In a private audience on Monday, November 13, Pope Francis spoke to the School Sisters of Notre Dame on the occasion of their 25^th General Chapter.

Pope Francis: “Dear sisters, I thank you for your visit. May the Holy Spirit grant you his gifts in abundance, so that the deliberations and decisions of the Chapter may bear much fruit in the life of your community. And there will be fruit if you know how to listen. May the Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, protect you, help you and be your safe guide on your journey. I heartily bless you and all your sisters scattered throughout the world. How many are they? How many sisters? [They answer: “1,900”] 1,900? Say hello to them all! 1,900 kisses. I heartily bless you and all your sisters, and I ask you, please, to pray for me, because I need it.”

Text of complete message of Pope Francis: Italiano – English – Español (pdf 18 KB)

From Vatican News:

Pope thanks School Sisters of Notre Dame for ‘making Christ visible’

Pope Francis welcomes the School Sisters of Notre Dame on the occasion of their 25th General Chapter, and thanks them for making Christ visible by their presence, faith, hope and charity. Read article on Vatican News.