The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate have been facing a decline in the number of Sisters and the advancing age of their members. This has necessitated that steps be taken, with the understanding of Most Rev. Stephen Chmilar, Eparch of Toronto and Eastern Canada, to ensure that their property in Ancaster is safeguarded as a Catholic entity.
The willingness of the Diocese of Hamilton to purchase their property provides an opportunity where the Eastern and Western Churches meet and cooperate. The Sisters are grateful that the Diocese is committed to carry on the ministry of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, and that it will continue to operate under the name of Mount Mary Immaculate Retreat Centre. Although the property itself and the programming will be operated by the Diocese, the Eparchy is assured that its programs will be continued.
The Sisters will continue to reside at Mount Mary and will be assisting in its programming, specifically involving Ukrainian Catholic retreats and the Annual Marian Pilgrimage.
Sister Christina Syrotynsky, SSMI, Provincial Superior, asks for on–going prayerful support, that the Sisters continue to serve the Church as they are most able at this time.