Congregatio Jesu
The Congregatio Jesu is a congregation of women religious sisters, founded by the Englishwoman Mary Ward in 1609.
Since 4 November 2025, the two branches of Mary Ward’s Institute are officially and legally One. IBVM and CJ shape their future together as Congregatio Jesu.
Merger of the Congregatio Jesu and IBVM
On 4 November 2025, members of the Congregatio Jesu and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM) marked the formal union of their congregations in Loyola, Spain, the birthplace of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.
Following this merger, approximately 1,800 sisters across more than 40 countries now form a single, unified congregation. Their shared heritage is rooted in the vision of their common foundress, Mary Ward.
Mary Ward in the early 17th century, and later Teresa Ball in the 19th century, responded to the urgent need for the education of girls at a time when such opportunities were limited or unavailable. Their commitment to education continues today through a global network of Mary Ward schools and colleges. These include early years settings, primary and secondary schools, and higher education institutions in both Catholic and state sectors.
Mary Ward educational establishments are centres of learning that aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum. Alongside academic study, they promote personal development, strong relationships, and opportunities for spiritual growth. A wide range of co-curricular activities supports students’ wider interests and talents.
In working with young people, these schools seek to develop confident and responsible individuals who can contribute positively to society. The values associated with Mary Ward’s educational vision continue to inform the formation of students, staff and families. Themes such as justice, peace, and care for the environment are actively promoted, alongside opportunities for global awareness and engagement.
Loreto schools provide a Catholic education that supports students to develop their individual strengths and encourages them to use these with confidence, creativity and generosity in service to others.
Today the IBVM Sisters minister on 5 continents in 24 countries (see map above and list below). Our administrative centre is at Casa Loreto in Rome, Italy. Altogether there are:
• 70,000 Loreto students worldwide
• 3,500 teachers in Loreto schools
• 1,400 support staff employed in Loreto schools
• 119 Loreto schools in 12 countries on 6 continents:
Europe – Albania, Gibraltar, Italy, Ireland, Spain, United Kingdom
Australasia – Australia
Africa – Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Zambia, Mauritius, Seychelles
North America – Canada, United States
South America – Ecuador, Peru
Asia – Bangladesh, East Timor, India, Nepal