Leone XIV, la vita monastica guarda alla missione e all'ascolto

Pope Leo XIV encouraged the Federation of Monache Clarisse Cappuccine d’Italia to renew their spiritual lives and focus on missionary work during an audience on the morning of September 21, 2026.

Addressing the decline in vocations and the shrinking number of religious communities, the Pope said these challenges should not cause fear or a loss of hope. Instead, he suggested that the reduction in numbers should drive a renewal of community life and a stronger commitment to providing spiritual accompaniment to those seeking to enter monasteries. He urged the members to build joyful, authentic communities centered on intimacy with God and communion.

The Pope stated that even within a cloistered charism, permanent formation and missionary spirit are necessary. He described the monastic mission as living the Gospel by detaching from worldly things to remain focused on God through simplicity, obedience, and transparency. He noted that such a radical lifestyle serves as a sign of faithfulness in a restless, globalized world. To live out their charism fully, he identified mutual listening and communion as essential means.