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Becoming One
The Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM) and Congregation of Jesus (CJ), currently two different congregations, are becoming one. As Mary Ward women, we are determined to accomplish and celebrate this process that will lead us to the union of hearts and minds.
Beginning on January 31st, this page will contain resources from the Spiritual Journey process and other information leading up to merger later this year.
Timeline to Merger
● January 23 - 30: Mary Ward Week 2025, celebrating Mary Ward as a Pilgrim of Hope
● February to July: A worldwide Spiritual Journey of prayer and reflection, open to our associates, alumni, and any friends who would like to pray with us
● July 31: Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, on which each IBVM sister will take a formal vote to join the CJ
● November 4: Our official merger date, pending an affirmative outcome. November marks the founding of the Loreto branch in 1822 in Ireland by Teresa Ball, and will also be the day on which IBVM sisters become CJ sisters
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