A Visionary Leader Who Helped Shape the Renewal of the SNJM
On August 9, 1971, Sister Marthe Lacroix (Alida-Marie) began her ministry as Superior General of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), a position she held until 1976.
A respected educator, Sister Marthe had previously served on the Gosselin Commission, established in 1970 to reflect on the future of the Congregation. The commission examined the reorientation of the Congregation’s ministries and the adaptation of its mission in response to the changes inspired by the Second Vatican Council. Convinced of the important role of women in both society and the Church, she helped advance this reflection throughout her term as Superior General.
Following the completion of her mandate, Sister Marthe became Director of the Marie-Rose Centre (MRC), where she devoted herself wholeheartedly to promoting the cause for the beatification of Mother Marie-Rose Durocher. Her dedication bore fruit when the SNJM Foundress was beatified by Pope John Paul II on May 23, 1982. Sister Marthe continued this mission at the Marie-Rose Centre until 1992 and remained a faithful witness to her Congregation’s legacy until her passing on August 8, 1999.
To learn more about the inspiring journey of this dedicated woman who helped shape the history of the Congregation, we invite you to read the biography written by Sister Simone Perras, SNJM.