Mission is the Message

“I’m so fortunate to have found the same values in IBVM/CJ where justice, peace and integrity of creation are nurtured as part of one’s identity, being, formation and living.”

– Stefania Donaera –

Stefania Donaera is a woman from whom the values of Mary Ward truly radiate. Justice, human rights and social needs have been at the core of each personal and professional choice she has made throughout her life. Her 18 years’ experience working for NGOs and her interest in women’s rights has taken her across the globe, filming documentaries and generating awareness of issues such as forced marriage in Mozambique, women living off subsistence agriculture in North East Brazil, and acid survivors in Bangladesh.  

Now, we welcome Stefania to our global Mary Ward family in her role as Communications Officer of the new central CJ/IBVM communications office in Rome.

It is hoped that the establishment of the new office will contribute to highlighting the good news of the gospel, our Mary Ward charism and spirituality, our passion for justice and the care of our “common home”, by connecting our mission, our networks, our communities and our stories. 

When asked about her vision for union, Stefania reflected back to Mary Ward, a woman born into a world of turbulence, yet who accomplished so much throughout her life. “The nature of the women who followed her example made CJ and IBVM so big and spread all around the world. In these few weeks I have seen so much abundance, passion and dedication, so much diversity in deep common roots. Finding ways to share these resources will only make the network stronger and more effective in carrying out its mission in today’s world.” 

In a globalised world, effective communication is a necessity. Stefania wishes to establish consistency in messaging and conveyance, working closely with those Provinces which need extra support, helping them create their own communication tools and use them effectively to spread the vision and mission of Mary Ward.  

Stefania, you have already shown us your dedication and capability, embracing this role at a time where the world is consumed with such ambiguity. We thank you for the knowledge you bring, the depth of experience, and the warm and genuine nature you exude. You are so very welcome. 

Author: Anna Turkington

Gallery Images: Stefania in Cameroon filming one of her many documentaries, Stefania in Pakistan, Children from the documentary ‘Girls’ Club’