Making Known God’s Goodness
With a rich history of empowering communities, we advance education, social justice and spiritual growth, making God’s goodness known in the world.
For over two centuries, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur have lived out a calling rooted in faith, education and service to those most in need.
Inspired by the profound belief that God is good, we dedicate our lives to making this goodness known through community, prayer and unwavering commitment to justice and peace. Whether in classrooms, social ministries or the most abandoned places, we stand with people living in poverty, especially women and children, to create a more just and compassionate world.
Mission Statement
Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, women with hearts as wide as the world, make known God’s goodness and love with and among people living in poverty, through a Gospel way of life, community and prayer.
Continuing a strong educational tradition, we take our stand with people living in poverty, especially women and children, in the most abandoned places. Each of us commits her one and only life to work with others to create justice and peace for all.
Our Charism
The charism of a religious congregation is the unique spirit and spirituality that inspires and guides its mission. At the heart of Notre Dame de Namur spirituality is the profound belief of our foundress, St. Julie Billiart: “God is Good!”
This deep trust in God’s goodness shapes our lives, our service and our commitment to making known the boundless love of God in the world. All those in mission in the spirit of Notre Dame are called to proclaim the good news of God’s goodness through word and action.
Our Charism Across the Globe
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur serve in 16 countries across five continents. Click on the map below to learn more about our Congregation.
Our International Presence
International Governance
Congregational Leadership Team
Five Sisters of the Congregational Leadership Team (CLT) are responsible for the international governance of the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (SNDdeN). They work as a team in administering the religious congregation. One member holds the designation of Congregational Leader.
SNDdeN at the UN
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur hold Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status at the United Nations, allowing them to contribute to global discussions, share expertise and influence policymaking. Their consultative status with the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) strengthens their ability to advocate for justice, peace and the dignity of all people. Sister Isabelle Izika, SNDdeN of our Democratic Republic of Congo Province, serves as the Sisters’ leading representative at the United Nations.
In 2026, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of our UN NGO status.
Guided by Faith, Inspired by Service
Read more about the history of St. Julie Billiart.
The history of our Province and introducing our Leadership Team.
Get to know our Sisters and their commitment to make known God’s goodness.