At Novendiales Mass, Pope Francis Remembered for His Deep Trust in Women Religious
At Novendiales Mass, Pope Francis Remembered for His Deep Trust in Women Religious At the eighth Mass of the Novendiales, held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 in St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome in memory of our beloved Pope Francis, the Church gathered once more to honor a shepherd who led not with might, but with mercy — a humble and compassionate pastor whose heart beat in rhythm with the suffering and the marginalized. As Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles, we were especially moved to witness our own Sister, Sr. Mary Barron, OLA, our Congregational Leader and President of the International Union of Superiors General, present a deep reflection during this sacred liturgy. Her words gave voice to the deep gratitude felt by women religious everywhere, capturing in speech what many hold in their hearts. Sister Mary reminded us that Pope Francis consistently believed in the power and vocation of women religious. He didn’t just affirm our presence in the Church; he entrusted us with mission, calling us forth into the world and among all of God’s creation to be instruments of healing and companions for those most in need. “He reminded us again and again of the importance of embracing our frailty not as a limitation but as a source of grace,” she said. It was Pope Francis who invited us to see our vulnerability through the lens of the Gospel — not something to overcome, but something through which God’s tenderness can shine. Last year, in a gesture that [...]
