Pope Francis Recognizes, Blesses Conference And Attendees

Pope Francis sent a letter of greeting, recognition and blessing to the inaugural Women in the Church Conference. Copies were distributed during the Oct. 7-9 event, which was organized by the Benedictine Sisters of Ferdinand and St. Meinrad Archabbey.

“I was pleased to learn of the Leadership Conference, Women of the Church, to be convened in Ferdinand, Indiana, from 7 to 9 October 2016, and I ask you kindly to convey my warm greetings and cordial good wishes to all those taking part in these days of study, reflection and prayer,” the Holy Father wrote.

He quoted from his Apostolic Exhortation, “Evangelii Gaudium,” and from the homily he delivered during his Sept. 24, 2015, Mass at New York’s St. Patrick Cathedral during his apostolic visit to Cuba and America.

“To all of you I express my gratitude and encouragement, together with my prayers that the Conference will contribute to a balanced discernment of how women’s manifold gifts can be used most fruitfully to advance the Church’s mission, for the greater glory of God and the growth of the people in faith, hope and love,” he added.

“Invoking upon all assembled for the Leadership Conference the Holy Spirit’s gifts of wisdom and good counsel,” Pope Francis concluded, “and with the assurance of my union in prayer, I send my blessing as a pledge of joy and peace in the Lord.”