Maryknoll Affiliates Acquire nonprofit 501(c)(3) Status

Looking ahead

On March 10, 2025, we received notice from NY Archdiocese (and USCCB) that we have been approved for 501(c)(3) status. The other three Maryknoll expressions have held this same status for many years.

 While the essence of the Affiliate Movement (the 4 Pillars, Maryknoll charism, commitment to each other, etc.) very much remains, this status presents NEW POSSIBILITIES for the Affiliate Movement as we go forward.

On practical levels, we now have our own bank account, new mailing & email addresses, and independence to, if ever needed, enter into contracts. We will, as needed, adapt structures and administrative areas.  Very soon we will reopen the process for receiving donations for our Movement and continued actions on behalf of those communities with whom we walk…to build expanding circles of compassion through our practice of the pillars of Spirituality, Global Vision, Community and Action.

On renewing our mission, we ask each of us to gather in our Chapters (or alternative groups) and reflect on what we might do - what new initiatives we might take to address a need in our communities, world or chapters that will bring a word of life (Life).  We recognize that most of us are older. While that has some limitations, it also offers the insight and credibility of lives well-lived.

If we as Maryknoll Affiliates are to remain a meaningful and vital (alive) community, this new status gives us an opportunity to renew our commitment. The present upheaval in the U.S. and throughout planet earth could really uses our voices at this moment.