Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

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Taking part in the Women’s Synod held in Montreal on October 13 and 14, Sr. Claudette Bastien was impressed by the quality of the interventions and the relevance of what she heard. Approximately a hundred people, from all walks of life, gathered to discuss the theme of this synod, Living Equality Today, held in parallel with the bishops’ synod in Rome.

The panels and talking circles during the Women’s Synod gave rise to many constructive exchanges. Among the messages repeated was the “desire to have egalitarian relationships and to be able to take part in decision-making bodies”, mentions Sr. Claudette. If in many writings, including those of Pope Francis, there is much talk of respect for the dignity of persons, Sr. Claudette reiterates “that dignity does not mean equality.” 

Virtual interview with Catherine Clifford, theologian and participant in the Roman Synod.

The interview with Catherine Clifford, theologian at St. Paul’s University and voting participant in the Roman Synod, was a highlight (see article in Présence Info) in many respects, not least “the hope in her words”, says Denise Couture, theologian and member of the feminist collective L’autre Parole. During her talk, Ms. Clifford made clear the importance of a change of attitude and even a certain openness to the diaconate for women, thus provoking a few surprises in the audience.

Strong and stimulating words

Organized jointly by Femmes et Ministères and L’autre Parole, the women’s synod held in Montreal aimed to “experience a parallel synod based on the principles of equality, justice and participation for all.  According to Denise Couture, this goal was achieved, not least through the diversity and richness of what was said. This was the case in the first panel, which presented various forms of equal discipleship that already exist, but are not very visible or well known.

Panelists at the first Women’s Synod

According to Denise Couture, the testimonies of the young people on the second panel were deeply moving for the participants. “You had to hear several young people talk about their isolation in Church, their attempts to find ways to live out a group spirituality, and their distancing themselves from the institutional Church. One said that the Church is toxic and dangerous, so she avoids taking her three-year-old daughter there. It was moving.”

The international panel of women theologians was another highlight for the university theologian. “These women showed the injustice experienced in the Church at present and the possibilities of various actions to overcome this injustice. In my opinion, their words were powerful and relevant.”

Well-identified strategies

The significance of this Women’s Synod is that it has “clarified who we are and where we’re going.” And above all for having identified the four strategies that are currently in use and needed. “We need to reiterate that we need these strategies, and re-express the solidarity between us.”

These four strategies are based on the following elements:

  • An approach to demanding gender equality in all Church ministries supported by the Women and Ministries group.
  • The approach put forward by the collective L’autre Parole consists in creating and building alternative communities of equal disciples.
  • Another strategy encourages action now, even if it means suffering the consequences. This is the case of a group of 300 Catholic women priests around the world.
  • The other strategy focuses on denouncing discrimination against the Church by civil law.
  • For Denise Couture, “different strategies are necessary, and people can adopt several at the same time.” This is the case, she says, of women religious “who are both in the institution and free to build communities of equal discipleship, justice and equality. They do both at the same time.”

Acting in solidarity

The Women’s Synod is part of the worldwide movement launched by the Catholic Women’s Council (CWC) throughout the Roman Synod process. During this second stage, a number of groups have taken various actions in support of the theme of the movement. The PDF file contains a list of links to groups and details of some of the campaign’s activities.

In closing, a second event is scheduled for December 8 in Quebec City. It is in keeping with this spirit of nurturing multiple solidarities, in this case with social feminists. The colloquium, entitled Femmes et gouvernance : des rapports à changer entre l’État et l’Église? (Women and Governance: Changes to be made in the relationship between the State and the Church), will look at the question of patriarchy in the Church.

General view during the closing celebration.

Photos credit: Ms. Jo-Ann Lévesque

 

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Another Example of SNJM Solidarity With the Success of the Missionary Exposition-Sale

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Two new organizations have benefitted from the success of the craft fair held from October 19 to 23 at Maison Jésus-Marie as part of World Mission Week.  Sr. Suzanne Lavallée, who oversees this annual event, enthusiastically proclaimed, “This latest edition was a resounding success.”

After the difficult years caused by the constraints imposed by the pandemic, the 2023 edition was a resounding success. It’s worth noting that the talent of the thirty or so Sisters in both pavilions and the lay people has not diminished, quite the contrary.

At work all year round, alone or in groups, these nimble fingers create numerous pieces ranging from traditional scarves to mittens, tuques and sweaters, as well as items for infants, including little bonnets for premature babies. Another Sister also makes ceramic pieces.

A successful collaboration

The draw for some of the remarkable pieces delighted the winners and boosted revenues for this exhibition, which attracted many visitors. Profits from the event are donated to various organizations, in addition to the many boxes of items. “We received two new requests this year from Accueil Bonneau and L’Envol,” says Sr Suzanne, delighted to be able to meet their needs.

Sr Suzanne Lavallée

Other beneficiaries include the Fondation du Dr. Julien, Entraide Chez Nous, the Société Saint-Vincent de Paul, organizations working with the homeless, and the Premature Baby’s Unit at Sainte-Justine Hospital.

The success of this event is due, of course, to the craftswomen and the response of the public, who are loyal to the event. However, without the contribution of her “awesome team “, Sr. Suzanne, who can no longer easily move around, would not be able to carry out such a project. “This team is really wonderful. Each member takes care of placing the items on their table, managing it and seeing to the little details. When everything is finished, they put away the unsold items, clearly identifying them. This makes my job much easier when it comes to preparing the boxes to meet the expectations of each organization,” emphasizes Sr Suzanne.

In addition to the enthusiastic support of her right-hand woman, Sr. Monique Gendron, Sr. Suzanne enjoys the unfailing support of Sisters Marielle Beaudoin, Monique Pomerleau, Pierrette Panneton, Lorraine Bouffard, Marielle Lemay, Madeleine Marchand and Suzanne Morin. “I want to thank them sincerely. Without them, this activity would not be possible.

Photo credits: Srs Hélène Harvey and Suzanne Brault

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

SNJMs Express Solidarity in Several Ways on “Homeless Night”

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A number of Sisters and staff from the provincial and general administrations of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) took part in the “Night of the Homeless” vigil in Longueuil and Montreal on October 20.

A view of the facilities in Montreal.

This event is a demonstration of solidarity and awareness of the realities of homelessness. It is also an opportunity to share a heartfelt moment with the people being helped or who are helping.

Sr. Claudette Bastien, a regular at this 34th annual event in Montreal, experienced this first-hand when she made conversation with a homeless man sitting on a bench in front of one of the food stalls.

As soon as she spoke to him, he came back to the present moment, stopped shouting that hot dogs were unhealthy, and held a logical, sensible conversation. This long-time immigrant talked about the loss of his roots (language, culture) and how difficult it is to regain a foothold in today’s world.

Opening up to other realities

At St. Mark’s Park in Vieux-Longueuil, Sr. Denise Riel, provincial animator and long-time participant in this type of event, accompanied Sr. Lisette Boulé and several staff members from the two administrations. “As far as I’m concerned, the objectives of raising awareness and reducing prejudice were achieved for me and my little family,” says Geneviève Noël, who attended with her husband and two daughters.

When travelling on public transportation, it’s not unusual for them to come across people experiencing homelessness. “The difficulty is to get in touch with them.”  Moved by the event, her six-and-a-half-year-old daughter has decided to carry a candy bar in her pocket to give to a homeless person in the future. “This event enabled us to go further in our conversation with the girls,” adds Geneviève Noël.

Concrete support

In both Montreal and Longueuil, the “Night of the Homeless” took place in a convivial atmosphere, with shows, food stands and information booths to raise awareness of available resources. Despite the presence of a number of organizations, there is a huge need to respond to the situation of several thousand homeless people in the region. In fact, the number is estimated at 2,000 on the South Shore alone.

The participation of the SNJM delegation in the vigil was also a fitting end to the winter clothing and boot drive launched at the beginning of October. No fewer than 25 large bags were recently donated to Abri Rive-Sud to support the organization’s efforts to help the homeless. To find out more, watch the documentary Les visages de l’itinérance (The Faces of Homelessness) presented by Jean-Marie Lapointe at the Sommet municipal sur l’itinérance (in French only).

The group of participants in Longueuil.

 

 

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

SNJMs Celebrate 180 Years Since the Founding of Their Congregation

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October 28, 2023 marks the 180th anniversary of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). An important date that recalls the modest beginnings of this first Congregation of teaching Sisters founded by Canadian women.

On October 28, 1843, Eulalie Durocher and Mélodie Dufresne set off from Beloeil to join Henriette Céré, already a teacher at École de la Fabrique in Longueuil. Since then, more than 7,000 women from some 30 different countries have followed in the footsteps of these pioneers, working and still working on several continents.

At the provincial gathering of Quebec SNJMs on October 6, 2023, Sr. Denise Riel, provincial animator, recalled this significant anniversary. We have a cloud of witnesses above us… consecrated women who have gone before us, who have sown seeds, who have given life to the mission. Women who paved the way with creativity and daring… And they have transformed so many people, young and old, so many milieus, so many generations and societies.

“Our first Sisters paved the way. And for 180 years, we have followed in their footsteps, faithful to our charism and our values, throughout time and the ages, between productivity, detachment, fragility and faith, always attentive to the newness of the Spirit…”

Celebrating and sharing the SNJM legacy

The SNJMs of Quebec will be joining with others to mark this anniversary at key moments during the year, whether through religious ceremonies or special activities. A leaflet to mark the anniversary is available in the Marie-Rose Chapel at the Co-Cathedral during weekend celebrations.

At the same time, parishioners and devotees of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher take advantage of the chapel’s new layout to discover the story of this inspiring woman and of the Congregation. A religious community, moreover, that continues to defend the rights of marginalized people and the principles of integral ecology. In addition to the redesigned signage incorporating QR codes and web links, there are three artifact display counters, also complemented by web-based information.

For everyone’s convenience, the six posters are linked to this website, which you can consult at any time. Each of the three artefact counters covers different aspects. The first deals with the foundress Mother Marie-Rose and the Congregation. The second focuses more specifically on education, while the third illustrates some facets of the SNJM’s ongoing mission.

In conclusion, during the founding ceremony a few days later in 1843, the three young women received their religious names: Marie-Rose (Eulalie), Marie-Agnès (Mélodie) and Marie-Madeleine (Henriette). The event was held in the church that has since become the Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue. The links between the SNJMs and the Co-Cathedral go back to the earliest days of the Congregation’s foundation.

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Development and Peace: Campaign to Defend Water and Land in  Honduras

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Development and Peace – Caritas Canada’s new “United for the Earth” campaign focuses on protecting the defenders of environmental and human rights in Honduras. People are invited to sign a letter addressed to the Honduran ambassador to Canada by February 25, 2024.

The letter-signing campaign aims to encourage the Honduran government to protect those fighting to preserve their water and land, particularly in the face of mining exploitation. The letter also calls for an investigation into killings that have gone unpunished. Other demands include compensation for the victims, revocation of the mining permit and restoration of the Carlos Escalera National Park.

“Communities are displaced, rights violated, access and the right to water denied to give priority to extraction, the plundering of resources.” – Leonel George, member of the Committee for the Defense of Common and Public Goods of Tocoa, Colón

Honduras is one of the five most dangerous countries in the world for people working to protect the environment, water and land. These activists are often threatened, criminalized, imprisoned and even murdered! Development and Peace – Caritas Canada chose this theme for its campaign at the request of its partner in Honduras, ERIC-Radio Progreso.

Presentation at Maison Jésus-Marie

Details of the campaign and how to get involved will be presented at a meeting at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) by Julie Tétreault, SNJM volunteer. The meeting will take place on Friday, November 3, at 2:30 p.m.

In the meantime, you can watch the campaign launch webinar. The signature campaign is coupled with a fundraising campaign that enables the international solidarity organization to support some 80 projects in Canada and abroad (42 countries).

For an overview of the specific situation in Honduras, consult the thematic fact sheet.

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Many Reasons for Satisfaction for UNANIMA International

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A meeting of the UNANIMA International Board of Directors was held last September, bringing together the leaders of UNANIMA International’s member Congregations. The meeting focused on future directions for this non-governmental organization working at the United Nations. Sr Susan Wells, General Councillor, represented the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) at this stimulating meeting.

After outlining the work and achievements, particularly in the area of family homelessness and the interconnections with other issues, Executive Director Jean Quinn, FDLS, highlighted upcoming events where the NGO intends to continue its work in defense of the most marginalized people. The discussion period enabled member Congregations to express their comments and ideas on future directions, while underlining their satisfaction with the work accomplished.

Fighting injustice

In her introductory remarks in the latest UNANIMA International (UI) newsletter, Sr. Jean reminded us that our efforts are aimed at tackling social justice issues. This includes the impacts of climate change on specific groups and homelessness. “We will continue our exploration of what a ‘just’ society would look like, and the injustices people face because of their race, gender, sexual orientation and ethnicity.”

The newsletter reports on actions taken over the last few months at numerous events such as the High-Level Political Forum (https://hlpf.un.org/2023). UI has continued its defense of women and children, and more specifically of those experiencing displacement and homelessness.

There are also references to the Commission for Development (CSocD62), the World Assembly of Peoples and the 78th session of the UN General Assembly (GA78), not to mention participation in parallel events. Despite the many challenges ahead, including the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, general awareness and action are fuelling hope.

The testimonial section features an initiative by the Retired Sisters of the Assumption (SASV) in the northeastern U.S. state of Massachusetts to meet the needs of new waves of immigrants. Mention is also made of the collaborative work of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Uganda, who have set up a house of welcome to develop the skills of some 200 women. The aim is to help them become more self-sufficient and to support their children’s education.

Here’s another newsletter featuring a wide range of actions to make a difference. It’s available in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese.

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

A Missioning Rite That Calls For Living in the Present To Create Space For The Future

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The provincial gathering of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary of Quebec was held on Friday, October 6, the feast day of their foundress, Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher. Approximately 100 people gathered in the chapel of Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM), while dozens of Sisters followed the proceedings on closed circuit TV, to launch a new year in mission.

From the outset, Sr. Denise Riel, provincial animator, highlighted the legacy of the Sisters who had preceded them: “Women who paved the way with creativity, audacity and were transformed by this passion for Jesus…” Recalling that this year 2023-2024 marks 180 years of existence for the SNJM Congregation, Sr. Denise made no secret of the great challenges facing all religious communities and the Church, called “to transform and renew ourselves”. 

She linked her message with this year’s theme by concluding with the words, “This year, under the breath of the Spirit, let us create space within ourselves to prepare for the future, let us create an openness of heart and mind in the present for the future.”

Envisioning the future by assuming the present

Focusing on “Creating Space For The Future”, Sr. Lorna Cooney shared her reflections entitled, “The Different Ways In Which We Envision The Future And How It Relates To The Present.”  In doing so, she dwelt on the nature and quality of presence and the need to be aware of the present. “… it’s all we have.” To drive this point home, she quoted Margaret Wheatley: “The future comes from where we are. It comes from the actions, values and beliefs we practice now. We create the future every day by what we choose to do. If we want a different future, we have to take responsibility for what we do in the present.”

She ended her sharing with a call to hope as many today feel their lives are less dynamic than in another era. “We must not be discouraged. There is a daily death and self-giving that makes us, in our own unique way, a living stone, animated by our charism, supporting the Church’s mission by giving it vitality and cementing it by the holiness of our lives, day after day.”

A discussion period followed. Those present gathered in threes to share the elements that had touched them most in these presentations and on the theme of the year. This was followed by an open discussion in which a number of Suns expressed their openness to transformation and concrete action in the near future.

A meaningful Rite of Missioning

Following the break, the three members of the Provincial Leadership Team took turns presenting more factual information regarding current projects. Sr. Denise Riel spoke about the future of MJM, while Sr. Claudette Bastien provided some details about the Justice Committee partners project, the joint renewal of commitment of the Anglophone and Francophone Associates, and the launch of the Eulalie-Rose Foundation and its website.

For her part, Sr. Lisette Boulé extended an invitation to visit the refurbished Marie-Rose chapel in the co-cathedral, and announced the dates of certain events for the coming year.

This moment of gathering was interspersed several times with the song “Que tes œuvres sont belles”. (Your works are so beautiful). The gathering ended with the celebration and missioning rite, with the presentation of a bookmark. All were invited for refreshments in the cafeteria.

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Pastoral Unit of Vieux-Longueuil Pays Tribute to Blessed Marie-Rose

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An initiative of the priests and pastoral team of Vieux-Longueuil culminated on October 6 with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration in tribute to Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, at Saint-Antoine-de-Padoue Co-Cathedral. Prior to the celebration, over 75 people attended a presentation by Geneviève Noël, SNJM associate and head of the Congregation’s archives.

Mrs. Noël outlined Eulalie Durocher’s career path, pointing out the challenges faced by the young woman from Saint-Antoine-sur-Richelieu. Continuing with details of her 12-year pastoral commitment in Beloeil and Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Madame Noël highlighted the leadership and interpersonal skills of the foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM).

In her testimonial, Mrs. Noël revealed how Eulalie’s personality struck a chord with her: in particular, her understanding of the needs of the community, her vision of an education that fosters personal fulfillment, and her general attitude in the face of adversity. Among other things, this is what prompted her to follow a spiritual path as an SNJM associate.

Learning more about SNJMs

Mrs. Noël concluded her presentation by inviting those present to learn more about the Blessed Marie-Rose’s story and the SNJM’s ongoing mission. Visitors to the Marie-Rose chapel, located in the right transept of the co-cathedral, can view the artifacts and posters on display.

Each of these display elements features QR codes and web links to help visitors discover a variety of aspects. In addition to the history of the foundress and the Congregation, there is a wealth of information about the SNJM’s educational mission, social justice and integral ecology initiatives.

Father Charles Mangongo, r.s.v., presided over the Eucharistic Celebration that followed. He took the opportunity to highlight the contribution of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher and her presence in the Co-cathedral. Following the celebration, several parishioners gathered for a time of fellowship with members of the pastoral team and SNJM Sisters.

October 6 is the anniversary of the birth and death of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher. Over the past three weeks, the Semainier paroissial (bulletin) has presented short texts unveiling some key elements of Blessed Marie-Rose’s story. The texts were written by Michelle Beaulac-Samson, head of catechesis for 8–13-year-olds.

The entire process of paying tribute to the SNJM foundress was overseen by Céline Wakil, coordinator of the Vieux-Longueuil parish and pastoral team.

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Saint-Timothée: Recognizing The Legacy Of Blessed Marie-Rose

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On September 10, as part of the Journées du patrimoine religieux (Religious Heritage Days), Saint-Timothée Parish in the Valleyfield Diocese, organized a celebration and presentation on the life of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher. The event brought together parishioners and former students of the Saint-Timothée convent.

The initiative for this activity came from the parish priest, André Lafleur, a family friend of Sr. Gabrielle Brunet, snjm, well known in nearby Saint-Louis-de Gonzague. Recognizing the important role of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) in his community, Father Lafleur wanted to recall and keep alive the legacy of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher.

Sister Gabrielle Brunet, snjm

Sr. Gabrielle was given the delicate task of presenting a brief account of the life of Mother Marie-Rose, beatified in 1982. After recounting her childhood in broad outline, Sr. Gabrielle emphasized her great piety and her ability to welcome and listen to young and old alike. A pastoral care worker, long before the term was defined, Mother Marie-Rose, known then as Eulalie Durocher, was involved in many ways in the Beloeil region, as the speaker pointed out.

“Around 1835, the Richelieu region was going through a difficult period… Eulalie visited families, bringing provisions and encouraging the most destitute. She involved children and young women in this mission. Concrete signs of her zeal and concerted action can be seen…”

Before concluding her talk, Sr. Gabrielle recalled Mother Marie-Rose’s determination to give priority to a full and complete education for young girls, so that they could assume the pivotal role within the family.

A brief history of the founding of Saint-Timothée

This vision of the SNJM’s foundress led her to work hard despite the limited resources of the young Congregation, founded in 1843. She herself accompanied the first four Sisters sent to found the Saint-Timothée convent in September 1848.

The request came from Father Joseph Olivier Archambault, a cousin of Mother Marie-Rose. Before welcoming them, the Abbé had the chapel, built in 1819, enlarged. The convent was replaced by a new building in 1885. The SNJMs worked there until July 31, 1968.

First convent in Saint-Timothée, founded by Mother Marie-Rose

Throughout the 120 years of their presence, the SNJMs welcomed primary and secondary school pupils, boarders, day pupils and students from the parish school to the convent. As early as 1955, Sisters taught at École Marie-Rose, and in 1965, at École secondaire Saint-André (High School).

Gathering and donation

During the gathering, in addition to speeches by Curé Lafleur and Sr. Gabrielle, a statue and a relic of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher were donated to the parish. These precious objects will serve as a reminder of the importance of the SNJMs to the parish community.

This was followed by light refreshments, during which those present shared memories and anecdotes. Sister Gabrielle Brunet was accompanied by Sisters Lisette Boulé, provincial councillor, and Thérèse Laplante, until recently in charge of the Centre Marie-Rose.

Former students of the Saint-Timothée convent with SNJM Sisters and members of the team who organized the event.

Source photo: Paroisse Saint-Timothée, diocèse de Valleyfield and Service central des archives SNJM

Women’s Synod: Continuing the Journey Towards an Ecclesia of Justice and Equality

Invitation To a Handicraft Exhibition/Sale To Support Current Missions

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The handicraft exhibition is back again this year in the lobby of Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) from October 19 to 23. The event is open to Sisters, SNJM affiliates and the general public. It has a dual purpose: to raise funds to support the missions of local organizations, and to showcase the talent of the Sisters and lay people who knit and make numerous items throughout the year.

Every year, the knitting fairies create tuques, mittens, scarves, slippers, stockings, shawls and many items for children and babies (sweaters, blankets, various sets). Other craftswomen create Christmas decorations and ceramic items.

This exhibition/sale is a concrete way of living out both the theme of Mission Sunday “Burning Hearts, On the Move!” and that of the theme of this year for the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) in Quebec, namely: “Creating Space for the Future.” As Sister Suzanne Lavallée, who oversees this activity, points out, “We’re still on the move… thanks to the skillful hands of our Sisters and lay friends.”

This activity fits well with the message delivered recently during the reflection on the theme of the year, “The future comes from where we are. It materializes from the actions, values, and beliefs we’re practicing now. We’re creating the future everyday by what we choose to do.” (quote from Margareth Whealey)

We invite you to visit this exhibition/sale, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from October 19 to 23 at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM).