We give thanks for the life of Sister Judi Morin, a woman whose faith was not simply something she professed, but something she lived every day through her unwavering commitment to others and her generosity of spirit.

 

As a member of the Sisters of Saint Anne, Sister Judi dedicated her life to serving those whom society often overlooks. In 1975, she became chaplain at William Head Institution, making history as the first woman appointed as a chaplain in a Canadian prison. Yet for Judi, the significance of that achievement was never about being first. It was about being present—offering compassion, dignity, and hope to people who desperately needed all three.

 

For the incarcerated men she served, Sister Judi created a sanctuary free of judgment. She looked beyond offences, labels, and past mistakes, seeing instead the inherent worth of every human being. She believed deeply that every soul carried dignity and deserved the opportunity for healing, reconciliation, and transformation. Her ministry was rooted in listening, understanding, and accompanying others on some of the most difficult journeys of their lives.

 

At St. Rose of Lima Church, Sister Judi served as co-pastor alongside Fr. Bill Mudge. Together they built a community where faith was expressed through action and where the Gospel’s call to love one’s neighbour was lived with authenticity and courage.

 

Their shared vision led to the founding of The Laren Society, which oversees the operation of the halfway house that has helped countless men transition from prison back into community life. Sister Judi’s commitment went far beyond administration or advocacy. For four years, she lived in the halfway house alongside men on day parole, sharing daily life, hearing their stories, and offering support, encouragement, and hope as they navigated the challenges of rebuilding their lives. She understood that true accompaniment requires presence, and she gave that presence generously.

 

Sister Judi’s life was defined by radical compassion and steadfast service to the marginalized. She was a passionate advocate for Restorative Justice and Nonviolent Communication, sharing these principles with everyone God placed in her path. She believed that healing begins when people are truly heard and that reconciliation is possible when we recognize our shared humanity.

 

Her generosity extended beyond her time and energy. Through her own financial contribution, she helped make possible the recent addition to Mudge House, ensuring that her commitment to hospitality, healing, and community will continue to bear fruit for years to come.

 

Those who knew Sister Judi will remember more than her accomplishments. They will remember her presence. They will remember her ability to listen without judgment, to encourage without conditions, and to love without reservation. They will remember the joy that radiated from her and the unmistakable warmth in her eyes. In her company, people felt seen, valued, and loved.

 

Sister Judi’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched: in the men who found hope when they thought there was none, in the communities she helped build, in the friendships she nurtured, and in the countless acts of kindness she inspired. Her example reminds us that faith is most powerful when it reaches toward those on the margins and that compassion has the power to transform lives.

 

May we honour her memory by carrying forward the values she cherished—dignity for every person, restorative justice, compassionate listening, and unconditional love.

 

May she rest in the peace she helped so many others find.

 

Well done, good and faithful servant. Her light continues to shine in all who were blessed to know her.

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See :Obituary of Sister Judi