An Enduring Legacy of Goodness
175 Years in New England: 1849-2024
A Legacy of Goodness Deeply Woven into the Fabric of New England
In 1849, amidst anti-Catholic sentiment, three pioneering Sisters from Belgium made the courageous journey to Boston via Ohio. Despite facing hostility and hardship, they remained steadfast in their mission. Dedicated to spreading God’s goodness through education and social justice, they established schools and provided nurture throughout New England. By 1900, their influence had grown to 32 schools, which continued to increase throughout the 20th century.
Today, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur are deeply woven into the fabric of New England, with their work extending beyond education to address broader social needs, including services for seniors, children and families. As the longest-serving religious congregation of women in the Archdiocese of Boston, their enduring legacy of goodness is a testament to their tireless efforts to enrich lives across the region
Reflections and Videos
- Notre Dame du Lac Worcester Liturgy
- Dorchester Liturgy
- St. Patrick’s Liturgy
- Sister Reflections:
Scenes from the 2024 Gala
On October 16, 2024, the celebration of the 175th anniversary of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in New England was a joyous and inspiring evening, bringing together over 300 sisters, families, faculty, staff and friends.
The event was one of many celebrations during the anniversary year that honored the Sisters’ rich history since their arrival in the Archdiocese of Boston in 1849. From their early days at Saint Mary’s in the North End of Boston, the Sisters faced discrimination and challenges, but their trust in God’s goodness was their guiding light and source of courage.
Their pioneering spirit led to the founding of nearly 100 schools and ministries throughout New England, showcasing their remarkable resilience that continues to impact the countless communities they serve.
Guests at the gala met students and faculty from our sponsored ministries, discovering firsthand how the Notre Dame charism and mission continue to thrive. The theme, “An Enduring Legacy of Goodness,” resonated profoundly, and all felt the energy during the reception and throughout the evening.
“The goodness of God is a key component of the Notre Dame charism – we proclaim it on the cross we wear; we seek to make God’s goodness visible
through our lives. And, during this anniversary time, we celebrate the legacy of God’s goodness that has endured for these 175 years. God will continue to love—and as we know and believe in the power of that love, extraordinary things will continue to be possible.”
— Sister Pat O’Brien, SNDdeN, a member of the U.S. East-West Leadership Team and the night’s emcee.
