What is F.M.W ?
Humanity is always in search of meaning of life. We all need a philosophy of life- a reason to live for, a cause to rally around, and a vision to spur us on. Friends of Mary Ward is a movement which is initiated for the well-wishers, friends, staff and students of Congregation of Jesus in Nepal with an intention of leading everyone to harmonious relationship with one’s own self, with God, with each other and with the whole creation. The movement puts before its members a way of life that invites them to optimum development of their human potential. It further invites them to become a blessing to their family and the society. It invites them to dedicate their lives to the love and service of God and others.
Identity
The Friends of Mary Ward is a group of like-minded individuals who are inspired by the vision of Mary Ward and have come together to answer a call experienced individually, and to express as a group a burning desire to serve God and others. Friends of Mary Ward aspires to work as an extension of C.J. family in keeping with the spirit and charism of Mary Ward which itself is founded on the tradition of Ignatian Spirituality.Name
Inspired by the vision and charism of Mary Ward and closely bound to the C.J. in Nepal this movement will be called the Friends of Mary Ward. For the sake of brevity, it is referred to as of F.M.W.Entry/Membership
The F.M.W. welcomes any like-minded individual who is inspired by the spirit of Mary Ward. Official membership begins with taking the solemn promise. The first year of members’ entry is a year of probation and training period for oneself as well as for F.M.W. The decision to allow a member’s official entry or even terminate membership will depend on a vote taken by the F.M.W. Council. A member who wishes to terminate membership may do so by making it formally known to the F.M.W. Council.Commitment
As Friends of Mary Ward, the members are called to answer the spiritual and human needs of the times. They are required to adopt a life of daily prayer to nurture spiritual growth. The members are also enjoined to fulfill their obligations and duties towards their existing state of life and simultaneously maintain amiable and cordial relations with those whom they live, work and pray, so that they may become “living examples- holy and pleasing to God.”
The Formula of Solemn Promise
Standing in the presence of my Creator and loving God, I ……(one by one they pronounce their name and continue) mindful that the real meaning of life is to love and serve God, mindful also that all are God’s children and my brothers and sisters, solemnly dedicate myself for one year to the service of God and my country.
I realize that it is an important and challenging undertaking and that if I rely only on my strength, I will not be able to carry it out. However, I place my confidence not in myself but in my God, who invites me to join hands with Him in healing this broken world. I know that he will give me the necessary help to persevere in my Promise. I resolve therefore as a member of the F.M.W., ………..(name of the unit) always everywhere to persevere in prayer, to follow my conscience in word and action, and to work generously for the material and spiritual welfare of myself and the others.
O loving God , give me strength to live up to this promise till the end of this year.
Name………. Place…………..
Signature……… Name……………
Just Soul
“God showed Mary a just soul in
Inexpressible beauty.
All the virtues seems to form in it,
As it were, a chain whereby it was not only cut
Off from everything earthly
But saw perfectly detached from self And united with God.
It also received true liberty of spirit,
Equanimity, heavenly wisdom
and ability to accomplish whatever
the perfection of the Institute Required.”
- Mary Ward
“…Young women and men are critical agents of change and will find in the new goals a platform to channel their infinite capacities for activism into the creation of a better world.”