Sister Carmen Ugarte García from the Oblate Sisters of the Most Holy Redeemer serves as Associate International Coordinator of Talitha Kum at the UISG office in Rome. Talitha Kum, the international network of consecrated life against human trafficking, brings together congregations from around the world, including the SNJM, which have been engaged in various ways in this effort since adopting their corporate stand on human trafficking in 2004.

1. In today’s global landscape, what makes Talitha Kum’s mission more vital than ever?

The crime of human trafficking is a global social phenomenon that currently affects more than 50 million people, especially women and girls, severely undermining their dignity and fundamental rights. It is not an isolated act, but the result of social, economic, and political systems that perpetuate inequality and the commodification of life and amplify the effects of climate change, armed conflicts, and wars.

Women and girls remain the most affected. In some regions, forced labor has surpassed sexual exploitation. Furthermore, the use of digital technologies for recruitment, online manipulation, and victim control is growing exponentially. The migration crisis leaves people highly vulnerable, and trafficking is on the rise, with a significant increase in child trafficking.

In this bleak context, the mission of Talitha Kum is vital. Our call to action is constant; it calls on all of us, because trafficking is closer than we think. For this reason, we raise our voices for a world free of trafficking and human exploitation, to denounce the commodification of life, and to affirm that there is hope for those at risk, victims, and survivors. Peace in our world is impossible as long as slavery exists.

2. What are the main challenges or systemic barriers that Talitha Kum currently faces?

Human trafficking is an ever-evolving crime, understood today as a “multiplier of vulnerabilities.” We face major challenges:

• Making the crime visible: In many parts of the world, trafficking and exploitation remain insufficiently recognized. It is essential to address the exploitative systems that trap people in situations of severe vulnerability, especially economic vulnerability.
• Lack of legal frameworks: The lack of structures that ensure protection and assistance to people at risk, victims, and survivors allows trafficking networks to operate freely.
• Challenges of the digital era: Technology has become a powerful means of recruitment, where anonymity and artificial intelligence facilitate large-scale manipulation. It is essential to raise awareness, especially among young people.

Raising our voices means denouncing the structures of exploitation. Talitha Kum is called to bear witness to compassion and hope. We live the Gospel in concrete, everyday ways, so that love, justice, and protection are present wherever we serve.

3. Reflecting on your journey so far, what milestones or achievements are you most proud of?

Officially, Talitha Kum has a 17-year history. According to our latest report, Talitha Kum comprises 64 networks in 108 countries, 841 religious congregations, and 6,043 active members. We have become a global network of compassion and transformation that transcends borders and languages.

Talitha Kum stands with those whose lives are under threat:

• In 2019, at our 10-year mark, we held our first General Assembly and launched our manifesto with three priorities: we denounce the power imbalance between men and women, we denounce the dominant model of unregulated neoliberal and capitalist development, and we denounce unjust or inadequate immigration laws.
• In 2021, in the midst of the pandemic, we launched our Call to Action to guarantee access to justice and psychosocial and health support for victims, the empowerment of women and girls, support for safe and legal migration pathways, and the promotion of an economy of care and solidarity.
• 

  2024 General Assembly / Credit : www.talithakum.info

  In 2024, at our second General Assembly, our final declaration focused on systemic change in response to new vulnerabilities, a holistic survivor-centered approach, and expanding collaboration and partnerships.

Being part of this commitment fills me with hope. Seeing the strength and consolidation of the Network, along with the involvement of young Talitha Kum ambassadors and other people, brings hope to those realities where life cries out for help.

4. How do you imagine the evolution and long-term impact of Talitha Kum in the coming years?

I imagine Talitha Kum as a global leader for systemic transformation in addressing human trafficking, further strengthening our mission, in which all of us can play a part in achieving the following:

1. Prevention: Promote education, awareness, and systemic change in response to new vulnerabilities, with particular attention to the involvement of youth.
2. Protection of victims and survivors: Provide compassionate support, defend dignity and access to justice and comprehensive support services, promote safe spaces, empower women and girls, and foster a culture and economy of care and solidarity.
3. Advocacy: Work toward systemic transformation, support safe and legal migration pathways, live justice as “love in action,” standing up with courage and hope to denounce, through our voices and daily actions, everything that fuels exploitation.
4. Networking: Expand collaboration and partnerships. Networking is a gift from God; it requires a clear mission, purposeful coordination, and strong communication channels.

Ultimately, I dream of a Talitha Kum network present across the world, continuing to write stories of hope and liberation, until the word “trafficking” becomes a thing of the past for every victim.

The World Water Day theme for 2026 may touch a little closer to home for many of us given the selected theme is “Water and Gender.” Information on the UN website as well as related resources put forward the fact that women, in many regions worldwide, are disadvantaged both in the access and use of water as well as in its management services. Some very interesting, even if, in some cases, disheartening, information is provided.
 
We invite you to read our newsletter as an entry point into this whole issue. And, knowing that bringing about significant change is complex, let us do what we can and let us all continue to pray that others with greater responsibility in the public arena will work to favor women in establishing policies that are both just and equitable.

The committee:
SNJM: Josephine Chudzik — MB | Yvonne Massicotte — MB
Associates: Sharon Elliott — U.S.-ON | Dorothy Guha — QC | Pat Iwata — U.S.-ON | Pat McCormick — U.S.-ON | Ken Still — U.S.-ON | Pamela Still — U.S.-ON

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El tema del Día Mundial del Agua de 2026 puede resultarnos a muchos de nosotros un poco más cercano, dado que el tema elegido es «El agua y el género». La información disponible en el sitio web de la ONU, así como otros recursos relacionados, ponen de manifiesto que, en muchas regiones del mundo, las mujeres se encuentran en desventaja tanto en el acceso y el uso del agua como en los servicios de gestión de la misma. Se ofrece información muy interesante, aunque, en algunos casos, desalentadora.

Os invitamos a leer nuestro boletín para familiarizaros con este tema. Y, sabiendo que es complicado introducir cambios importantes, hagamos lo que podamos y sigamos rezando para que las personas con mayor responsabilidad en la esfera pública se esfuercen por favorecer a las mujeres, aplicando políticas que sean a la vez justas y equitativas.

El comité:
SNJM: Josephine Chudzik – MB | Yvonne Massicotte – MB
Personas afiliadas: Sharon Elliott — EE.UU.-ON | Dorothy Guha — QC | Pat Iwata — EE.UU.-ON | Pat McCormick — EE.UU.-ON | Ken Still — EE.UU.-ON | Pamela Still — EE.UU.-ON

March 1, 2026

Public Statement on Iran

As Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, we speak at this critical hour with grief and urgency as violence escalates in the Middle East, including recent military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

We hear the cry of Iranians seeking justice and freedom in their land.

Each missile launched, each retaliatory strike, each expansion of armed force deepens the wounds of humanity. Civilians — children, elders, families — bear the heaviest burden. We affirm the sacred dignity of every human life.

As Catholic Sisters, we are rooted in the Gospel of Jesus, whose peace stands in stark contrast to the logic of war. In his first address to the Church, Pope Leo XIV described the peace of Christ as “disarming, humble, and persevering.” This peace does not arise from domination or retaliation. It is born of conversion of heart, courageous dialogue, and steadfast commitment to justice.

This is a time to call leaders to responsibility, restraint, and renewed diplomatic efforts. Military escalation risks widening the conflict and compounding human suffering. Lasting peace cannot be secured by weapons. It must be built through dialogue, mutual recognition, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.

As Sisters dedicated to the mission of proclaiming the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, we reject hatred, dehumanization, and violence as a means of resolving conflict. We call upon political leaders to:

• Pursue immediate de-escalation and restraint by all parties.
• Commit to diplomatic engagement grounded in international law and human rights.
• Prioritize the protection of civilians and humanitarian access.
• Seek long-term solutions rooted in justice and reconciliation.

We stand in solidarity with all who suffer. We pray for wisdom for world leaders, protection for civilians, courage for peacemakers, and comfort for the grieving.

In this time of uncertainty and fear, may we — and all people of goodwill — embody the persevering, humble, and disarming peace of Christ.

On January 20, 1976, SNJM Sister Geraldine MacNamara and a group of young men from Winnipeg’s Centennial neighbourhood founded Rossbrook House as an alternative to the streets. Their vision was to create a safe space for young people when other doors were closed. Sister Geraldine inspired all who walked through the open doors at 658 Ross Avenue, and although she passed away in 1984, her spirit remains forever a part of the legacy—and the future—of Rossbrook House.

While receiving the Order of Canada (1983) for her work founding Rossbrook House, Sister Geraldine articulated the guiding principle: “No child who does not want to be alone should ever have to be.”

She would have been the first to say that Rossbrook House was never her dream alone, but rather the dream and creation of the young people she met on the streets near her home in Winnipeg’s inner city in the early 1970s.

The operational philosophy, then and now, is based upon two fundamental principles: self-help and self-referral. Rossbrook staff are drawn from the community of regular attendees, allowing for a realistic understanding of the participants’ needs and aspirations. The hopes, dreams, and ideas of the youth are what determine the programs and direction of the centre.

You can learn more about Rossbrook House here: rossbrookhouse.ca

Read more about Rossbrook House in this article by the CBC: Winnipeg youth drop-in centre Rossbrook House a ‘home away from home’ for 50 years, executive director says

January 16, 2026

The SNJM Historic Congregational House Will Serve Generations to Come

LONGUEUIL, Quebec — Today, the Sisters and representatives of the City signed the deed of sale at the Congregational House of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary—an important milestone that ensures this historic site will continue to serve the public for generations to come.

Since 1844, the Congregational House has served as a beacon of education, culture, and service, reflecting the Sisters of Holy Names’ enduring mission. With the City’s acquisition, the property will now enter a new chapter dedicated to expanded community services, opportunities, and outreach, while honoring its rich heritage as a designated historical property.

“The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary look forward to the City’s vision and planning for this remarkable site,” said Sister Linda Haydock, congregational leader. “We are pleased that it will support community groups and remain a place of cultural importance, learning, gathering, and outreach.”

By entrusting their heritage site to the City of Longueuil, the SNJM Sisters believe it will remain a supportive community hub where the social, educational, and cultural traditions of the premises will be maintained and preserved beyond the life of the Congregation.

“As Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, it is our wish that our property continues to reflect our values for decades to come and that it be integrated into a project that enhances Longueuil’s historical and socio-cultural heritage,” stated Sister Denise Riel, provincial leader.

The successful agreement was made possible through the visionary leadership of Mayoress Catherine Fournier, a rigorous four-year study and strategic planning process, and the Sisters’ willingness to accommodate the city’s needs. Together, these efforts ensure that the buildings and grounds will continue to benefit the people of Greater Longueuil well into the future.

Supported by Bâtir son quartier, the partnership with the city was a shared commitment to preserving Longueuil’s heritage sites, while meeting the community’s evolving needs, thus transforming this historic site into a vibrant hub for community life.

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Alexandre K. Martin
450-651-8104 Ext. 1203
snjm@snjm.org

Mark your calendars! On September 6th, you’re invited to a special BAZAAR at the Sisters of the Holy Names convent, in Longueuil, where you can discover an abundance of unique items that have spanned eras and retained their original character.

This unique event is a rare chance to take home a piece of Quebec’s religious history. As part of Religious Heritage Days, the BAZAAR will feature a variety of activities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

• A sale of unique, second-hand furniture, decorations, and items from the community’s daily life;
• A silent auction, with final bids closing between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.;
• An exclusive religious heritage exhibit.

Don’t hesitate to share this with your friends and family! You can also find and share our official Facebook event by following this link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EKDypMa87/.

We can’t wait to see you there on September 6th!

Years ago, when we started to work on the safeguard of water, the first issue we addressed was that of “bottled water”. Several years have streamed by, so we thought to revisit this very important question. Though some progress has been made, serious concerns are still in play.
 
We need to continue educating on the impact of  bottled water and on the use of alternatives.

The Water-Ecology Committee is made up of sisters Josephine Chudzik (Manitoba) and Yvonne Massicotte (Manitoba) and the following SNJM affiliates: Sharon Elliott (U.S.-ON), Dorothy Guha (QC), Pat Iwata (US-Ontario), Pat McCormick (U.S.-ON), Ken Still (U.S.-ON), Pamela Still (U.S.-ON).

The newsletter is available in English, Spanish and French.

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Hace años, cuando empezamos a trabajar en la salvaguarda del agua, la primera cuestión que abordamos fue la del «agua embotellada». Han pasado varios años, así que hemos pensado en volver a examinar esta misma cuestión. Aunque se han hecho algunos progresos, sigue habiendo serias preocupaciones.

Tenemos que seguir educando sobre el impacto del «agua embotellada» y sobre el uso de alternativas.

El Comité de Agua y Ecología está formado por las hermanas Josephine Chudzik (Manitoba) e Yvonne Massicotte (Manitoba) y las personas afiliadas SNJM: Sharon Elliott (U.S.-ON), Dorothy Guha (QC), Pat Iwata (US-Ontario), Pat McCormick (U.S.-ON), Ken Still (U.S.-ON), Pamela Still (U.S.-ON).

Puede leer el boletín en español, inglés y francés.

March 6, 2025

Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary Urge Action to Protect Vulnerable Communities

Seattle, Washington – The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), an international order of Catholic Sisters, are calling on President Donald Trump and all elected officials to uphold policies that protect vulnerable populations both domestically and internationally.

In response to proposed cuts to USAID, the Sisters have contacted President Trump, emphasizing the devastating impact such reductions would have on communities like Lesotho, where Holy Names Sisters have provided essential medical services since 1931. The cuts would limit healthcare access for those most in need.

Furthermore, the Sisters are deeply concerned about policies that could harm marginalized groups in the United States, including the poor, elderly, and families struggling to obtain affordable housing. They urge the administration to prioritize compassionate policies that uphold the nation’s commitment to justice and humanitarian aid.

“We believe that caring for the most vulnerable is a moral obligation,” said Sister Linda Haydock, Congregational Leader of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. “We urge people of faith and goodwill to contact their elected officials and advocate for policies that reflect our nation’s values of compassion and justice.”

The Sisters encourage citizens to make their voices heard and to stand in solidarity with those in need.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Linda Haydock, SNJM
206-387-5490
lhaydock@snjm.org

or

Alexandre K. Martin
450-651-8104 Ext. 1203
snjm@snjm.org

The Water-Ecology Committee invites you to a reflection in preparation for World Toilet Day which has been held on November 19th since 2013.

Conflict, extreme weather events and disasters can destroy, damage or disrupt sanitation services. What happens when toilet systems don’t work – or don’t exist?… read more to better understand the situation.

The Water-Ecology Committee is made up of sisters Josephine Chudzik (Manitoba), Mary Annette Dworshak (U.S.-Ontario) and Yvonne Massicotte (Manitoba) and the following SNJM affiliates: Dorothy Guha (QC), Pat Iwata (US-Ontario) and Sharon Elliott (US-Ontario).

The newsletter is available in English, Spanish and French.

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El Comité Agua-Ecología le invita a una reflexión en preparación del Día Mundial del Retrete que se celebra el 19 de noviembre desde 2013.

Los conflictos, los fenómenos meteorológicos extremos y las catástrofes pueden destruir, dañar o interrumpir los servicios de saneamiento. ¿Qué ocurre cuando los sistemas de retretes no funcionan -o no existen?… lea más para comprender mejor la situación.

El Comité de Agua y Ecología está formado por las hermanas Josephine Chudzik (Manitoba), Mary Annette Dworshak (US-Ontario) e Yvonne Massicotte (Manitoba) y las personas afiliadas SNJM: Dorothy Guha (Qc), Pat Iwata (US-Ontario) y Sharon Elliott (US-Ontario).

Puede leer el boletín en español, inglés y francés.

In anticipation of World Water Day, to be held on March 22, the Water-Ecology Committee invites you to reflect on the theme “Water for Peace” chosen by the United Nations.

In an era of climate change and population growth, access to water is increasingly precarious, making this essential resource both a cause and a victim of conflict. So, could water otherwise help build peace? To better understand this issue, the committee invites you to consult articles and videos that will further deepen and guide your learning.

The Water-Ecology Committee is made up of sisters Josephine Chudzik (Manitoba), Mary Annette Dworshak (U.S.-Ontario) and Yvonne Massicotte (Manitoba) and the following SNJM affiliates: Dorothy Guha (QC), Pat Iwata (US-Ontario) and Sharon Elliott (US-Ontario).

The newsletter is available in English, Spanish and French.

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En vísperas del Día Mundial del Agua, que se celebrará el 22 de marzo, el Comité de Agua y Ecología le invita a reflexionar sobre el tema “Agua para la paz” propuesto por las Naciones Unidas.

En una época de cambio climático y crecimiento demográfico, el acceso al agua es cada vez más precario, lo que convierte a este recurso esencial en causa y víctima de conflictos. Entonces, ¿podría el agua ayudar a construir la paz? Para comprender mejor esta cuestión, la comisión le invita a consultar artículos y vídeos que le ayudarán a profundizar en el tema.

El Comité de Agua y Ecología está formado por las hermanas Josephine Chudzik (Manitoba), Mary Annette Dworshak (US-Ontario) e Yvonne Massicotte (Manitoba) y las personas afiliadas SNJM: Dorothy Guha (Qc), Pat Iwata (US-Ontario) y Sharon Elliott (US-Ontario).

Puede leer el boletín en español, inglés y francés.