What is our Charism?

All people long to give their lives and hearts to something that really matters. For each Sister of Notre Dame, at some moment, that something became a Someone. The core of who we are as Sisters of Notre Dame lies in our deep relationship with God, who is both compassionate love and mystery. Our spiritual journey draws us into the unfolding and unfathomable mystery of God’s love. Our need to keep spiraling into God’s love is one with our desire for the transformation of the world. Called to participate in Jesus’ mission, we want to share with others what is deepest within our being: our experience of God’s goodness and provident care—the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame. We strive to be a healing presence in the world: women of God who have come to know Jesus and the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

One of the great joys of belonging to an international congregation is that our world is broken open as we learn the customs, ways of praying, insights and needs of our brothers and sisters throughout the world. One of the greatest joys and privileges I have had as a Superior was to visit our Sisters on many continents! Aside from many adventures and making lots of new friends, I learned that our ministries may differ and we may not all look alike, but the spirit of joyful simplicity and deep belief in the goodness and providence of God is the same in Africa, Brazil, Europe, the United States and everywhere in the Notre Dame world! As the mission of Jesus continues to give us new energy for the 21st century, we strive to be a healing presence in the world: women of God who have come to know God and the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Take a virtual tour of Notre Dame international at www.snd1.org. Enjoy!