After writing some 290 obituaries for the website of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) of Quebec, Sr. Yolande Dufresne has passed the torch.

At the ripe old age of 95, she chose to put away her pen before this wonderful adventure, begun in 2009, became a “chore”. “I’ve always enjoyed doing this work,” she says. Throughout her 15-year career, Sr. Yolande has never wavered from her mission to bear witness to the contribution of the Sisters to the community, the Church and society.

As a member of the SNJM Québec Communications Committee, with Sr. Pat O’Neill (still at the helm in 2025) and Sr. Monique Thériault in charge, Sr. Yolande discovered the impact of the Internet on information sharing, worldwide.

From that time on, Sr. Yolande sought to answer questions that were on people’s minds, but not always clearly formulated. “Why did this Sister commit herself to religious life? What motivated her? What kept her going until the end?” Whether they came from people close to her or from the wider community, she was keen to provide answers.

Although there have always been SNJM community obituaries, “I suggested, at the committee’s first meetings in 2009, that we add, as content, an article on the deceased Sisters so as not to forget them.”  She adds: “With the Internet, it was different. We could now share the Sisters’ treasures and in a way prolong their apostolic action.” Her suggestion accepted, she was entrusted with the mandate.

As fate would have it, her first text was dedicated to Sr. Thérèse Rivest, a former bursar on her Council team.

The pleasures of discovery

To write articles in line with her mission, Sr. Yolande spent 75% of her time gathering information. “I need the context to inspire me and try to bring to life the environment where the Sister evolved. It allows me to connect with her,” stresses Sr. Yolande, who spent a minimum of two weeks working on each obituary.

This information gathering was fruitful in more ways than one. In addition to providing information on the time-frame and the living environment, this “research has enriched me. It broadened my horizons and developed my knowledge.”

And above all, this writing adventure revealed a few pearls of wisdom. “Each Sister has her own colors and knows how to face life” which leads her to assert “there is no such thing as an insignificant life.”

The woman who wanted to bring out the good and the beautiful in each of her deceased Sisters stresses that her hard work inspired her opening sentence. “I always had a good beginning.” However, she humbly admits, “I had difficulty coming to a conclusion.”

Under Sr. Monique’s expert guidance, she gradually developed her conclusions to bring a special touch to each of her “tribute” texts.

It was with complete serenity that she ceased this writing mission at the end of 2024. “I feel like I’m on vacation.” She is now recovering from the fatigue she has accumulated, and hopes to be able to devote herself to another of her passions: the arts.

Happy retirement, Sr. Yolande!

As the years go by and people age, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) in Quebec continue to be inspired by the charism and values of their foundress, Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher.

A look back at 2024 reveals that the SNJMs are as committed as ever. The presentation of these 12 or so actions reflects this work in solidarity, this approach of collaboration and transmission, and this boldness in developing ways to continue the mission and promote the ideals of justice, both in the environment and on social and profoundly human issues such as human trafficking, the situation of aboriginals, and the reception of migrants and refugees.

A look back at a year of multi-faceted commitments.

SNJM Support For The Protection of Human Rights And The Environment In Honduras

Year after year, the SNJMs of Quebec participate in the solidarity campaigns of Development and Peace – Caritas Canada. Last year, they supported the “Solidaires pour la terre” (In Solidarity for the Land)  initiative to help the people of Honduras continue their work to protect the environment, water and land threatened in particular by mining.

Remaining Active With the Help of Young Academics

The SNJM Québec Justice and Peace Committee’s initiative to involve three young university students in continuing their commitment to the themes of the collective position statements has aroused enthusiasm among the Sisters. During the first meetings with the students, some Sisters were quick to ask questions and express their desire to help them carry the torch. This innovative idea is also attracting a great deal of interest from other SNJM provinces, who see it as a great way of accentuating their mission. The young partners also took part in a meeting with SNJM volunteers.

Hunger Meal Nourishing Solidarity in Our Lives

As part of the Development and Peace Lenten campaign, SNJMs continued to join in gesture and spirit with the millions of people suffering from hunger and poverty around the world. This hunger meal (soup, bread and cheese) is a traditional activity that recalls the work of many SNJM missionaries among impoverished populations.

The SNJMs of Quebec Are Very Committed to Laudato Si’

The SNJM’s commitment to the principles of integral ecology is not new. Actions on a human scale are setting an example for the raising of awareness of the residents of Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM). We take a brief look at these measures, which, one gesture at a time, are helping to protect Mother Earth.  

SNJM Volunteer Involved in a Food Transformation Project

Julie Tétreault, SNJM volunteer and member of the SNJM Québec Justice and Peace Committee, and her husband, Michel Lavallée, have found another way to further their commitment to integral ecology. They explain the nature of their commitment, which complements their daily actions.

Celebrating Planting Resulting in a Bountiful Harvest

Keeping in line with our environmental commitments, this article is another reminder of our steadfast commitment to maintaining an impressive vegetable garden, and to an operation just as beneficial as composting, even if this action is limited in scope for the time being. Inspired by her deep-rooted family traditions, Sr. Léa Dulude shares her knowledge and passion for growing vegetables and flowers. Her companions enjoy the beauty, smells and tastes of everything that grows in this large garden.

Halte Marie-Rose Inspires Community Solidarity

La Halte Marie-Rose was launched on October 6, 2018, in tribute to Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, the foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). The organization, which serves the people of Le Moyne and Greenfield Park, is greatly fulfilling its mission of welcome and openness. It has established itself as a catalyst and community hub. Here is an overview of this community initiative, which received a boost from the SNJMs following the launch of the Fall “opération d’entraide”.

A Successful Final Edition of the Missionary Exposition Sale

For the past 20 years, Sr. Suzanne Lavallée, with the help of the Sisters and lay people with their magical fingers, has organized a handicraft exhibition. The event encourages exchanges between these craftswomen and raises funds to support community organizations. Here is a look at another facet of SNJM mission work.

Night for the Homeless: Discovering the many facets of homelessness

The SNJMs of Quebec are also concerned by the problems experienced by people who are homeless. Their commitment takes the form of support for organizations and participation in awareness-raising activities such as Nuit des sans-abri(Night of the Homeless). Members of the Quebec SNJM Leadership Team shared their latest experience, reminding us of the importance of being present and better understanding the plight of people experiencing homelessness.

Beautiful Encounters Between EMJM and the Matimekush-Lac John Community

The SNJMs are not alone in conveying the values of the foundress. They have passed them on to the students, principals and staff of the schools they have founded in the past, and to the many people and organizations with whom they collaborate. The reconciliation process put forward by Externat Mont-Jésus-Marie (EMJM) with the Matimekush-Lac John community in Schefferville is a fine example of a living legacy.

Opening to Aboriginal perspectives with Joséphine Bacon

The talk with Joséphine Bacon at Maison Jésus-Marie was organized thanks to the contribution of one of the three partners of the SNJM Québec Justice and Peace Committee. It also reflects the interest shown for several years by the SNJMs in better understanding the realities of the First Nations and going out to meet them. It was a memorable moment for all present.

Called To Serve…

The SNJM family experienced two high points in 2024 with the commitment of Marie Girardin as a consecrated laywoman and the first promises of Carmen Arnold, a new SNJM associate. Each in their own way responds to this invitation “called to serve” by their presence and their desire to promote values in favor of justice and solidarity.

The year 2024 was rich in highlights and festivities. In addition to annual activities such as birthday celebrations and the presentation of various concerts at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM), the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) experienced a few well-deserved moments of rejoicing.

These include jubilee celebrations, moments of recognition, and a major inauguration. Then, there was the once-in-a-lifetime event of the solar eclipse!

Here is a look at some of the SNJM highlights in 2024.

The annual PLT visit under the theme of gratitude

The 180-year history of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), founded in 1843 by Eulalie Durocher, was brought to life in a heartwarming moment of exchange.

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Mother Marie-Rose’s Tomb at the Co-Cathedral: 20 years old!

A historic event for the SNJMs, bringing their foundress front and center, on the very spot in Longueuil where the Congregation was founded. A moment that brings back unforgettable memories for the Sisters.

éclipse solaire

Amazement and Gratitude!

How can we not marvel at the splendour of the total solar eclipse? Like millions of other people, many SNJMs witnessed this astronomical phenomenon, described by Charles Tisseyre, host of the TV program Découverte, as “the most amazing spectacle nature has to offer”.

Recognition of Sr. Liette Lessard’s Commitment to Parish Ministry

Sr. Liette Lessard worked for 51 years in the Charlemagne region. The St-Paul-L’Ermite and Sts-Simon et Jude pastoral unit paid tribute to her during the Mass of the Nations in June 2024.

Celebration in honor of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher and Blessed Marie Rivier

The successors of foundresses Marie-Rose Durocher (SNJM) and Marie Rivier (PM), both beatified on May 23, 1982 by Pope John Paul II, celebrated this momentous occasion together for the first time at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM).

SNJM’s Vision Lives On At PSNM

The inauguration of the new pavilion at Pensionnat Saint-Nom-de-Marie (PSNM) confirms the school’s determination to offer a contemporary, forward-looking education in keeping with SNJM values. In 2025, we will be celebrating 120 years of existence of this educational institution for girls.

A Beautiful Tribute to the SNJM 2024 Jubilarians

The bishop of the Saint-Jean-Longueuil diocese presided over the celebration honouring the jubilarian Sisters. The Sisters celebrated 75, 70 and 60 years of religious life in the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) with joy and friendship. Two Associates also celebrated 25 years of commitment.

More Active Than Ever, CATHII Celebrates 20 Years

The Comité d’action contre la traite humaine interne et internationale (CATHII)(Action committee against internal and international human trafficking) has passed the 20-year mark! Founded by a coalition of women’s Religious Congregations in Quebec, this organization has established itself as Canada’s benchmark on the thorny issue of human trafficking. This issue is the subject of a collective SNJM position paper.

The theme song of the 35th General Chapter of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), “The Call of Our Lives”, is featured on Robert Lebel’s latest album. The launch took place December 7 at Sanctuaire Marie-Reine des Cœurs in Montreal.

Robert Lebel in concert with Sr. Violaine Paradis, cnd.

As generous as ever, the singer, while performing several tracks from his new CD, let himself be carried away by the magic of the venue and the warm atmosphere.

During the presentation of the song associated with the SNJMs, Robert Lebel underlined the invaluable collaboration of Sr. Lorna Cooney. Among other things, he mentioned the extent to which the theme of the SNJM General Chapter in 2021 had touched and inspired him. “A unique call for a bold response”, he recounted, much to the delight of the dozen SNJM Sisters present at the launch. “That remark fueled our sense of pride,” confided Sr. Cooney.

Tribute to several saints, including Marie Rivier

The launch of Robert Lebel’s latest album was under the honorary presidency of Sister Angèle.

This event, mc’d by Sister Angèle, quickly evolved into a mini-concert. Between each piece, Robert Lebel explained the context and his sources of inspiration. This new album brings together songs commissioned by several Congregations and organizations. The CD includes lyrics and a brief description of each track.

The song Un évangile ouvert (An open gospel) recalls the challenge of Marie Rivier, foundress of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. “Be a source that always gives without drying up.”

The album also contains an ode to Kateri, the first Aboriginal saint to die at Kahnawake in 1680. Un cœur de compassion pays tribute to the spirit and words of another Quebec saint, Marguerite d’Youville, foundress of the Grey Nuns of Montreal.

To discover the many tracks on this new album recorded with the Chœur du Plateau and to find out more about Robert Lebel’s activities, visit his website (in French only).

Photos credit: Robert Lebel

Hope is the common thread running through the latest UNANIMA International (UI) newsletter. Despite the harsh facts about the state of our world, with its conflicts, extreme climatic phenomena and their disasters, Executive Director Jean Quinn, fdls, highlights the many real signs of hope in this year 2024, while echoing the prophetic words of Pope Francis “Christian hope… is very important, because it does not disappoint. Optimism disappoints, hope does not!…”

To nurture this hope, the publication highlights an event held in Frascati, Italy last October to launch a multi-faith, women-led climate action network.

The 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) attracted record attendance. The theme of the event’s, “Just like home”, underlined the importance of local action to meet the challenges of the lack of adequate housing, rising urban poverty and lack of access to basic services.

The 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) is also the subject of an article. We learn about the role of Liana Almony, the NGO’s deputy director, who participated in and co-sponsored parallel events.

There is also information regarding the objectives surrounding the 2025 World Social Summit, especially related to inclusion, social protection, education for all… And we learn about the recent virtual meeting of UI board members, which featured a presentation on a climate action movement given by its founder, Mary Robinson, Ireland’s first female president (1990-1997) and former United Nations High Commissioner.

The issue concludes with the presentation of two community testimonials that illustrate the diversity of commitments by religious Congregations around the world. These include the food program run by the Sisters of the Holy Union in Cameroon, and a testimonial by a survivor of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, who had been helped by the Religieuses de Jésus-Marie (RJM).