KENYA: Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Congregation of Jesus Unite in Historic Merger
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
The Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), commonly known as the Loreto Sisters, and the Congregation of Jesus (CJ) officially merged into a single congregation on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, bringing to fruition a dream envisioned by the foundress of both congregations, Venerable Mary Ward.
Following years of prayer, reflection, and discernment, the formal proclamation of the merger took place during a special Mass in Loyola, Spain, presided over by Fr. Arturo Sosa, the General Superior of the Society of Jesus.
The unified congregation, which has become a canonical and legal reality, will now be known as the Congregation Jesus, bringing together approximately 1,800 sisters worldwide who are committed to continuing the mission of evangelization, education, and service, inspired by Mary Ward’s Charism and the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
Proclaiming the merger during the Holy Mass on Tuesday, the General Superior of the Congregation of Jesus, Sr. Veronica Fuhrmann, said, “We are very happy that we can finally fulfill Mary Ward’s dream of a united congregation of women religious with the same constitutions as those of the Society of Jesus.”
“Throughout history, but especially during the last years, we have journeyed in close connection. We share the same charism, values, and understanding of mission. Seeing this union now realized not only in sisterly and spiritual but also in canonical and legal terms fills us all with great joy and deep gratitude,” Sr. Fuhrmann added.
She reflected on the spiritual significance of the historic event and described it as a moment of joy rooted in Ignatian spirituality.
She reminded the Sisters that this “Union of minds and hearts” is a precious gift that must be “carefully and lovingly nurtured” to remain strong in the face of future challenges.
Drawing from St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises, she noted that joy is a key sign of spiritual consolation, saying, “When we are truly joyful, this joy permeates all areas of our being and actions… Joyful people seek communication and encounter; they radiate hope and confidence, and can face the future without fear, even if it is challenging.”
Besides, she added, “True joy always has a transcendent character; it reaches beyond earthly things and ultimately leads to God. Today is such a day of joy, and we are compelled to share and spread it as we embrace our shared future with a generous yes.”
As the Sisters celebrated the day’s liturgy, they renewed their vows as an outward sign of their unity in faith, reaffirming their openness to be faithful companions of Mary Ward.
“We ask the Lord to shower His blessings upon our united congregation, upon this new phase in our history, and to keep us in this joyful ‘Union of Minds and Hearts’ for His greater glory and the good of those to whom we are sent,” Sr. Fuhrmann concluded.
The Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Congregation of Jesus trace their origins to the early 17th century through the pioneering vision of Mary Ward (1585–1645). The 2025 merger marks the full realization of Mary Ward’s dream: a united congregation of women religious living and serving under one constitution, one spirit, and one mission, a milestone of hope, unity, and faith for the universal Church.
