“Women in time to come will do much.” – Mary Ward

In 2025, the global Mary Ward family celebrates a truly historic milestone — the coming together of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), known to many as the Loreto Sisters, and the Congregation of Jesus (CJ). After more than four centuries of walking parallel paths, these two congregations, founded in the spirit of Mary Ward, are reuniting as one.

Mary Ward founded her Institute in 1609 in Saint-Omer, France, with the belief that women could serve God through active ministry, especially in education and faith formation. Over the years, her followers formed separate branches due to historical and geographical reasons — the Loreto Sisters, founded by Mother Teresa Ball in Ireland in 1821, and the Congregation of Jesus, which grew in Rome. Though distinct, both remained faithful to Mary Ward’s vision of service, justice, and love.

The decision to unite stems from a shared desire to bring Mary Ward’s original dream to fulfilment — to become one Institute, companions of Jesus, working together for God’s greater glory. Following years of discernment and prayer, both congregations voted in 2022 to merge officially. On 4 November 2025, the merger will be complete, and all IBVM sisters will become members of the Congregation of Jesus. While the name IBVM will cease to exist officially, the spirit and mission of the Loreto Sisters will continue to shine. Loreto schools and ministries around the world will retain their names, traditions, and commitment to empowering young minds and hearts.

This union signifies much more than administrative change — it is a spiritual homecoming. It marks the fulfilment of Mary Ward’s vision: one family, one mission, one faith-filled journey of love and service.

As the Loreto and CJ Sisters unite, their shared legacy continues to inspire thousands of students, educators, and well-wishers worldwide to live out the values of freedom, sincerity, and justice — the hallmarks of a true Mary Ward education.