Pope Leo has expressed gratitude for “the longstanding contributions” of religious institutions, highlighting their work in “evangelisation, education, and caring for the poor and marginalised”. Source: EWTN News.
“All Christians are called to be builders of Christʼs communion, formed in a synodal Church in which everyone cooperates in the same mission according to their own charism and ministry,” he said in a message for the United States’ Leadership Conference of Women Religious’ 70th anniversary celebration being held in Orlando, Florida, this week.
“In a special way, those in religious life are called to become experts in synodality due to the opportunities afforded by community life to practice it, as well as the very way that your congregations are organised,” he said.
The celebration, part of the group’s 2026 annual assembly, brings together women religious from Canada, the United States, and Latin America to foster fellowship and honour decades of ministry.
“Even though you come from communities with different histories and apostolates, it is important to remember the need to foster unity within and among your institutes as well as in the broader Church,” the Pope said.
Pope Leo further highlighted synodality in his message, sharing he “was pleased to learn that the assemblyʼs proceedings will include a synodal method of listening, discussion, and discernment, with an openness and a willingness to understand what others are saying.”
He expressed his gratitude for “the long-standing contributions” of religious institutions, highlighting their work in “the fields of evangelisation, education, and caring for the poor and marginalised.”
“The Church needs you and all of the diversity and richness of the forms of consecration and ministry that you represent, for with your vitality and the witness of a life centred on Jesus, you can contribute to waking up the world,” he said.
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Pope Leo XIV: Women and men in religious life ‘are called to become experts in synodality’ (By Tessa Gervasini, EWTN News)
