One of the unique privileges of holding our General Chapter in Rome is the opportunity to meet and engage personally with key figures in the Church. It’s one thing to hear about the leaders of various dicasteries in the Roman Curia — but meeting them face-to-face, listening to their experiences, and dialoguing with them adds an entirely new depth to our understanding and connection.
This past week, we had the enriching experience of working through the draft of our Chapter document under the guidance of Sr. Tiziana Merletti, Secretary of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. The week concluded on a high note with an inspiring dialogue session led by Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication. Among the many insights he shared, one powerful takeaway stood out: if we truly want to bring about change in the digital world — this new “digital continent” — we must stay rooted in the Gospel. It is the Gospel, he reminded us, that has the power to transform hearts and societies.
This Monday morning brought yet another grace-filled moment. We were honored by the presence of Sr. Simona Brambilla, Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, and Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, its Pro-Prefect. After a concise but informative overview of the Dicastery’s mission and structure, the two engaged us in a lively and heartfelt conversation on the challenges and hopes surrounding consecrated life today.
The morning concluded beautifully with a Holy Mass presided over by Cardinal Artime, followed by a delicious meal lovingly prepared by our talented kitchen team — a real treat for both body and soul!
And the blessings continue: this evening, we’ll gather for a much-anticipated concert by Msgr. Marco Frisina and the choir of the Diocese of Rome. We look forward to this moment of sweet and solemn music to lift our spirits even higher.
As we now enter the crucial days of discernment for the election of our Superior General and her council, we ask for your continued prayers. Your support has carried us throughout this journey — and we are deeply grateful.
