By Liam Michael Quinn, Congregational Communications Manager, Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd

Over 100 contemplative sisters, apostolic sisters, and partners-in-mission gathered in St. Peter’s Square for a General Audience with Pope Leo XIV on November 5, 2025.

The Holy Father’s reflection on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ resonated deeply with the congregation’s historical roots and ongoing mission.

The theme of transformative renewal and new creation – central to the contemplative identity – was echoed in the Pope’s message.

“In the face of our fragile humanity, the resurrection of Christ becomes care and healing, nurturing hope amid the terrifying challenges that life presents to us each day, both personally and globally,” said the Pope.

Contemplative Sister Shirley Tomalá, a member of the Congregation’s Bicentenary Committee, spoke of how she felt “the call not to lose hope in the face of the challenges of today’s world, but to continue walking into the future with a heart that welcomes, heals, and dignifies”.

This contemplative heart is the spiritual heart of the Congregation’s mission, which is reconciliation. Their life of prayer and presence complements the apostolic work of the Congregation.

As the Bicentenary celebration draws to a close, the contemplative sisters say their mission and the call to live prayer and presence continue into the future with renewed vibrancy. Sister Joan Marie Lopez, Congregational Leader, spoke of her hope for the Bicentenary Year.

“I hope it rekindles in all of us a renewed openness to be shaped and made radiant by grace, so that together, as one Congregation, and, as one people of God we allow the fire of God’s love to warm, illumine and shine through us into the heart of the world,” she said.

Read an edited version of this article as published (in English) by Vatican News here and access more information and resources on the Bicentenary Jubilee here.