An SNJM Pilgrimage in Longueuil: Inspiring, Experiencing community spirit and Being full of hope for the Future

Affiliates of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) left Longueuil with hearts full of joy and inspiration after experiencing a memorable pilgrimage from October 10 to 13, 2025.

The chosen format permitted the 16 participants from Manitoba and the United States to share in a rhythm of discovery, heartfelt conversations, and spiritual moments. Staying at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM), they also had the opportunity to connect with the SNJM residents in an atmosphere of hospitality and simplicity.

“We experienced real magic in our encounters with the SNJM Sisters at Maison Jésus-Marie,” shared Geneviève Noël, Affiliate, and a member of the organizing committee. “The Sisters warmly welcome us and we shared beautiful moments with them.”

More Than a Pilgrimage

A stop in Saint-Antoine-sur-Richelieu, the birthplace of Mother Marie-Rose.

The journey of visiting the sites linked to Marie-Rose Durocher and the early days of the Congregation was deeply human and spiritual.

“This weekend helped us get to know one another, build bonds, and recognize shared affinities,” Geneviève said.

Inspired by pioneering women like Eulalie, and Jeanne Mance and Marguerite Bourgeoys who came before her, the participants explored concrete ways of living out the SNJM mission today.

“We are striving to carry forward the SNJM values despite family responsibilities and cultural differences,” Geneviève explained. “We even dreamed of coordinated symbolic actions we could take at the same time, wherever we are in the world.”

A Rich Journey of Heritage and Reflection

The pilgrimage began Friday evening with a warm welcome and opening ritual, setting the tone for a spiritually rich experience.

On Saturday, the group headed to the Richelieu River, where it all began for Eulalie Durocher. The first stop was at the commemorative tree planted on the founding site in Longueuil to mark the 200th anniversary of her birth.

The day continued with visits to Eulalie’s birthplace in Saint-Antoine-sur-Richelieu, including a stop at the church and family memorial; Beloeil – where she served for 12 years, and a reflective pause at Lake Hertel, following a delightful lunch at Vergers Petit in Mont-Saint-Hilaire.

Sunday’s focus was the SNJM heritage site: the Foundation House, the Congregation House with its historical rooms and chapel, and the cemetery — a moving experience, especially for those familiar with the location.

The afternoon included visits to the Co-cathedral museum, Chapelle Marie-Rose, and the SNJM archives, offering a rich historical perspective.

The day ended on a sweet note when some of the Quebec Affiliates joined the participants for a delicious dessert spread.

On Monday, a river shuttle to Old Montreal led to more discoveries, including the Marguerite Bourgeoys Museum and Notre-Dame Basilica. Rituals, shared meals, and moments of quiet rounded out this full and meaningful program.

An Experience Worth Sharing

“The SNJM Sisters have always been educators in their communities, regardless of their specific mission. The opportunity to carry that torch is very real for us too,” Geneviève concluded.

The energy and enthusiasm of the participants point toward a promising future — with hopes to offer similar experiences to other groups in the coming years. A pilgrimage that opens the heart, the mind, and the path forward…

Sr. Mary Haupt, Sr. Michelle Garlinski, Yasmine Matar (Affiliate), and Geneviève Noël formed the organizing team behind this uplifting event.