Under the inspiring theme “Abiding in Hope, we move forward together,” the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) and some associates enthusiastically gathered at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) on Saturday, October 4, for their annual provincial meeting, organized by the Quebec Leadership Team.

A Time of Welcome and Reflection

The day began with a warm welcome by Sr. Lisette Boulé, followed by an uplifting song by Robert Lebel’s Prenons la route ensemble (Let Us Take the Road Together) by Robert Lebel.

Sr. Denise Riel, Provincial Animator, then invited participants to take time for a deep reflection on the theme of the year. She situated this gathering within the broader context of the Congregation — founded in 1843 by Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher — as it prepares for its 36th General Chapter in 2026.

Moving Forward Amid Uncertainty

Acknowledging the shadows and challenges of today’s world, Sr. Denise shared a message filled with faith and hope:

“Moving forward together means trusting in who we have become — women rooted in our cultural identity and at the same time open to the world.”

Drawing on the transformative experiences already lived by the Sisters and associates in Quebec, she reminded everyone that in a world weakened by conflict and division, the mission of the SNJMs remains as vital as ever: to be witnesses of hope.

Sharing, Listening, and Renewed Commitment

Sr. Lise Bluteau

Small-group discussions gave each participant the opportunity to share their reflections and enrich the collective dialogue. The sharing time concluded with a plenary session marked by attentive listening and solidarity.

Following this, Sr. Lise Bluteau explained the process for electing the delegates who will attend the upcoming General Chapter of the SNJM. Sr. Claudette Bastien then led a meaningful community celebration, during which the three members of the Leadership Team renewed their commitment until the end of their mandate in July 2026.

A Gathering Filled with Joy

The day ended in a warm and joyful atmosphere, as everyone shared refreshments and continued their conversations informally. Some even took the time to visit those on other floors who had followed the meeting via closed-circuit broadcast.

Once again, this annual gathering reflected the vitality, unity, and enduring hope that continue to animate the SNJM community and their associates in Quebec.

Photos credit: Sr. Suzanne Brault

On September 12, Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) was filled with emotion and gratitude as the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) gathered to celebrate their 2025 jubilarians under the inspiring theme: “His Love is Eternal.”

This gathering highlighted the journey of faith and commitment of twenty Sisters, celebrating 60, 70 and 75 years of consecrated life, and one Associate marking 25 years of commitment.

A tribute filled with gratitude

Sister Claudette Bastien who animated the event, paid tribute to these women who, throughout their lives, actualized their God-given gifts through their mission to the Church and society.

“Dear Jubilarians, you have become witnesses of hope for our world. Please accept our gratitude.”

A joyful community celebration

Abbé Gilles Fontaine and Mgr Claude Hamelin

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop Claude Hamelin, Bishop of the Diocese of Saint-Jean—Longueuil, who knows the SNJMs very well from his time as a pastoral agent at Collège Durocher—Saint-Lambert. His joy at seeing familiar faces and personally greeting the jubilarians was heartfelt. Father Gilles Fontaine, chaplain at MJM, also took part in this important event.

Mrs. Gabrielle Tessier

One of the highlights of the Mass was the renewal of vows by the Sisters, and the renewal of promises by our Associate, a moving gesture that recalled the fidelity and depth of their commitment. The musical accompaniment, provided by Ms. Gabrielle Tessier, organist at the co-cathedral, greatly enhanced the liturgy. She is a former student of Sister Monique Pomerleau (one of the jubilarians) when she taught organ at the Vincent-d’Indy School of Music.

A gathering filled with joy

Following the Liturgy, the celebration continued with delicious refreshments in a joyous and convivial atmosphere. The exchange of congratulatory wishes, shared anecdotes, and the joy of being together made this gathering a moment rich in warmth and mutual appreciation.

A carefully prepared gathering

As every year, this celebration was made possible thanks to the dedication of an organizing committee comprised this time of Sisters Jacqueline Aubry, Lisette Boulé, Lise Gendron and Simone Perras.

• This event, always eagerly awaited, is not only to celebrate the jubilarians, but also to remind the entire community of the value of the educational, spiritual and social mission that the SNJMs continue to carry out with heart and hope.

📌 You can still send your congratulations to the jubilarians by consulting the 2025 list.

Photo credits: Sister Hélène Harvey and Mrs. Julie Tétreault, SNJM affiliate

Mgr Claude Hamelin

On September 13, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) hosted the Diocesan Renewal Day, organized at the invitation of Bishop Claude Hamelin of the Diocese of Saint-Jean/Longueuil and the Diocesan Council for Consecrated Life.

Held under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope, Rejoice,” this annual gathering brought together members of religious institutes for a time of socializing, reflection, and spiritual renewal—especially meaningful in this Jubilee Year.

Inspiring Testimonies

The day was facilitated by Brother Mario Houle, f.i.c., and Ms. Francine Vincent, coordinator and head of the Diocesan Pastoral Coordination Service (SCPD). Through their reflections, they invited participants to consider their life journeys in light of the subthemes “pilgrims” and “hope”, drawing on their own spiritual paths as examples.

Mrs Francine Vincent and Brother Mario Houle, f.i.c.

Enriching Exchanges

In small group discussions, participants shared what had touched them during the presentations, exchanged on their own “personal journey” and deepened their understanding of the theme. A presentation on the Jubilee offered an opportunity to revisit its origins, history, and meaning as a time of celebration and renewal.

A Cherished Gathering

For several years now, MJM has hosted this diocesan day, known for its welcoming and inspiring atmosphere. It provides members of religious communities with a special space to build connections, nurture hope, and renew their commitment to their mission.

Photo report : Srs. Suzanne Brault and Hélène Harvey

On Saturday, September 6, as part of the Religious Heritage Days (RHD), the activities offered by the Marie-Rose Centre at the Congregation House of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) drew remarkable success. Even before the official opening, a line had already formed—clear proof of the public’s enthusiasm for this special event. More than 350 people took part in a day rich in encounters and discoveries.

A Popular Bazaar and a Mini-Exhibition

Visitors had the opportunity of purchasing a variety of items—vases, frames, furniture, chairs, and antiques—while also benefiting from the insights of a museologist, who explained the history and use of certain artifacts. A silent auction gave attendees the opportunity to acquire antique furniture at attractive prices.

At the same time, a mini-exhibition showcased the SNJM’s influence in the development of the arts, reminding visitors of an important facet of the Congregation’s educational and cultural heritage.

Exploring the Heritage Site

Guided by an SNJM sister, several participants enjoyed a visual presentation highlighting the site’s historic buildings, some dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Outdoors, under a tent, the story of Eulalie Durocher (Mother Marie-Rose), the foundress of the Congregation, was presented through drawings by Sister Annette Stewart, designed to bring this history to life for children.

Meaningful Exchanges

Beyond the scheduled activities, many visitors took the opportunity to share memories and anecdotes with the Sisters—recalling their own experiences in SNJM schools, or learning about the Congregation’s current missions. These conversations highlighted the continuity of the SNJM’s commitment, which today extends into areas such as social justice, the fight against human trafficking, support for migrants and refugees, and the promotion of integral ecology and the defense of water as a universal human right.

A Living Legacy

Although the site’s indoor spaces are no longer accessible to the public, the Marie-Rose Centre (MRC) continues its mission of transmission. It highlights the history of the Congregation, its foundress and the SNJM’s present-day commitments, which remain active in North and South America as well as in Africa.

For those who missed the event, the heritage can still be discovered through a self-guided memory trail along Saint-Charles Street East, in Longueuil. Posters with QR codes allow passersby to access stories and historical insights, available until the first snowfall.

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)

This summer, the garden space at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) was transformed into a colorful oasis. At the request of the Sisters, Sr. Léa Dulude devoted herself with renewed energy to turning the space into a floral haven. True to her love of gardening, she blended vegetables and flowers to create a little paradise for all to enjoy.

Sr. Léa Dulude

“The Sisters asked me if it would be possible to have more flowers this year.” A request quickly granted! Sr. Léa recovered surplus flowers, which had been cared for by Sr. Hélène Harvey, from the baskets on the upper floors, and carefully planted them. She arranged them alongside geraniums, coleus, and the returning cosmos from last year, creating a vibrant display. The season’s surprise: two young trees that had sprouted from homemade compost turned out to be peach trees! They joined the citrus seedlings (lemon, orange, and more) that Sr. Léa nurtures indoors during the winter months and offers as gifts the following summer.

The Secret? Homemade Compost

At the heart of this flourishing garden is a simple but invaluable practice: composting. Every day, residents deposit apple cores, peelings, and other fruit and vegetable scraps into designated bins. Sr. Léa then buries them in the garden, naturally enriching the soil. “Our compost helps loosen the earth and make it more supple,” she explains. The result: fertile ground that supports new growth year after year.

Flowers and Vegetables: A Delicate Balance

Although more flowers meant less space for vegetables, the garden still offered a variety: potatoes, tomatoes big and small, cucumbers, squash, basil, kale, carrots, and beets. The particularly hot summer favored the flowers, admired both outdoors and from the cafeteria or balconies. The vegetables faced tougher challenges—drought, aphids, and even a hungry groundhog. Still, Sr. Léa rejoiced at harvesting plenty of small tomatoes to share, along with generous squash and late-ripening colorful peppers.

A Passion that Nourishes the Soul

Behind every gesture, Sr. Léa reconnects with her farming roots. “I take no credit. I simply love it. For me, gardening is a way to connect with Creation. Nature is like an open book full of lessons. To contemplate beauty daily and spread joy around you is deeply enriching.”

And joy, she shares abundantly! Always looking for new ideas, Sr. Léa experiments with cuttings to prepare for the following season. She has even started creating small floral arrangements. For birthdays, she crafts charming pots mixing cosmos, coleus, and carrot greenery. Each gift brings radiant joy to its recipient.

A Garden that Brings People Together

For the residents of MJM, this garden is more than a space for cultivation—it is a place of inspiration, gratitude, and community. A simple vegetable garden has blossomed into a true garden of joy.

Photo report: Sr. Suzanne Brault and Sr. Léa Dulude