For Immediate Release
October 1, 2025
Sisters of Notre Dame Celebrate 175 Years Around the World
On October 1,1850, Sisters Maria Aloysia and Maria Ignatia answered God’s call to serve in Coesfeld, Germany. When political suppression in Germany forced the sisters to leave, they followed German refugees to America and beyond, continuing their ministries and extending their reach. 175 years later, their mission has spread to 17 countries worldwide. This adaptability has been a key factor in the congregation’s ability to serve globally, unbound by any one country or culture, and responsive to the needs of the time.
The Sisters of Notre Dame join the Church in celebrating a Jubilee year with the theme “Pilgrims of Gratitude and Hope.” SND gives thanks for God’s blessings, the sisters before them, partners in mission, and all who they have served. SND is filled with hope, believing that God continues to call women and bless them with the SND charism.
Sisters and their collaborators are celebrating this milestone anniversary around the world in many ways such as:
- Dedicating 175 hours of service in each region or province around the world. SND Associates, alumni, and other affiliated groups help serve alongside the sisters in these initiatives.
- Composition and sharing of an anniversary anthem that has been shared in multiple languages in the USA, Europe, Brazil, India, Africa, and Asia!
- Planting 175 Trees around the world in honor of 175 years.
- Sharing messages of hope for young people today. In the United States, 79 sisters participated in a video series, released on social media and posted on the SNDUSA website.
The sisters’ growth has been guided by a belief in God’s providence and a dedication to meeting the needs of each generation. The congregation’s ability to move with the changing circumstances of the world has been essential to its success and longevity. Just like the many sisters who have served before them, sisters today bring service, education and compassion to whoever and wherever they minister, making an impact for all they serve.
For More Information
View Messages of Hope from 79 Sisters of Notre Dame in the United States: https://sndusa.org/messages-of-hope-celebrating-175-years/
Learn more about the 175th Celebration: https://sndusa.org/175years/
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About the Sisters of Notre Dame
Sisters of Notre Dame are united in one heart, one hope, and one mission to proclaim God’s goodness and compassionate love for people of all faiths and cultures through a variety of ministries, both national and international, particularly serving those who are poor and marginalized. In the United States, there are regional administrative centers in Chardon, Ohio, Covington, Kentucky, Thousand Oaks, California, and Toledo, Ohio. Today there are approximately 450 sisters and 500 lay associates in the United States.