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SNJM Core Values

Interior of the Holy Names Chapel with pews

 

Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary

The Sisters are dedicated to the full development of the human person
through education, social justice, contemplation and the arts.

Holy Names Academy was founded in 1880 by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), an international congregation of Catholic Women Religious, Associates, and Lay Consecrated who are dedicated to the full development of the human person through education, social justice, contemplation, and the arts. The SNJM congregational headquarters is located in Longueuil, Québec (near Montréal).

The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) were founded by Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher. A woman of hope, Blessed Marie Rose inspired her Sisters with caring hospitality, a discerning heart, and a faith deeply rooted in God’s love. She promoted an education in the faith rooted in the Gospel and a special concern for those who are poor and marginalized.

Congregational websites:

English Language

French Language

The SNJM United States/Ontario Province headquarters is located in Marylhurst, Oregon. Learn more on the  US/Ontario Province website.

An SNJM Education

As a member of the SNJM Network of Schools, Holy Names Academy is united with schools throughout the US and Canada that share a common Catholic faith tradition and commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and the holistic development of each student. Rooted in the charism and mission of the Sisters of the Holy Names, we believe that an exceptional education inspires students to think critically, act with courage, advocate for justice, and contribute to building a more just, peaceful, and compassionate society.

For nearly 150 years, Holy Names Academy has remained dedicated to creating a supportive community where young women are challenged to excel, encouraged to lead, and empowered to rise.

SNJM Network of Schools

Holy Names Academy in Seattle is one of seven schools in the United States and Canada sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). These SNJM Network of Schools, individually and collaboratively, continue the founding spirit of the sisters and their foundress, Blessed Marie Rose Durocher.

SNJM Schools
Exterior photo of Holy Names Academy's main school entrance

SNJM Core Values

Our school is deeply committed to the core values of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. These values form the foundation of our educational philosophy and guide our interactions within the Holy Names Academy community:

education in the faith

We create an atmosphere that invites people to live,
develop, and express their faith.

Full Development of the Human Person

We cultivate and respect the talents, abilities, and potential of each individual, fostering growth in all aspects of life.

Dedication to Justice

We commit our time, energy, and resources to the pursuit of right relationships based on equality, justice, and solidarity.
 

Commitment to Liberating Action

We seek with others the freedom needed to live life
fully without oppression.

Dedication to Women and Children

We see, understand, and respond to the unique needs
of women and children.

Service to People Who are Poor or Marginalized

We reach out and respond to those who are impoverished, abandoned, or living on the fringes of society.

Love for the Names of Jesus and Mary

We embrace Jesus and Mary as a guide, inspiration,
and source of strength in our lives.

Hospitality

We are a gracious, accepting, and welcoming presence for
each person in our community.

Blessed Marie Rose Durocher
Foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary

A young woman in a blue dress with glasses smells a pink rose in the foreground, with a hazy landscape of water and mountains in the background.

Sisters Vow Renewal
Each Year, Sisters and Associates renew their SNJM vows

Five elderly women holding lit candles and papers stand in the foreground before a congregation seated in a church with stained glass windows in the background.