Becoming One: Congregatio Jesu and IBVM Merge into One Congregation
Rome, 4 November 2025
Following prayer, reflection and engagement of members, the two congregations of apostolic women religious, Congregatio Jesu (CJ) and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM- Loreto) merged today. The merged Congregatio Jesu, approximately 1,800 sisters worldwide, will continue to honour the legacy and charism of its foundress Venerable Mary Ward.
The merger of the two congregations became a canonical and legal reality at 12:00 PM CET (Rome time) on 4 November 2025.
The merger decree was publicly proclaimed at a special Mass in Loyola, Spain, which was presided over by the General Superior of the Jesuits, Fr. Arturo Sosa SJ.
“We are very happy that we can finally fulfill Mary Ward’s dream of a united congregation of women religious with the same constitutions as those of the Society of Jesus”, states Sr Veronica Fuhrmann CJ, General Superior of Congregatio Jesu. “Throughout history, but especially during the last years, we have journeyed in close connection. We share the same charism, the same values and the same understanding of mission. Union of minds and hearts, which Saint Ignatius has so aptly described and held in the highest esteem, is the bond that deeply connects us. Seeing this union now realised not only in sisterly and spiritual but also in canonical and legal terms fills us all with great joy and deep gratitude.”
“In a fractured world, our members have freely chosen to become one congregation as a witness to Christ’s gospel message of peace and harmony. We have listened to the promptings of the Spirit and embark on this journey with renewed missionary zeal”, says Sr Carmel Swords CJ, former Institute leader of the IBVM. “We believe that together we are stronger. We move forward filled with gratitude and a desire to serve God’s people in freedom and joy.”
The merger Mass on 4 November 2025 will be followed by a symposium on 5 November 2025. Both events will be livestreamed on the congregation’s YouTube channel
The recording of both events will be available at: www.congregatiojesu.org
Author: Congregatio Jesu Media Release
Published 4 November 2025