“Friends of Mary Ward is not a club or an association; it is a way of life. We are extended members of the CJ family.”
Participants from various institutions of the Allahabad Province came together for three days of learning, reflection and collaborative growth.
The programme began with a meaningful prayer service, followed by a symbolic solemn procession carrying illuminated paper lanterns in which representatives from each institution offered their places of mission and entrusted the days ahead to the guiding light of the Spirit.
The keynote address by Sr. Shweta CJ, our Provincial Superior, rooted in the vision and values of Venerable Mary Ward, set the tone for the programme and invited participants to renew their commitment to the spirit and mission of FMW.
The sessions were conducted by Sr. Lissy CJ, Sr. Namita CJ and Sr. Jane CJ, who guided the participants through reflective and practical inputs that encouraged thoughtful leadership and responsible action.
The sessions guided the participants to reflect deeply on the identity of a Friend of Mary Ward, emphasising that FMW is not merely an organisation but a way of living inspired by faith, conscience and courageous service. Participants were encouraged to listen attentively to God’s call, discern purpose in their daily work, and recognise their mission as part of God’s larger plan.
Special focus was given to the virtues of Mary Ward and their relevance in contemporary educational and social contexts. Participants were challenged to be like salt to become agents of healing, preservation, integrity and positive influence in their families, classrooms and
institutions.
A dedicated session on conflict resolution introduced practical frameworks, including the Five Peace Steps and Mary Ward’s Conflict Response Model, enabling participants to respond constructively to challenges and to become instruments of peace in their communities.
Each day began with guided meditation and concluded with reflective evaluation. Group and plenary sessions, planning activities, role plays, a lively quiz on Mary Ward, and presentations by participating schools made the programme interactive and enriching. Recreational and team-building activities, including an evening of joyful fellowship around the bonfire, fostered bonding and renewed energy among the participants.
The three-day meet evolved into a shared journey of learning and inner renewal. The Friends of Mary Ward Meet 2026 concluded as a deeply meaningful experience that strengthened purpose, deepened commitment, and renewed the call to live the spirit of Mary Ward in everyday life.
Sr. Namita CJ, Allahabad Province
