Pope Francis addresses Communio Internationalis Benedictinarum Symposium

In brief

Pope Francis addressed representatives of the global monastic community during the Communio Internationalis Benedictinarum Symposium on September 12, 2026. The Pope greeted the Benedictine sisters and brothers, noting that the group works to continue the coordination and communion for the Benedictine Confederation originally started by Pope Leo XIII and later supported by the Second Vatican Council.

The Pope described the work of the group as a way to advance the Benedictine charism through spiritual synodality. He noted that this approach treats the uniqueness of every person as a treasure for the whole community. In his remarks, he also referenced Saint Benedict, speaking of the importance of having a heart expanded by the sweetness of love to serve as a herald of grace.