Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Monday offered a heartfelt tribute to women religious, praising their courage, fidelity, and service to the Church. Addressing consecrated women gathered for their General Chapters and a delegation of Discalced Carmelite Sisters from the Holy Land, the Pope underlined the enduring relevance of women who dedicate their lives to God and reminded them that the world continues to need “generous women.”
In his reflection, Pope Leo drew inspiration from a verse in the Book of Proverbs: “Who can find a valiant woman? Her price is far greater than pearls.” He linked this wisdom to the history of female religious congregations, recalling the extraordinary women who first responded to God’s call and courageously established paths of holiness. These pioneers, he said, lived out the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, at times enduring persecution and even martyrdom.
The Pope emphasized that the fidelity of religious women does not come from human strength but from Christ Himself. Rooted in asceticism, prayer, devotion to the Sacraments, and intimacy with God’s Word, their witness sustains both the contemplative and active dimensions of consecrated life. “In a world often centered on materialism and self-interest,” he said, “your works demonstrate the strength that comes from God and the relevance of consecrated life in today’s society.”
Pope Leo encouraged the sisters to remain humble, drawing their strength from God alone, so as to return that grace through service in daily life. He noted that their presence continues a rich legacy left by their founders: Regina Protmann of the Sisters of Saint Catherine, Marie Gertrude of the Precious Blood of the Salesian Missionaries, Marie-Anne de Tilly and Father Louis Chauvet of the Sisters of Saint Paul of Chartres, as well as Saint Teresa of Avila and the hermits of Mount Carmel.
“These women were intimately united with God, consecrated to His service and the good of the Church,” the Pope reminded them. “That legacy is now entrusted to you. Indeed, in our day, too, there is a need for generous women.”
Before concluding, Pope Leo singled out the Discalced Carmelite Sisters of the Holy Land, whose cloistered lives of prayer and sacrifice take place amid some of the world’s most volatile regions. He praised their “watchful and silent presence in places sadly torn apart by hatred and violence,” describing their commitment as a powerful testimony of abandonment to God and a source of hope for peace.
“We all accompany you with our prayers,” he assured them. “Through your dedication, we, too, draw close to those who suffer.”
Pope Leo XIV’s address resonated as both a recognition of women religious and a broader message for the Church and society. In highlighting their courage, humility, and fidelity, the Pope reminded the world that it is precisely the spirit of generous women that offers healing, service, and witness in times of crisis.