The Bar Convent in York will mark Mary Ward Week (January 23-30) with a series of activities to raise awareness of this extraordinary Yorkshire woman who paved the way for ground-breaking local, national and international change.
Mary Ward (January 23 1585-January 30 1645) is the foundress of the religious order in residence at the Bar Convent, now known as the Congregation of Jesus.
Each year, to mark the anniversaries of her birth and her death, her life and works are celebrated worldwide. But why is this?

Dr Hannah Thomas, special collections manager, said: “It was Mary Ward’s vision and determination that pioneered the idea of religious sisters working as missionaries – and her mission was to educate girls. Both were unheard of at the time and Catholicism was illegal in this country.
“She challenged the status quo, stating that given equal opportunities for education, there would be no difference in what women and men could achieve.
“It is thanks to Mary that her followers established the first ever school for girls in the country in Hammersmith, London, in 1669 and the second here at the Bar Convent.
“Today, there are more than 200 Mary Ward schools around the world and the Bar Convent is of the highest significance to the global order of religious sisters. Mary is buried in Osbaldwick, York.”
The convent has issued an invitation to discover more about Mary Ward and help to raise awareness of this key historic figure.

Activities

January 23-30 (except Sunday): Family Friendly Mary Ward Trail
Included in admission to the exhibition. Adults: £6, Children: £2.

Tuesday January 24, 1pm: An Introduction to Mary Ward with special collections manager Dr Hannah Thomas
An introductory talk about Mary Ward’s local, national and international importance. Available to purchase on the day. Adults: £6, concessions: £4. Includes admission to the exhibition.  

Saturday January 28, from 11am to 1pm and 2 to 4pm: York Residents Festival with Sister Ann Stafford
Sister Ann will be in the exhibition to chat to visitors about the significance of Mary Ward. Included in admission to the exhibition. 50p with proof of York Residency.

Sunday January 29, 4pm.: Annual Mary Ward Service
Ecumenical celebration of the life and legacy of Mary Ward at the Church of St Thomas in Osbaldwick.Contact reception@bar-convent.org.uk if you would like to attend either in person or online.