SSND Mission and Heritage

Our Mission is to proclaim the good news as School Sisters of Notre Dame, directing our entire lives toward that oneness for which Jesus Christ was sent. As He was sent to show the Father’s love to the world, we are sent to make Christ visible by our very being, by sharing our love, faith, and hope.”

-YOU ARE SENT, CONSTITUTION OF THE SCHOOL SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME

The School Sisters of Notre Dame are members of an international congregation of women religious which was founded in Bavaria in 1833. The first sisters arrived in North America in 1847. School Sisters of Notre Dame, now living and ministering on five continents, have their Generalate in Rome, Italy, and continue to “share in Christ’s mission to proclaim the good news of God’s reign.”

Delve deeper into our history on the wonderfull Sturdy Roots Website

Department of Ministry Services Statement of Purpose

To support the Atlantic-Midwest Province and its sponsored and co-sponsored ministries in ensuring that ministry

  1. reflects the values and commitments of SSND;
  2. maintains Catholic identity;
  3. aspires to high standards in service, administration, and management;
  4. creates pathways for sustainability in the future.

In particular, support happens by:

  1. Implementing and evolving lay leader ministry formation and board development in sponsored and co-sponsored ministries, province departments and continuum of care centers;
  2. Developing resources and offering consultation in support of a) above;
  3. Strengthening the relationship building and unity among SSND, ministries and people served;
  4. Supporting selected province initiatives and programs, and
  5. Supporting governance relationship with the sponsored ministries to align governance to current needs

Ministry Formation News

Claiming the Fire Within had a different feel this year, rescheduled from last year and taking place virtually due to ongoing safety concerns. Thirteen leaders courageously said “yes” to go on retreat, despite not being able to participate in person. The retreat featured online times to hear...
On March 5th and 6th, Ministry Services offered its second virtual Ministry Formation Session. The group explored St. Augustine’s life and his approach to leadership, the goals of community life, and humility as essential dimensions to leadership.
Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger and quotes
On October 23-24th, the Department of Ministry Services offered its first-ever virtual ministry formation session. Fourteen participants tuned in from Illinois, Missouri, Maryland, New York, Connecticut and Canada.  Participants ranged from executive directors, board chairs, department directors,...