which Saint Ignatius has so aptly described and held in the highest esteem, is the bond that  deeply connects us. Seeing this union now realized not only in sisterly and spiritual but also in canonical and  legal terms fills us all with great joy and deep gratitude.”   “In a fractured world, our members have freely chosen to become one congregation as a witness to Christ’s  gospel message of peace and harmony. We have listened to the promptings of the Spirit and embark on this  journey with renewed missionary zeal”, says Sr Carmel Swords CJ, former Institute leader of the IBVM. “We  believe that together we are stronger. We move forward filled with gratitude and a desire to serve God’s people  in freedom and joy.”  “The mercies of the Lord I will sing forever.” -Teresa Ball #IBVM #Congregatiojesu #Congregationofjesus #becomingone #Maryward #teresaball #catholicfaith

Loretto Sisters were one of the sponsors for a June event held at St. Jerome's University, Waterloo. Journey of Encounter fosters the implementation of synodality in Canada in participants' own spiritual and/or faith communities. We asked two Associates (Gracie Nepomuceno and Anne Hanley) to attend. Through 'conversations in the Spirit' the synodal values of communion, participation and mission are deepened. Read more . Recently leadership met with Gracie and Anne to hear about the experience and their thoughts on how it might be shared with others.  Anne wrote: The many moving parts of the days came together to engender a true spirit of walking together as a Synodal Church during this Jubilee Year. … The theme of listening was emphasized … inclusive listening to creation, people, and sounds around and within us that we had perhaps not previously been able to be engaged with.” Gracie found it informative and enlivening and has developed three presentations: background and overview on the Synod; the Journey of Encounter event; and themes from Conversations in the Spirit. #BecomingOne #LorettoSisters #CatholicFaith #CongregatioofJesu #MaryWardLegacy #WaterlooUniversity

Sisters, Associates, Staff and Friends gathered at Presentation Manor on July 31st for the official vote of Merger with the Congregation of Jesus. In festive and solemn moments we:  Called on our foremothers, founders, history, the Spirit from north, south,         east and west  Recalled moments on the journey from 1821 – 2025, including founding (1847) and expansion in North America; keeping connections, shared events and mission, something new, steps to union   Prayed the Litany of Our Lady of Loreto  Voted: Jesus, with your love and grace, accept my choice as an offering to you of my vocation and all that I am . Enjoyed a barbecue together.  On August 8th the two Institute leaders submitted the request for Merger to the Dicastery in Rome, Italy. November 4th will mark the official day of merger. #BecomingOne #LorettoSisters #CatholicFaith #CongregatioofJesu #MaryWardLegacy # PresentationManor

Sr. Sarah has been appointed representative of the IBVM NGO  https://ibvmunngo.org   On this day 178 years ago, some of our sisters landed here to begin a new mission.  I ‘m sure when they left Ireland, they went with blessings, encouragement and much love.  We are giving that today to Sarah as she leaves for New York city and the United Nations, sent by the joint leadership of IBVM and CJ as we head into formal union in the ministry of God’s people and for God’s people around the world. We are sending her to important work in a time of great confusion in our world.   All types of beginnings need openness, conviction, courage, humility, love, determination, patient persistence and above all, trust in God and constant communication with God in prayer.    Sarah, we pray today that you have confidence in the gifts you have been given to do this work and we promise to pray for you and support you in all the ways we can. We believe that our Mary Ward charism rooted in the ‘Just Soul’ – Freedom, justice and Sincerity is needed at the United Nations and pray that you will stand tall in our charism so as to bring justice and dignity to all peoples in the world. We are grateful for your acceptance of this mission and proud to have you represent the Institute.   Let us pray for you and for the United Nations.  Please come forward . God of compassion, walk alongside Sarah and all of your global stewards who work to create a more just and peaceful world.   Equip the United Nations community with a sense of urgency and humility that lets your will be done.  R Jesus, say Amen Each day you give bread enough for all, grant us also the wisdom to ensure that everyone has enough.  R Teach the world’s leaders to forgive, to extend welcome across borders. R  Show the world a new path beyond greed, oppression and division. R  We pray for a world united.  R We pray for the power to save succeeding generations from war. R We pray for a glory that reaffirms the dignity and worth of every person. R We pray that your grace might ensure life in larger freedom forever, for all your children. R Extend hands in blessing Thank you for the work of the UN and for our Sister Sarah , whom you have called to serve in that system. Grant all who serve, wisdom and courage. Grant rest, instil a sense of calm.  When the way is difficult, give strength.  When the way is obscured, give guidance. Provide all that is needed for the living of these days and the faithful fulfillment of entrusted tasks. Jesus, say Amen.   I invite you now to come and offer Sarah your Sign of Peace Prepared by Mary Mallany IBVM

As winter turned into spring, the centre has become busier with silent 3-day retreats as well as a number of private retreats. A few highlights were: hosting the Loretto Associates for a weekend; sharing two-days with the full staff of the Loretto Ministries; and a fully booked new writing retreat: Journaling as Spiritual Practice. An Earth Day event was a great start to re-engaging the local community in the Centre. The April Ice storm created challenges with some significant tree damage which was effectively dealt with by our talented and dedicated grounds team. Volunteers joined us for a spring blessing of the Labyrinth and to joyfully help get it ready for the season. There is no limit to the opportunities for volunteers to assist the grounds staff. Please reach out to the centre if you might be interested in joining us! By Carol Ivens #SpiritualRetreat #FaithAndReflection #LorettoLife #VolunteerWithPurpose #JournalingAsPrayer #EarthDayAction #LabyrinthBlessing #CatholicCommunityCanada

A 30-minute segment aired on RTE Radio 1 Ireland. On Saturday August 29, 2025. Talking about (Frances) Teresa Ball and the supports she had; and overseas expansion of the Institute (1841-1851), including to Canada. Note: Frances Teresa Ball, an Irish woman, educated and receiving her religious formation as an IBVM in York England, establishes Mary Ward’s Institute in Dublin Ireland in 1821 and later sends Sisters to many other parts of the world.

Dear Sisters,  It is with joy and gratitude that we share the attached wonderful news that IBVM members have voted in favour of merger with the Congregatio Jesu. Our foundress, and the great cloud of witnesses are smiling down on all IBVM and CJ sisters today. This is truly a historic and grace-filled moment as our Mary Ward family, spread across the world, will soon become one. We stand on the threshold of seeing this dream take on a fuller expression of unity and communion.  For over 400 years, the vision and charism of Mary Ward, have inspired our service and sustained our life as apostolic religious women. Though separate, we have been united in spirit, sharing the same founding inspiration and missionary zeal. The desire to be one is a response to the Holy Spirit’s gentle call to deeper oneness, so that we may serve more fully and witness more joyfully in the Church and the world. Together, we will seek to fulfil God’s will for His greater glory.  The merger celebration will be an important step toward full union as one body. We invite all of you to join us in thanksgiving and prayer as we enter this significant new chapter. We believe that our unity will be a sign of hope, joy, and courage to all we encounter.  Mary Ward, pray for us and give us your spirit.

Sr Sarah Rudolph, Audrey Ferrer, and Coco. In addition to working on a renewal of their Strategic Plan, The Mary Ward Centre has been busy. The broadcast, Storytime with Sr. Sarah: Fun with Birds, was a big hit during Earth Week, with over 1200 registered viewers. To launch the 10th Anniversary of Laudato Si' Week, they hosted the retreat, Indigenous Wisdom on Care for Creation and the Wisdom Carriers exhibit featuring paintings of Métis Algonquin artist, Diane Montreuil. Métis Algonquin artist, Diane Montreuil MWC coop students are finalizing their projects: animating the story of the Irish Loretto Sisters arrival to Toronto; a digital escape room to learn about the Jubilee year; a Faith4SDGs quilt; social media outreach; illustrations for a youth education booklet against human trafficking; as well as a "Green Saints" children’s book. MWC hosted 'Sisters in Fiction' an event featuring author Jodi Michalachki, who shared excerpts of her novel-in-progress about missionary sisters in Burundi. The May First Spiritual Exercises Ignatian retreat wrapped up on May 26. There were 8 participants. During the Week of Victims and Survivors of Crime,  Mary Ward Centre  collaborated with FCJ Refugee Center , and ARISE Ministry  | Hope Lives   Here  to host a 2-day awareness event. Pieces of the Puzzle - Understanding Exploitation on a Spectrum : a workshop focused on understanding labour exploitation of temporary foreign workers (TFW) in Canada. The Migrant Workers Exercise, a role-play activity, opened the session. Participants had the opportunity to experience the situations TFW experienced from the recruiting stage to their job stage in many Canadian farms. The afternoon activity was a lived-experience panel listening to migrant workers talk about their own experiences and the deception encountered in different industries.  Pathways to safety - Sex trafficking and the toxic drugs crisis : This workshop focused on analyzing the pathways of sex trafficking and the toxic drug crisis with people working on prevention of human trafficking and drug abuse. Testimonials from survivors and workers supporting victims and survivors served as the basis for the group’s work and analysis. - By Audrey Ferrer

At the end of April, the staff of the Loretto Ministries gathered at Loretto Maryholme for a 2-day event: to become more immersed in the charism of Mary Ward and how this inspires us and resonates through our work; to follow the journey of Becoming One; and to connect as ‘one staff’ under the Mary Ward banner.  We were blessed to have Sr Brenda Eagan from Chicago facilitate the event. Here are a few quotes from attendees. I left feeling a powerful sense of ownership, belonging and gratitude in the group. (be) The Loretto Ministry event was especially meaningful to me because it gave me a chance to truly connect with others as a Loretto family. The heartfelt talk on the art of listening really stayed with me—it reminded me how powerful it is to be present for one another, especially when working together as a team. (jd) I still reflect on our get together with a smile to this day. So great to meet the Toronto team and spend some time getting to know one another. I feel incredibly blessed to be a small part of this organization. Finding out more about Mary Ward was a huge inspiration. I am humbled by all that she was able to accomplish. (sv)

The global displacement crisis deeply concerns us. Did you know over 120 million people worldwide are forcibly displaced from their homes? A staggering 60% remain within their own countries, while over 43.7 million are refugees seeking safety elsewhere. Let us reflect on the profound need for justice for all refugees and internally displaced persons. Their plight calls for our prayer, advocacy, and action. #WorldRefugeeDay   #WithRefugees   #RefugeeRights   #HumanDignity   #SolidarityWithRefugees   #JusticeForMigrants