Main Stream: Holy Names

The charism of the SNJM is centered on “liberating life through education and the promotion of justice” by fostering the full development of the human person in light of the Gospel. Rooted in the primacy of God’s love, their spirituality emphasizes education as a liberating force, solidarity with the poor and marginalized, hospitality, and a commitment to justice and the dignity of every human being. Through prayer, community life, and active ministry, SNJM sisters seek to empower others, especially women and children, to develop their God-given gifts for personal flourishing and social transformation.

The congregation was founded in 1843 in Longueuil, Québec (Canada) by Eulalie Durocher (Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher) in response to the urgent pastoral need for education of girls and care for the poor. From its inception, the SNJM combined deep faith with practical service: establishing schools, academies, and community programs that integrated academic formation with moral and spiritual growth. Over the decades, the Sisters expanded internationally, including to the United States, Lesotho (since 1931), and parts of South America, always upholding Blessed Marie-Rose’s vision of education as a tool of liberation and justice. Their mission now also embraces social justice advocacy, arts, and programs that encourage systemic change in society while remaining faithful to their founding inspiration.

snjm.lesotho@gmail.com (Lesotho Province vocation office)