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.

The Congregation of Jesus (CJ), a UN-registered NGO, is the CJ's global mission for justice and policy advocacy, bringing the voice of faith-based civil society to multilateral decision-making processes and serving as a key coordinating mechanism that connects the CJ's grassroots initiatives with global policy advocacy. It facilitates collaboration between regions, amplifies local voices, and ensures that collective actions effectively contribute to international efforts to eradicate human trafficking in all its forms. As part of this action and commitment, the Congregation of Jesus* produced a 2025 Position Paper on Migration, Labour Exploitation, and Human Trafficking, led by sisters and team professionals in Albania, Hungary, Slovakia, Kenya, West Bengal (India), Spain, and Canada, bringing together the network's experiences and corresponding recommendations in the following areas: 1) Technology and human trafficking; 2) Human trafficking routes; 3) Vulnerability of women and children; 4) Labour exploitation; 5) Access to justice and human rights; and 6) Human trafficking and climate change. Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Loreto Generalate NGO Office Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Loreto Generalate NGO Office Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Loreto Generalate NGO Office #HumanTrafficking #Migration #LabourExploitation #EndTrafficking #HumanRights #PolicyAdvocacy #FaithInAction #NGO #UnitedNations #SocialJustice #GlobalJustice #Canada #CanadaNGO #HumanRightsCanada #CanadianAdvocacy #CanadaJustice #StopHumanTrafficking #ProtectMigrants #RightsOfWomenAndChildren #ClimateAndTrafficking #AccessToJustice#Solidaridad #DerechosDeLaInfancia #JusticiaClimática

On July 8, 2026, the Congregation of Jesus participated in an Official Side Event during the 2026 United Nations High-level Political Forum (HLPF), organized by the IBVM/CJ NGO at the United Nations in collaboration with the Mary Ward Centre. Young leaders from Australia, the Philippines, India, Spain, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe shared how SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11, and 17 shape the lives of people in their communities. Accompanying young people has always been central to the mission of the Congregation of Jesus. Inspired by Mary Ward, our ministries seek not only to educate but also to help young people find their voice, grow in confidence, and contribute to the future of their communities. The discussion focused on issues that affect everyday life. Access to clean water and sanitation is essential for health and human dignity. Affordable and clean energy helps build resilient communities while caring for creation. Innovation and resilient infrastructure create opportunities for education, employment, and economic participation. Sustainable cities and communities encourage places where everyone can belong, while partnerships remind us that none of these goals can be achieved alone. What made the conversation especially meaningful was hearing these priorities through the eyes of young people. Rather than speaking only about global challenges, they shared stories from their own communities, practical recommendations, and a hopeful vision for the future. The programme also featured a moving spoken word performance by Jaden (Zimbabwe), reminding us that stories can inspire action just as powerfully as statistics. We are grateful to our co-sponsors and partners—the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Loreto Generalate, Maryknoll Sisters, The Grail, the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, the Dominican Leadership Conference, the Justice Coalition of Religious, the JPIC Office (Spain), and the Mary Ward Centre (Toronto)—for making this event possible. Together, we continue Mary Ward's tradition of listening, accompanying young people, and creating opportunities for them to lead with faith, courage, and hope. Watch the recording of the Official Side Event and discover how young leaders are contributing to the future of sustainable development. #CongregationOfJesus #MaryWard #UnitedNations #HLPF2026 #YouthLeadership #FaithInAction #CatholicSocialTeaching #SustainableDevelopmentGoals #GlobalJustice #YoungPeople #Partnerships #EducationForJustice

We invite our community to listen to a heartfelt episode of the Voices of Faith podcast, produced by the Catholic Centre for Advanced Training (CCAT). In this conversation, Sister Sarah Rudolph explores how her prayer life is anchored in the Ignatian tradition of being a "contemplative in action," which allows her to "find God in all things" even amidst the noise of modern life. For Sister Sarah, this spiritual groundedness was essential during the recent historic transition of our institute. She shares that witnessing our branches unite as the Congregation of Jesus felt like the ultimate realization of a 400-year-old vision. Reflecting on this milestone, she captures the spirit of that outcome: "It really feels like Our Founder's dream come true... we are one in hearts and minds". Listen to the Full Episode Ready to find your "magis" and embrace stillness in a busy world? Click below to listen to the full conversation on Voices of Faith and join Sister Sarah Rudolph as she shares practical insights for making space for prayer in our daily lives #CongregationOfJesus #IgnatianSpirituality #OurFounder #MaryWard #BecomingOne #SistersToday #ContemplativesInAction #VoicesOfFaith #FindGodInAllThings #PrayerLife #Magis #SpiritualQuietude #FreedomJusticeSincerityFelicity #CCATPodcast

Our Loretto ministries are doing important work in our communities: offering a place and time for spiritual renewal and development; offering healing access to the land; advocating for the rights of migrants, refugees and trafficked persons; advocating for justice, peace and the integrity of creation; advocating for progress with Sustainable Development Goals; offering educational opportunities to students, teachers and young adults on issues of Justice…. and more. We are thankful to be receiving queries regarding opportunities to support these works. If you have an interest and availability to offer your time or expertise through volunteering for any of our ministry activities, please reach out to us. We would love to hear from you and see if we can match your interest with our needs! We have also set up an online process for making financial donations by adding a Donate button to each of the ministry websites, as well as to the Loretto Sisters’ main site: congretationofjesus.ca. Your monthly, ongoing donations or one-time donations are a blessing and offer encouragement for the future of these works. Canada Helps will provide donation receipts, and the donor can direct their gift to either Loretto Ministries – General / Loretto – Mary Ward Centre or Loretto Maryholme Spirituality Centre. With thanks for your interest and support, Dolores Kwapien Executive Director, Loretto Ministries

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. Explore the full article Read the full InsightOut article #CongregationOfJesus #MaryWard #FaithAndJustice #WomenInTheChurch #CatholicLeadership #UNCSW #DignityOfWomen #FaithInAction

Icicles, Edgar Porch. February sunset over frozen Cooks Bay What a magical Winter Wonderland we enjoyed  in this deep winter season! Storms and vast heaps of snow did not deter our brave guests from travelling to receive rest, serenity, and yummy food over several events. Our Advent Retreat once again attracted women of various faiths. See their comments below. Over 30 people encircled the Winter Solstice fire and traipsed through the deep snow to contemplate the Creator’s handiwork at sunset; after a warming soup supper, we rounded out the evening reciting poetry ‘round the fireplace’ . An 8-Day Silent Retreat occurred right off the hop in January; our half-price incentive for first-timers to a silent retreat garnered some new registrations. Their gratitude abounded… Serene silent retreat afternoon "It was wonderful to be fed spiritually and physically - I am grateful."  "I came for rest and this sacred place allowed my weary soul to receive it. Thank you, thank you! Shout-outs to Yvonne – you opened my eyes and heart to another perspective on Mary. Thank you for that. And of course, the food, books, poetry, and thoughts shared leave my heart cozy and warm."  "I loved how the themes of winter and Advent were woven together seamlessly, and so beautifully.  The Visio Divina was a beautiful way to begin. The reflection questions and poems supported my own spiritual journey, giving it focus and direction. Maryholme in winter is as beautiful as it is in the other three seasons." Our 4-day Women’s Winter Weekend Retreat became an annual highlight. Retreatants were additionally blessed by a new special feature: a Sound Journey by local healer and artist Nadine Crescenzi. What a gift it was to sink into a sound bath for deep relaxation and restoration of the soul in the ambience of Edgar House in wintertime. Truly, it was remarkable to see the peace and joy it instilled in everyone. We definitely had Nadine back for more. “Silence was more comfortable than I thought it would be. The retreat showed me that silence, peace, and beauty are always available.” “This is where I come to spend deep time with God… My connection to God is stronger because of LMH – it has made a mountain of difference in my spiritual life.” The winterization and upgrade of McMahon Cabin received its final touches. We welcomed year-round bookings and were so grateful. The cabin was as bright and cozy as ever. It was hard to rate which was the best of the fine new features: lovely vaulted ceiling that gave a sense of spaciousness and more light; newly combined washroom/shower room; kitchenette moved to allow for a sliding glass door that also brought more light… and view. Watch for photos in our next installment. Keswick, Ontario We honoured Loretto Maryholme’s 25th anniversary in several ways over the year. Most notable was a grand celebration on June 6. We were thrilled that Diana Beresford-Kroeger warmly accepted our invitation to be the keynote speaker. She also selected the anniversary tree we would plant. A fine chef was already planning the lunch menu. There were children’s activities; an auction; and we bookended the day with prayer—an opening blessing ceremony, and closing with a Tai Chi session. We looked forward to hosting many of you on June 6. The office in Toronto coordinated car pools and tickets for the GTA Sisters. Ticket sales were available online at www.lorettomaryholme.ca . #MaryWardSpirituality #CatholicCanada #FaithInAction #SpiritualRetreats #WinterRetreat #SilentRetreat #InterfaithDialogue #IgnatianSpirituality #DiscernmentJourney #SacredSpaces #CommunityInFaith #SpiritualGrowth #CreationSpirituality #WinterWonderland #FaithAndNature #PeaceAndReflection #CatholicWomen #VocationJourney #LorettoMaryholme #CJCanada #EncounterGod

Greetings from New York! The winter has been long and cold, albeit with a couple of fantastic weekend snowstorms to bring some excitement. January’s snowstorm saw students moving to online learning and others working from home. In February, students got a proper snow day off from their studies. For both snowstorms, Central Park was filled with families and kids sledding down hills, throwing snowballs, building snowmen, and letting their dogs frolic in the freshness. At the UN, we have been occupied with the beginning of the busy UN commission season. The Commission on Social Development was held at the end of January.  Although I was not there to attend it (I was in Rome at the Development Network Meeting), I helped prepare sessions for the Civil Society Forum, and our NGO’s oral statement on the importance of educating girls was read by a youth representative from Red Dot Foundation. There has been a flurry of activity surrounding March’s Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70). Through the NGO Working Group on Girls, I have assisted girl delegates draft written statements, and prepare for mission visits and a side event on girls’ access to justice. The months of hard work paid off in spades this week as our many activities went off without a hitch.  I welcomed General Leadership Team members, Anna Quinterio CJ and Mary Kamotho CJ, as well as Leonida Kwamboka CJ from Kenya and Mary Campbell (Women for Women in Africa) from Australia for the first week of CSW70. Next week. Jackline Mwongela CJ from Kenya joins us for a side event on human trafficking. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with the Holy See Mission to discuss collaboration among Catholic NGOs, and I’ve taken girls to the Mission of Ireland for advocacy. Next week, with Jackline we will visit the Kenyan Mission and host a side event on the prevention of human trafficking. I have been settling into the neighbourhood more and more and am an active member of St. Ignatius Loyola parish, the local Jesuit parish. I am a member of the Social Justice and Laudato Si ministries. I’ve participated in migrant justice initiatives including letter writing and whistle-kit making, and at the end of February, I participated in Don’t Walk By, a day-long outreach to those living on the streets.  Life is full. I am enjoying my time in New York and at the UN, with many friends and many opportunities to enjoy the city and to offer service to those in the local community.  Sarah Rudolph CJ #CSW70 #UNCSW #CSW2026 #UNWomen #GlobalAdvocacy #CongregationOfJesus #CatholicNGOs #FaithInAction #CatholicSocialTeaching #WomenReligious #WomenForJustice #EmpowerGirls #WomenOfFaith #SocialJustice #HumanRights #FaithLeadership

On January 7, 2026 , students, educators, faith leaders, and partners from across the Toronto Catholic District School Board gathered at Loretto College  to celebrate the enduring legacy of Venerable Mary Ward — foundress of the Congregation of Jesus (CJ). Rooted deeply in the Gospel, Mary Ward’s vision for education, justice, freedom, and faithful courage continues to animate the mission and ministries of the Congregation today, inspiring new generations to live for the greater glory of God. Moments from Celebrating Mary Ward’s Legacy 2026 at Loretto College This year’s celebration brought together the Angel Foundation for Learning (AFL) , TCDSB senior leadership , members of the Congregation of Jesus (CJ) , and student leaders from Loretto Abbey , Loretto College , Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School , and St. Mother Teresa Catholic Academy . Grounded in prayer and shared faith, the day was designed not only to remember Mary Ward’s life, but to invite young people to reflect on how her charism—rooted in trust in God, courage in adversity, and love of neighbour—continues to shape vocation, leadership, and service in today’s world. A Day Rooted in Encounter The gathering opened with prayer, a land acknowledgement, and words of welcome led by student leaders—setting a tone of reverence, shared leadership, and mutual respect. From the outset, the celebration reflected a deeply Catholic understanding of community: listening together for where God is leading. Participants were warmly welcomed by John Wujek , Executive Director of the Angel Foundation for Learning, who highlighted the importance of nurturing student voice and advocacy within Catholic education. George Danfulani, Superintendent of Nurturing Our Catholic Community, emphasized the TCDSB's pastoral plan "Growing in knowledge with justice" as a focus for the day's learning to put our faith into action. The heart of the morning was a compelling keynote by Sr. Evanne Hunter, IBVM/CJ , who presented Mary Ward as a “dangerous innovator” —a woman far ahead of her time and radically faithful to God’s call. Through story, Scripture, and historical context, Sr. Evanne traced Mary Ward’s courageous journey in 17th-century England, her commitment to the education of women as an expression of Gospel justice, and her unwavering trust in God’s providence, even in the face of persecution, misunderstanding, and institutional rejection. Her reflection invited students to consider a deeper question: What is life asking of me? —echoing Mary Ward’s own attentiveness to God’s dream. Students were encouraged to discern how their God-given gifts might meet the world’s deepest needs, and how faith, when lived with integrity and courage, can become a transformative force for justice and hope. Learning Through Dialogue and Experience Following the plenary, students took part in rotating breakout sessions  that connected Mary Ward’s legacy with contemporary issues: Becoming Neighbours  – exploring hospitality and solidarity with newcomers Prevention of Human Trafficking  – raising awareness and responsibility Care for Creation  – reflective meditation linking faith and ecology Women in Leadership  – celebrating voices, courage, and agency Each session was co-facilitated by students and adult leaders, reinforcing a key Mary Ward value: shared mission . Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching and Ignatian spirituality, these conversations created space for listening, discernment, and practical action inspired by faith. Community, Gratitude, and Eucharist A shared lunch—generously sponsored by Cataldi Fresh Market —offered time for connection and informal conversation, further strengthening relationships across schools and communities. The day concluded with the celebration of Mass . Presided by Fr. Peter Choi , with the presence of fr. Prakash Lohal, OP , the Eucharist gathered the community in gratitude and prayer. Through music, readings, and prayers led by students, the liturgy bore witness to a living, youthful Church shaped by Mary Ward’s spirit of courage, joy, and faithful service. Mary Ward’s Legacy, Alive Today — A Living Charism More than a commemoration, Celebrating Mary Ward’s Legacy 2026  was a moment of shared discernment and renewal—an invitation to courage, to justice, and to joyful freedom in Christ. As students left Loretto College that afternoon, they carried forward a legacy that began centuries ago but remains profoundly relevant today: educating minds, forming consciences, and empowering young people to become agents of change in their communities and in the world. We are grateful to all partners, educators, chaplains, members of the Congregation of Jesus, and students who made this celebration vibrant, meaningful, and hope-filled, and who continue to carry forward Mary Ward’s charism in Canada and around the world. #MaryWardLegacy   #MaryWardCentre   #CongregatioJesu   #CongregationOfJesusCanada   #MaryWard   #Tcdsb   #CatholicSchools   #LoretoCollege   #WomenInLeadership   #TorontoCatholic

As we journey toward "Becoming One" —the historic merger of the Congregatio Jesu (CJ) and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM)—we invite you to watch this moving tribute to our foundress, Mary Ward (1585–1645) . Born into a time of intense Catholic persecution in England, Mary was a "pioneering, courageous, prophetic figure" who envisioned a new way of religious life for women. Her mission was defined by a call to "take the same of the Society,"  adopting the Ignatian model of contemplation in action  without the constraints of enclosure or a religious habit. Despite facing suppression and imprisonment, Mary’s conviction that "women in time to come will do much"  never wavered. Today, her legacy flourishes through over 2,000 sisters ministering in 42 countries. Join us in prayer for her beatification:  The cause for Mary Ward to be recognized as a saint is active, and many believe the survival of her vision for over 400 years is a miracle in itself. "Cherish God’s vocation in you, let it be constant, efficacious and loving." — Mary Ward