Pope Leo XIV Encourages Poor Clare Nuns

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

The pope stated that vocations arise from prayer, silence, familiarity with the Gospel, and a sense of belonging instead of through organized campaigns. He encouraged the nuns to prioritize ongoing formation and to live a cloistered life that fosters communion with the Church. He suggested that their silence could help a noisy society find the need to stop and reflect.