#HOPE2025 – Global Sisterhood Gathering Rome

Opening Ceremony (left to right) Sr Karen, Sr Maria del Carmen, Sr Florencia, Sr Pulane.

In June, the Leadership Collaborative hosted HOPE 2025, a transformative hybrid gathering in Rome that brought together over 300 Sisters under the age of 65 from around the world. This event, held at Fraterna Domus Sacrofano Retreat Centre, was designed to explore the current and emerging realities of religious life and to concretely experience the gift of global sisterhood to connect, celebrate and lead together.

Our gathering commenced with a symbolic opening ritual where Sisters Florencia, Pulane and Karen presented ribbons of fabric from the south, west, east (others sisters from north), wrapping them around a globe to signify the unity and diversity of the global sisterhood. This act set the tone for a week dedicated to deepening connections across cultures and congregations.

Dance Party with Gen Verde

A highlight of the first full day was a session led by the Focolare music group Gen Verde. Through storytelling and music, they facilitated a powerful and moving experience that celebrated cultural diversity and the shared mission of the sisters.

Throughout the week, the themes of lamentation, leadership and connection wove through our gatherings. Sisters shared their experiences, stories, wisdom, and insights, fostering sacred moments of connection around round tables and in shared spaces.

Botswana Sisters

One particularly poignant moment came with a Sister of Calvary, Botswana, approached Sisters Florencia, Maria del Camen and Karen in the coffee line. With deep emotion, she expressed, “I carry a spark of you within me.” Speaking with heartfelt gratitude, recalling how the presence of our sisters who responded openly to the Bishop’s invitation, planted the seeds that would one day grow into the Sisters of Calvary. Her words honoured the profound influence and enduring legacy of our Sisters, a connection that continues to live within each of her sisters, beyond words. This moment served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of our sisters’ faithful response, and the quiet, sacred ways their mission continues to bear fruit across generations and continents.

Another significant moment was the opportunity for our four sisters to engage in deep conversation with each other, supported by another fellow sister who provided translation. This allowed for an authentic exchange of realities, dreams, and experiences, further strengthening the bonds of global sisterhood.

Together at the Sistine Chapel

HOPE 2025 was more than a conference; it was a pilgrimage of hope, aligning with the broader theme of the Jubilee Year 2025 as “Pilgrims of Hope’. The event underscored the transformative power of relationships and the collective capacity of women religious to lead with compassion and inspire hope in the world.

As reflections and articles from the gathering continue to emerge, they offer further insights into the experiences and learnings of each sister. The sisters extend their gratitude to all who supported and encouraged them, acknowledging the vital role of community in nurturing and deepening global sisterhood.

Sr Emily joining online along with other sisters from around the world.

St Peters Square, Vatican City

We got the whole world in our hands.