Pope Leo XIV to Poor Clare Nuns: Lack of Vocations Should Renew Your Commitment

Pope Leo XIV told a delegation of Poor Clare nuns that a decline in vocations should serve as a reason to renew their spiritual commitment rather than cause hopelessness. During a private audience with members of the Federation of Capuchin Poor Clare Nuns of Italy on Sept. 21, the pope addressed the shrinking number of communities and the potential loss of autonomy facing the order and the Church in Italy.

The pope said the nuns should not let these changes deprive them of hope but should instead use the situation to refresh their way of life and increase their spiritual support for those seeking to join their monasteries. He stated that vocations arise from prayer, silence, familiarity with the Gospel, a sense of belonging, and accepting one's own imperfections rather than through organized campaigns.

Leo XIV encouraged the nuns to prioritize ongoing formation and to maintain a cloistered life characterized by deep communion with the Church. He noted that their silence can help a noisy and hurried society find the necessary space to stop, reflect, and discern.