Who is Mary Ward?

Mary Ward, born on January 23, 1585, in Yorkshire, England, entered a world of religious strife and persecution. Raised in a devout Catholic family, she witnessed the challenges faced by Roman Catholics during a turbulent period in English history. Her early years were marked by adversity, including the burning of her family home in 1595 during anti-Catholic riots. Yet, amidst the turmoil, Mary's faith remained steadfast, and she exhibited signs of devotion from a young age, her first uttered word being "Jesus."

At the age of fifteen, Mary felt a profound calling to religious life. In 1599, she moved to the household of Sir Ralph Babthorpe at Osgodby, Selby, where her spiritual journey took a significant turn. It was there that Mary felt the stirrings of her vocation deepening, leading her to embrace the path of religious commitment.

In 1606, Mary entered a monastery of Poor Clares in Saint-Omer, northern France, before relocating to Spanish Flanders the following year. Despite her initial dedication to the contemplative life, Mary soon realized that her calling diverged from traditional cloistered norms. She felt compelled to engage in active ministry, a departure considered unconventional at the time.

In 1607, Mary founded a new monastery of the Order for English women in Gravelines, France, reflecting her desire to forge a new path for women's religious life. However, her vision extended beyond the confines of cloistered walls. She envisioned a community of women empowered to serve the Church in roles traditionally reserved for men, akin to the Society of Jesus.

In 1609, Mary established a religious community in Saint-Omer, France, with a focus on education and service. This marked the beginning of her lifelong mission to empower women and challenge entrenched norms within the Church. Despite facing opposition and criticism, Mary's community flourished, opening schools for girls and embracing a vision of active ministry.

Mary's revolutionary approach to religious life faced resistance from conservative quarters of the Church. Her ideas, which included freedom from enclosure, choir obligations, and wearing religious habits, challenged long-standing traditions. However, Mary remained undeterred, driven by a deep sense of purpose and conviction in her calling.

In 1630, Mary's community faced suppression, yet her vision endured. She continued to advocate for women's empowerment and religious reform, guided by a steadfast belief in God's will. Her tireless efforts to advance women's roles within the Church paved the way for future generations of women in religious life.

At the express desire of Pope Urban, Mary journeyed to Rome, where she sought to garner support for her vision and protect her community under the supervision of the Holy See. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including imprisonment and opposition from Church authorities, Mary remained resolute in her mission.

In 1639, Mary returned to England, establishing herself in London before journeying northward to Heworth, near York, in 1642. There, she established a convent, continuing her work despite the dangers posed by the Cromwellian Civil War.

Mary Ward's unwavering commitment to her vision of women's empowerment and religious reform left a lasting legacy. Her teachings emphasized the importance of fearlessly following God's will, even in the face of adversity. Today, Mary's vision continues to inspire countless individuals, reminding us of the transformative power of faith and courage.

On January 30, 1645, Mary Ward passed away, leaving behind a legacy of vision and courage. Her burial, attended by Anglicans despite the persecution of Roman Catholics at the time, reflected the widespread admiration and reverence she garnered during her lifetime.

Mary Ward's life serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the transformative impact of one woman's vision. Her tireless efforts to advance women's roles within the Church continue to resonate today, inspiring future generations to pursue God's calling with courage and conviction.