400 Words of Encouragement for Back-to-School

For many children, the start of a new school year is both exciting and a little intimidating. Again this year, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) supported and encouraged students during this important transition. At Maison Jésus-Marie in Longueuil, the Sisters wrote nearly 400 personalized cards filled with encouraging words for children experiencing their very first school year or for those returning to the classroom.

These heartfelt messages were part of Operation Backpacks, an initiative organized during the Apple Festival by La Croisée and the Vieux-Longueuil citizens’ committee. More than a simple distribution of school supplies, this project fosters solidarity between newcomers, local families, and community organizations. It helps ensure that every child begins the school year on equal footing while also opening a door to community networks and resources.

Words That Carry a Mission

Marianne Daudelin with an example of the cards given to young people.

The SNJM’s participation goes far beyond a symbolic gesture. Having dedicated their lives to education and the growth of young people, the Sisters’ words hold special meaning. For many children and parents, receiving a card handwritten by a Sister feels like a warm message of encouragement from a “grandmotherly friend.”

Present at the August distribution event, Sr. Denise Riel, Provincial Animator of the SNJMs in Quebec, and Marianne Daudelin, Animator of Community Activities and Services at Maison Jésus-Marie, witnessed firsthand the joy and pride of children and families receiving their cards.

Solidarity That Grows

In just three years, Operation Backpacks has become a cherished community tradition. This edition brought together several partners, including L’Entraide chez nous, Le Partage Saint-François-de-Sales, La Virevolte, La Casa Bernard Hubert, and Vision Interculture. Thanks to their collaboration, nearly 700 families were able to benefit from this generous initiative, which has become a highlight of the Apple Festival—a much-anticipated community event in Longueuil.

Always on Mission

Through this simple yet meaningful gesture, the SNJMs continue to demonstrate that their mission is alive and relevant: to encourage, support, and spread hope, especially among young people. Just as they have done throughout their history, the Sisters remain committed to guiding new generations toward growth and fulfillment, while staying close to today’s families and their realities.

Photo credit: La Croisée de Longueuil (F)