After prayer, reflection and engagement of members, the two congregations of apostolic women religious, Congregatio Jesu (CJ) and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM- Loreto) today merged into one.
The merged Congregatio Jesu, around 1,800 sisters worldwide, will continue to honour the legacy and charism of its foundress, Yorkshire’s Venerable Mary Ward.
The merger of the two congregations became a canonical and legal reality at noon (Rome time) today (November 4).
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, Father Arturo Sosa SJ.
“We are very happy we can finally fulfil Mary Ward’s dream of a united congregation of women religious with the same constitutions as those of the Society of Jesus”, states Sister 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 St Ignatius has so aptly described and held in the highest esteem, is the bond that deeply connects us.
“Seeing this union now realised not only in sisterly and spiritual but also in canonical and legal terms fills us all with great joy and deep gratitude.
Sister Carmel Swords CJ, former Institute leader of the IBVM, added: “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. 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 merger Mass on November 4 will be followed by a symposium on November 5. Both events will be livestreamed on the congregation’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UCSZE-ZQ7AOw0FnjVmgojQAQ
The recording of both events will be available at congregatiojesu.org