Below is the reflection of Sr. Anne Carbon, Congregational Leader of the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban, written during her time in Rome.
It has been a profound privilege to represent our Congregation at the Union of International Superior General(UISG ) Plenary Assembly 2025 in Rome, held from May 2nd to 9th.
Being among nearly a thousand committed women religious leaders from Congregations across the globe—sharing stories, experiences, and hopes—was both inspiring and deeply renewing.
The 23rd UISG Plenary Assembly marked a significant moment in the life of the Church, especially as we celebrate the 60th anniverysary of its foundation and the Jubilee Year. Sr. Mary Barron, OLA made a special mention of Pope Francis, honoring his unwavering support and strength as a friend of UISG.
During our time together, we held a special collective intention: prayer for the Cardinals gathered in Conclave. In true Italian spirit, as a sign of gratitude for Pope Francis, we were invited to offer a heartfelt one-minute round of applause—a gesture filled with love and appreciation.
I was blessed to attend the Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, organized by the Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. The celebration was solemn and deeply moving. The readings and hymns lifted my whole being in prayer. I carried each one of you with me, offering your personal intentions.
I asked Pope Francis to intercede for us—that we may be strengthened in hope amid the challenges we face today.
I visited the tomb of Pope Francis at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. I moved silently in line with thousands of other pilgrims, passing through the Holy Door. It was a moment of grace—an experience difficult to put into words.
Arriving at the tomb, I was struck by its simplicity: just the single word ”Franciscus’ engraved. Yet within that simplicity lay a powerful message—an image of a man who lived with sincerity, humility, and compassion. Above the tomb, a focused light illuminated the cross, offering what felt like a personal call to renewal and a quiet reminder that God is enough-nothing more is needed.
Before Mass, while spending time in prayer, I could not help but to watch the steady movement of pilgrims moving through the Basilica. It reminded me of a flock of sheep searching for its Shepherd- each one seeking meaning, comfort, or perhaps just a moment of peace.
The Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Marc Ouellet. His homily resonated clearly with the legacy of Pope Francis – the call to love and respect one another, to place mercy at the centre of the life of the Church, and to care for all of creation. At the sign of peace, I witnessed something very moving – people genuinely smiling, reverently exchanging peace – each gesture carrying warmth and authenticity. For me, it was a moment that embodied everything Pope Francis called us to be.
The profound and thought-provoking stories and insights shared by the speakers during the Assembly were, for me, powerful signs of hope – hope that could truly transform our world, so often marked by division and conflict. As I listened to them, my thoughts wandered with quiet pride to our own centenary of missionary commitment among the people in our various mission countries.
I thought that it was very providential that our gathering took place during the Conclave. I saw the moment as a time of grace and hope for women’s religious life, as we united in prayer, with the whole Church, for the Cardinals who carried out the sacred task of electing the new Pope.
I experienced that, at this given time, religious women were united wholeheartedly as the Cardinals were gathered. We intensified our prayer.
Veni Sancte Spiritus……
Just after Holy Communion, at our closing mass the most awaited and historic moment took place- the white smoke appeared! A Pope is elected! Habemus Papam! The entire hall erupted with joy and emotion as we sang the mantra, Alleluia!
After the final blessing, we paused in gratitude to thank God for this incredible gift to the Church. Filled with excitement, everyone hurried to St. Peter’s Square to catch a glimpse of the new Pope! What was supposed to be a 20-minute drive turned into nearly an hour, as the roads were packed with people rushing to St. Peter’s Square. Almost everyone abandoned their cars and ran toward the square. Thousands had already gathered, making it difficult to get close. We had to rely on our phones for updates and to our surprise, we heard that Cardinal Provost had been elected! The American sister beside me exclaimed, “What? Oh boy! An American? I never expected him to be elected! But he’s a good man-and the right Pope for this time!”
Cheers and applause filled the air. When the newly elected Pope finally appeared, a thunderous roar spread through the crowd. It was a truly joyful and unforgettable moment watching an ocean of people from all walks of life united in celebration.
Hearing that the newly elected Pope is a religious, an American, and had been missioned in Peru—and that he was appointed by Pope Francis—convinced me that he is the right Pope for this challenging time in our Church and world.
I prayed for Pope Leo XIV, that the same Spirit who guided his election as the 267th Pope will bless him with wisdom, strength, and courage to faithfully carry out the mission entrusted to him.
My time here in Rome has been a sacred space of communion, reflection, renewal and shared hope among fellow leaders. I leave with a sense of gratitude and renewed sense of purpose as I continue the journey and embrace the tasks that lie ahead.
Anne Carbon
9th October 2025
Rome
