Loreto News updates

A Circle of Friends in Mission: Leading with Faith Across Our Schools

In May 2025, Directors and Assistant Principals of Mission from all Loreto schools across Australia came together for an annual formation event that strengthens their leadership and deepens their shared commitment to bringing the Mary Ward charism to life. Facilitated by Loreto Ministries, this meeting is made possible thanks to the generosity of our school principals, who support this invaluable time for reflection, connection, and growth.

Vale Loreto Sisters Margaret, Mary and Elizabeth

Generations of remarkable women have followed in the footsteps of Gonzaga Barry and her companions who began the Loreto tradition in Australia 150 years ago. This year we farewelled three of those women, Sr Margaret Noone AM, Sr Mary Wright, and Sr Elizabeth Donnan. They each used their God-given gifts in service of others and inspired all who knew them. Their legacy of leadership, wisdom, and faith will continue to guide the Loreto community for generations to come.

A New Chapter of Leadership for Loreto Province

As the Loreto community mourns the recent passing of former Province Leader Sr Mary Wright ibvm, we also mark a moment of renewal with the appointment of Sr Wendy Hildebrand ibvm as the new Leader of the Province of Australia and South East Asia. Sr Wendy commenced a four-year term at the beginning of May, and is supported by Sr Mercia Richards ibvm and Sr Angela Slattery ibvm, who have joined her as full-time consultors in a new model of collaborative leadership.

120 Years of Loreto Spirit: Marryatville Celebrates Milestone and New Board Chair

In 2025, Loreto College Marryatville proudly celebrates a remarkable milestone – 120 years of educating and empowering young women in the Loreto tradition. From humble beginnings in Adelaide, with Mother Gonzaga Barry founding the school in 1905 with just five students, the journey continued with moves to a larger house, before finally settling at “The Acacias” in Marryatville in 1920.

An Unforgettable Encounter: Pope Francis in Timor Leste

As we honour the remarkable legacy of Pope Francis, we take a moment to reflect on his deep and enduring impact – not just through his writings, but through the deep connection he had with the community. His visit to the Loreto Province of Australia and South East Asia in Timor Leste last year is a testament to this.

The Final Months to Merger

After 416 years, all members of the Mary Ward Family are coming home! On November 4, 2025, all branches of The Institute will have merged for the greater glory of God and in fulfilment of Mary wards dream. The practicalities of the merger have been worked on for years and will continue to evolve as we grow together.

In Loving Memory of Sr Elizabeth Donnan ibvm

It is with great sadness that the Loreto Sisters of Australia and South East Asia announce the death of Sr Elizabeth Donnan ibvm. Elizabeth was a member of the South African province, who returned in recent weeks to the Victorian community. Whilst undergoing medical investigation at the Alfred Hospital, Elizabeth died unexpectedly in the early hours of Wednesday, 7 May.

After a career in education and formation within the order, Elizabeth responded to a call to serve the needs of the wider Institute and world, moving to South Africa, then Zambia. Here her creativity, practicality, resourcefulness, faith and belief in young people found new and vibrant expression.

In Loving Memory of Sr Margaret Noone ibvm AM

It is with great sadness that the Loreto Sisters of Australia and South East Asia announce the death of Sr Margaret Noone IBVM AM. Margaret was a member of the Victorian Community; she died peacefully on Friday 3rd January 2025 with many of our Sisters by her side.

Sr Margaret devoted her life to serving others, dedicating thirty years to various teaching, educational leadership and pastoral care roles across Australia. For over 40 years, Margaret was the heart and soul of Very Special Kids and after retiring in 2002, she remained very active in her role as patron.

In Loving Memory of Sr Mary Wright IBVM

It is with great sadness that the Loreto Sisters of Australia and South East Asia announce the death of Sr Mary Wright IBVM, former Province Leader and Institute Leader, on 29 March 2025.

Mary was a remarkable woman, known both nationally and internationally as an educator, leader, canon lawyer, writer, facilitator and board director. As a Loreto sister, she was at various times, Principal of Loreto Schools, Province Consultor, Province Bursar, Province Leader, Delegate to Chapters and Congregations, and Institute Leader.

ACRATH staff (pictured left to right): Christine, Melissa, Angela, Lys, Mary and Joseph in the ACRATH National Office in Albert Park.

Sr Mary Baulderstone ibvm retires after a decade of service with ACRATH

Sr Mary Baulderstone ibvm has retired after almost 10 years at the ACRATH National Office in Melbourne. The ACRATH team are grateful for her service and said Mary ‘kept the wheels turning with grace and good humour.’ Christine Carolan, outgoing ACRATH Executive Officer, praised Mary’s quiet strength and enduring contribution.