Foundress
Mary Ward, an intrepid
Yorkshire woman, was born on 23rd January 1585 in Mulwith, North Yorkshire, England. She was born at a time of great tension in the Church in England. She died on 30th January 1645 aged 60 years in Heworth, York, England, having established a number of convents around the world.
Mary Ward was declared Venerable by Pope Benedict XVI on 19th December 2009; this is the first of three steps on the path to being declared a saint. Her influence was felt throughout Europe and within the City of York which lasts to this day. She advocated for the care of faith for all people, but especially for the youth.
Mary Ward valued many virtues but her four main cardinal virtues were; FREEDOM, SINCERITY, JUSTICE and JOY.