The members of UISG worldwide join with the Loreto Sisters of Australia and South-East Asia and with all Loreto sisters as they mourn the recent death of Sr. Mary Wright IBVM.

Mary was a former Province Leader and served as Institute Leader from 1998-2006. Over many decades, Mary shared her gifts in different contexts and continents as an educator, leader, canon lawyer, writer, facilitator and board director.

In 1987 Mary pursued a doctorate in canon law at the University of St Paul in Ottawa. At the completion of her study, she practised as a canon lawyer in Australia and Rome, serving at the Vatican Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. Her service in the Congregation included involvement with developing Public Juridic Persons, especially in the USA, Canada and Australia.

On hearing of her death, many past and present Superiors General have sent messages of sympathy and remembered Mary’s generous guidance and assistance as they updated Constitutions, restructured their congregations or sought help with canonical matters. 

Having completed her time in Rome, Mary returned to Australia, from where she continued to work, both nationally and internationally. She came to UISG regularly as a member of a team of canonists who offer workshops and canonical advice periodically, especially before and during Plenary Assemblies.  

Mary’s recent months were marked by illness, which she faced with remarkable grace and quiet dignity. She died peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of expertise, wisdom, generosity, and deep grounded faith. We give thanks for her life of dedicated service and for her immense contribution to consecrated life, within her own Institute but especially at a global level. 

Well done good and faithful servant……….May you rest in God’s peace.