“Reaching out to the young and proclaiming the Gospel in the language of the time” was one of the key themes explored during WIF! 2025—a meeting of young Salvatorian Sisters from the European units. Held in Hungary on 4–9 July 2025, the gathering was hosted in a place deeply rooted in Salvatorian missionary history. This location allowed the participants not only to honor the legacy of the past but also to courageously look ahead. The central aim of the meeting was to strengthen the connection among young sisters and connect their vision with the fruits of the General Chapter 2024. Together, they explored what it means to live the Salvatorian mission in Europe—today and in the future.
Twenty-five members from various European units as well as sisters from other continents participated, accompanied by Sr. Brigitte Thalhammer, Sr. Suneela Polimetla, and Sr. Eloisa Holdiem from the Generalate. The meeting began with a moving historical narration by Sr. Erika Moser SDS, who shared the story of the Salvatorian presence in Hungary. Mr. Mattieu Daum, facilitator at the 22nd General Chapter and of this gathering, described the meeting as “filled with curiosity among participants—to understand one another, to listen, and to share their realities.”
The sisters worked in small groups—European and non-European (separately)—which created space for honest, open dialogue. They reflected on what gives them life and energy, the challenges they face, and the cultural shifts affecting religious life today. They underline what we find in the enactments of the 22nd General Chapter: “Diving into the new, we must not cling to the mental model, that ‘we have to continue everything’. We must not fill holes, without discerning where God wants us to be and work today”. The focus should not be on maintaining institutions, but on actively listening to the Spirit and responding to the signs of the times. The sisters expressed their wish for a truly synodal way of living—marked by shared discernment, participation, and co-responsibility. One clear insight that surfaced was: vocation promotion must serve the vocation of all, not simply aim to “find new members.” It should help people discern God’s call in their lives—whatever that may be. The young sisters expressed a deep desire to continue reaching out especially to young people and to proclaim the Gospel in the language of today, rooted in authenticity, vitality and faith. And at the same time maintaining a meaningful prayer life and a balanced relationships among sisters in the community life.
For the non-European participants, the meeting was also a helpful invitation to look at the European context and reflect on the future with hope and solidarity. Prayer and the Eucharist were highlighted as vital sources of strength and unity. A touching moment came during the life-sharing of Sr. Jean Schafer, whose story inspired the sisters to take initiative despite vulnerability—and to remain open to new horizons.The sisters also emphasized the need for ongoing formation, especially in navigating cultural differences and living interculturality with grace. Many shared the richness they have experienced through learning new languages, adapting to different environments, and embracing diverse cultures.
The participants also had the opportunity to discover the cultural and historical richness of Hungary. The visit to the cemetery in Máriabesnyő, where 163 Salvatorian Sisters are buried, left a lasting impression. It was a moment of silent gratitude and reverence for the missionary lives that came before. Sr. Verena Maria SDS described it as a “silent witness to a painful past.” The strong sense of bond and togetherness throughout the meeting left many participants longing for more such gatherings. Sr. Anthonysamy Jacqueline, reflecting on the experience, quoted Bl. Francis Jordan: “Fidelity in little things.” It is this fidelity, she said, that gives deep meaning to Salvatorian identity and universality.
The participants are hopeful that Holy Spirit will continue to guide them as they reflect and discover ways to witness the Salvatorian life responding to the needs of the time now and in the future. WIF! 2025 was more than a meeting—it was a step into the future, rooted in shared faith, courage, and commitment to witness the Salvatorian life in new and responsive ways.
