About the Sisters News
Recording of the symposium exploring women religious in climate action, featuring Sister Dorothy Stang's enduring legacy in ecological justice. Distinguished speakers from the Pontifical Gregorian University and global religious communities discuss Catholic social teaching, environmental stewardship, and faith-based climate advocacy. Concludes with historic Vespers service installing Sr. Dorothy's relic at Basilica San Bartolomeo.
Sister Rebeca Spires, SNDdeN, cherishes Sister Dorothy Stang’s sweater, which accompanies her story of courage and love for the Amazon’s people and land. Worn during the trials of Dorothy’s assassins, this second relic symbolizes her enduring mission for justice and peace. Learn more about her legacy.
This reflection, written by Sister Judith Clemens, SNDdeN, for the January 5, 2025 Relic Prayer, honors the life and legacy of Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN. It explores the enduring light of her martyrdom and her deep connection to the Beatitudes. As blood-soaked soil from the site of her sacrifice is sent to Rome, we are reminded of her steadfast dedication to God's favored ones: the poor, the meek, the merciful, and the peacemakers. Dorothy’s life challenges us to embrace God’s blessings, walk alongside the marginalized, and continue her journey of love and justice.
Join us for a LIVE stream of a prayer service as we commission the reliquary of Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN, on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. EST from the Mount Notre Dame Chapel in Cincinnati, Ohio. This sacred event prepares the relic for induction into the Sanctuary of New Martyrs at the Basilica di San Bartolomeo all’Isola. During the service, those traveling to Rome, including Ohio Province leaders, students, and family members, will receive a blessing for safe travels.
Learn how the Ohio and Nigerian Associates of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur connected across continents for Nigeria’s First National Convention of Associates. Explore their shared mission, discussions on self-care, prayer, and community, and the global bonds of faith and service.
The film Duas Vidas e Uma só Causa ("Two Lives, One Cause") tells the intertwined stories of Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN, and Dorothy Day, focusing on their shared commitment to justice and care for marginalized communities. Highlighting their dedication to environmental stewardship, human rights, and advocacy, the film explores how each woman left a lasting legacy of courage and compassion. Both Dorothys inspire viewers to reflect on the importance of living with purpose and actively working towards a more just and peaceful world.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur ask for prayers for the repose of the soul of Sister Mary Adele White, SNDdeN, who passed away on December 25, 2024.
Sister Dorothy Stang, a Dayton native and member of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, was tragically murdered in 2005 while advocating for the Amazon rainforest and its communities. To honor her legacy, a relic containing blood-soaked soil from the site of her martyrdom will be enshrined at the Basilica di San Bartolomeo all'Isola in Rome. This ceremony, scheduled for January 10, 2025, will recognize her as the first American woman honored in the Sanctuary of the New Martyrs.
A relic from Sister Dorothy Stang's death site will be displayed in Rome's Sanctuary of New Martyrs early 20 years after her murder. A Dayton native and member of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Sister Dorothy was an advocate for Amazon preservation and social justice. Soil from her murder site and a sweater tied to her legacy will be inducted following a prayer service in Cincinnati on January 5. Her courage and commitment continue to inspire. This was reported by WDTN Channel 2.
Mount Notre Dame High School students, faculty, and alumni will travel to Rome to honor Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN, on the 20th anniversary of her martyrdom. A relic of her blood-stained soil will be installed at the Basilica of San Bartolomeo, inspiring students to carry forward her legacy of faith, courage, and social justice. Read the full article in the Catholic Telegraph January 2025 Edition.
Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in Ohio recently filled a reliquary with blood-soaked soil from the site of the murder of Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN. Set to be installed in a Sanctuary of the New Martyrs in Rome, the relic represents the life and sacrifice of the missionary to Brazil who gave her life for her faith. Stang will be honored by the Community of Sant'Egidio in Rome, Italy, on January 10, 2025, at the Basilica di San Bartolomeo all'Isola one month before the 20th anniversary of her martyrdom.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur invite you to join our next Live The Good opportunity. In alignment with the Dorothy Stang Initiative and the Sisters’ commitment to reducing the use of plastics, we will be writing letters to several local and national stores asking them to provide eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic bags. This opportunity will be held at the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur Ohio Province have signed the Advent Not Arms letter, calling for peace in the Middle East through a suspension of arms sales to Israel, a ceasefire, and urgent humanitarian aid for Gaza. Organized by Churches for Middle East Peace, this letter reflects the Advent season's hope for justice, peace, and the sacredness of all life. Read the full letter and join us in prayer and action for peace.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur ask for prayers for the repose of the soul of Sister Mary Bridget Murphy, SNDdeN, who passed away on December 7, 2024.
Check out the latest blog from Holly Schlaack, director of volunteer engagement, as she shares a heartwarming story about Sr. Betty Ann Zengel’s visit to a horse farm.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur hosted an event exploring the insights of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, Jesuit priest, scientist, and spiritual writer. Teilhard’s vision of the Eucharist integrates evolution and faith, calling us to see God in creation and our shared journey toward unity.
Explore prayerful reflection, advocacy, and education in this call to action inspired by Rev. Steven Charleston. Learn how to respond to pressing legislative concerns like the Energy Permitting Reform Act, Ohio's HB 451, and federal nonprofit policies. Discover community efforts for positive change, environmental justice, social justice, indigenous rights, climate action, and nonprofit advocacy.
Reflect on the spirit of Christmas and its call to be Christ-centered by putting others first. Explore how the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur live this call daily through sacrifice, service, and love, bringing Christ into the world. Join us in making every day Christmas through faith and action.
Discover a heartfelt prayer celebrating God's grace and creation, paired with autumn wisdom on preserving insect habitats. Learn how small changes in fall yard care can protect pollinators and native species while fostering balance in nature. Actionable tips included.
Watch the recording of "The Eco-Spirituality of Teilhard de Chardin" with Dr. Sue Sack, a theologian and expert in eco-spirituality. This event, held on November 9, 2024, is the second in our Dorothy Stang Initiative series for the Laudato Si' Platform. The session explores Teilhard de Chardin’s vision of creation, the role of the Eucharist within the cosmos, and our shared journey toward the "Omega Point." Dr. Sack offers insights into Teilhard's life and teachings, with practical reflections on how we can live out eco-spirituality in daily life.
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur ask for prayers for the repose of the soul of Sister Paula Marie Becker, SNDdeN, who passed away on November 1, 2024.
Duas Vidas e Uma Só Causa ("Two Lives, One Cause") tells the powerful, interconnected stories of Sister Dorothy Stang, SNDdeN, and Dorothy Day, highlighting their shared dedication to justice, environmental stewardship, and advocacy for marginalized communities. This documentary, adapted and subtitled with permission from Tatiana Polastri, inspires viewers to reflect on the impact of living with purpose. In honor of Sister Dorothy’s 20 years of service and sacrifice, we invite you to share how she has touched your life. Please send your reflections to [email protected].
As we approach Election Day and settle into the season’s shift with Eastern Standard Time, we’re drawn to Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel: “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” In the midst of change and uncertainty, these words call us back to the two great commandments—love of God and love of neighbor. May we listen deeply and carry this message into our lives, moving closer to the kingdom through love, understanding, and action. Written by Sister Colette Didier, SNDdeN, and shared at Mount Notre Dame chapel, this reflection comes with the Sisters' prayers for all during this time.
Discover insights from Dr. Matthew Goldberg's recent UC Center for Public Engagement with Science talk on climate change action, emphasizing the power of personal connections, focused priorities, and thoughtful conversations. Learn how discussing climate concerns within our communities can drive understanding and collective action, plus small steps we can each take to make a lasting difference.