Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called women and men religious to strengthen unity within their communities and use their different gifts and experiences to make the mission of the Catholic Church more visible in today’s world.
In a video message marking the 70th anniversary of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious in the United States, Pope Leo offered his prayers and good wishes to participants attending the group’s 2026 Annual Assembly. The gathering brings together religious communities with different histories, missions and spiritual traditions.
Pope said that despite these differences, there is a strong need to build unity within and among religious institutes. He reminded those in consecrated life that every Christian has a role in building communion and serving the Church’s mission according to their particular gifts and ministries.
Pope Leo also highlighted the experience religious communities have in living and working together. He described religious women and men as people who can become experts in synodality because community life teaches them how to listen, discern and cooperate with one another.
He expressed hope that the Assembly would provide an opportunity for participants to listen carefully to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reflect on the future of consecrated life.
Reflecting on the Assembly theme, “Many Charisms, One Spirit, One Call,” Pope Leo praised the many spiritual gifts that have been given to religious communities throughout the history of the Church.
He thanked religious institutes for their contribution to evangelization, education and service to people who are poor and vulnerable. He said their different forms of consecrated life help reveal the richness of the Church and its mission.
Pope stressed that the Church needs the diversity represented by religious communities. Through their commitment to Jesus and their witness of faith, he said, religious people can help awaken a world that is increasingly affected by indifference and a sense of powerlessness.
Pope Leo urged them to respond to these challenges with Christ’s love and mercy. He said their lives can offer a powerful witness at a time when many people are searching for meaning, hope and a deeper sense of connection.
Pope also placed strong emphasis on young people and the importance of encouraging new religious vocations.
He acknowledged that the world is becoming increasingly secular, but said there continues to be a growing hunger for God. Many people, including young adults, are rediscovering their faith after periods of distance from the Church.
For this reason, Pope Leo said the relationship between religious women and young people is especially important. He encouraged religious communities to find new ways to introduce young people to their way of life and help them recognize God’s call in their own hearts.
He urged religious women and men to encourage young people to respond to that call with courage. Following God, he said, can bring a deep sense of joy and purpose.
Pope concluded his message by wishing the Assembly a fruitful and meaningful gathering. He assured the participants of his prayers and entrusted their work and their communities to the protection of Mary, asking that she intercede for them and guide their mission.
His message placed renewed attention on the important role of consecrated life in the Church, while encouraging religious communities to remain united, faithful to their charisms and open to the hopes and questions of a new generation.