Since 5 May 2025, 950 Superiors General from 90 countries on 5 continents and 75 nationalities have gathered in Rome for the International Assembly of Superiors General, held every 3 years. This year it was the 60th anniversary of the UISG (International Union of Superiors General), created in the wake of the Second Vatican Council.
The theme of this assembly was Consecrated life, a hope that transforms. Together, we contemplated the seeds of justice in our world, the sparks of light that shine in the night, the good and daring deeds stretched out like ropes to live fraternity, solidarity with the poorest but also between congregations.
How can we fail to give thanks for the breath of the Spirit that permeated our exchanges and meetings, an event strongly marked by the departure of Pope Francis and the expectation of his successor, but also by the Jubilee Year in which we are invited to be pilgrims of hope.
And then, on 8 May 2025, at 6.08pm, just as we had taken communion in the Body of Christ, the announcement of the election of the Pope broke the silence of meditation and let the joy of welcoming a new Pope burst forth and resound.
As soon as the white smoke announced his election, jubilation took hold of the people who converged in their thousands on St Peter’s Square in the Vatican, and we were no exception to the movement.
It’s an incredible crowd, a mixture of enthusiasm, joy, respect and impatient anticipation to find outhis name, to see and receive the first words and blessing of Leo XIV, Francis’ succe
This timeless event binds us together in a special way, creating a communion that transcends borders, sensitivities, beliefs and generations.
Even from a distance, a few hundred metres away in the Via della Conciliazione, we were in communion with those who were closest to us, but also with those who are thousands of kilometres away, behind their TV sets.
The call for a disarming, persevering and humble Peace at the very beginning of her address already invites us to unity and encourages all peoples to turn towards the light of Christ and not to be afraid.
On 9 May, the international assembly of Superiors General will conclude by passing through one of the 4 Holy Doors at the Basilica of St Mary Major. This was a fitting way to thank Pope Francis (who is buried here) for all that he has given to the Church and particularly to consecrated life during his 12-year pontificate.
We are witnesses to the Holy Spirit at work!
We wish Pope Leo XIV a wonderful mission, and pray for him to receive the graces he needs to fulfil his mission as a shepherd at the service of God’s people, as well as his role as Head of State in a broken but blessed world!
Sister Ann Almodovar, Superior General of the Congregation of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit.
Published on 9 May 2025
Photos
1. UISG Assembly
2. Participant kit
3. 60th anniversary cake
4. Mariola Lopez, theologian
5. 6. Group of major superiors.
7. En route to St Peter’s Square
8.9.10. Welcome by Pope Leo XIV
11. Holy Door, Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
12.Tomb of Pope Francis
