Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep gratitude to women religious across the world for their faithful and courageous service, praising the International Union of Superiors General (UISG) for bearing powerful witness to the Gospel at the frontiers of mission. His message was conveyed in a letter marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of the UISG, an organisation established on December 8, 1965.
Addressing the letter to Sister Oonah O’Shea, President of the UISG, the Pope recalled the vision of Saint Paul VI, who encouraged the renewal of consecrated life in the modern era following the Second Vatican Council. Pope Leo XIV acknowledged that this vision continues to bear fruit through the commitment of women religious who serve the Church and society in diverse and often challenging contexts.
“I join you in gratitude for the many ways in which the UISG has carried forward this mission,” the Pope wrote, thanking the members for living out their vocation “with fidelity and courage” over six decades of service.
Reflecting on the history of the UISG, the Pope highlighted its role in fostering dialogue and communion among Superiors General from all six continents. He noted that the union has provided a vital space for sharing the richness of different charisms and for discerning the gifts of the Holy Spirit, all for the good of both the Church and the wider world.
Pope Leo XIV observed that the current global context is marked by rapid transformation and pressing humanitarian and spiritual needs. In such a time, he said, the collaborative mission of women religious at the margins of society stands as a compelling testimony to the Gospel.
He noted with significance that the UISG’s anniversary coincides with the Jubilee Year of Hope, describing this convergence as “a particular grace.” In this sacred season, the Pope urged women religious to renew their calling as “pilgrims and missionary disciples of hope.”
He encouraged them to remain firmly rooted in their consecration, guided by the Holy Spirit, and committed to helping restore trust, heal wounds, and accompany God’s people with compassion and joyful perseverance. Such witness, he said, is essential for a world in need of reconciliation and hope.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo XIV entrusted all members of the UISG to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, whom he described as the perfect model of faithful discipleship.
In a statement marking the anniversary, UISG President Sister Oonah O’Shea reflected on the union’s journey and its evolving mission. “Sixty years ago, the UISG was founded to unite, to listen, and to build communion,” she said. “Today, we celebrate a history that continues to unfold, open to the future and attentive to new horizons.”
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Sister O’Shea announced the release of a new documentary titled “Consecrated Life, a Hope that Transforms.” The film traces the global journey of women’s religious congregations and presents the contemporary face of consecrated life through lived experiences across cultures and continents.
The anniversary celebrations, marked by reflection and renewed commitment, underline the enduring role of women religious as witnesses of hope, compassion, and Gospel values in a world searching for meaning and healing.