“Pas-Si di Speranza” (Steps of Hope):

Where there is hope, there is God, and where there is God, everything can be reborn.

“Saints like Philip Neri, Don Bosco, and Bl. Francis Jordan have shown the world the wonders brought forth when the potential of young minds is nurtured by those who instill values, morals, love, and spiritual growth. The summer camp organized every year by the Salvatorian sisters in the South Italian province of Porrino has been for the past 10 years a nest where such wonders took wings to fly. Here, pure joy, alongside deeply embedded values and morals, took root in the minds and hearts of the many summer camp children and young animators who contributed to the success of this camp. The children in this camp play, dance, sing, draw, jump and run but above all they learn to care for the other, praise God and respect the elders. Below is a wonderful note left by one of the animators from this group about the camp.”

Every year, the Salvatorian sisters of Porrino, together with us animators, organize a summer camp with love and dedication that guides us, step by step, toward a deeper encounter with God. This year, on the occasion of the Jubilee Year, we chose as our theme “Pas-Si di Speranza” (Steps of Hope), because we wanted to highlight the “Yes” that each of us has chosen to say to the Lord: a full, sincere, confident Yes.

The camp was divided into days of reflection, play, and sharing, lived with intensity and joy. A nice new feature this year was the swimming pool: two afternoons a week we met there, where even the water became an opportunity for fraternity.

The first week was intense: we had to get back into the rhythm, both for us animators and for the children, who were divided into four groups according to the class they attended (from kindergarten to middle school). Our mornings began with simple and cheerful group dances, suitable even for the youngest children, to warm our hearts and prepare us for the day ahead.

Afterwards, we gathered in the shade to enter into the theme of the day, listening, reflecting, and then working in small groups. Each group had a value to represent:

– The kindergarten children brought peace,

– the 2nd and 3rd graders dedicated themselves to love,

– the 4th and 5th graders to truth,

– and the middle school group to freedom.

Every day, the children carefully prepared a creative project to present to the others. It was an exciting moment because their inner beauty, commitment, and faith could be seen in those small works. At the end of the presentations, Sister Silva Jaku SDS awarded points to the groups: a healthy game that culminated in the announcement of the winning group during the final recital.

On Fridays, if the week had been lived with enthusiasm and respect, the long-awaited moment of water balloons arrived: a real water party, especially for us animators, who always ended up soaked but happy!

In the last week, the atmosphere became a little more nostalgic. Every year seems to pass more and more quickly, and the children, although tired, sense that something special is about to end. In the afternoon, we animators stayed in the convent to prepare for the performance on July 21: a precious date, when we remember the beatification of Blessed Francis Mary of the Cross Jordan, founder of the Salvatorian Sisters.

Each group enthusiastically set about making colorful posters, skits, dances, and much more, to offer their parents a small gift made with love. We animators also prepared a skit with a deep spiritual meaning: in the dim light of a room, four candles—Love, Peace, Faith, and Hope—were extinguished one by one, blown out by the disappointment of the world. But in the end, Hope, still lit, rekindled all the others with its light: because where there is hope, there is God, and where there is God, everything can be reborn.

To end the evening on a cheerful note, we changed into traditional Ciociaria costumes and, with the accordion and a reworked folk song, we recounted the entire campus adventure in a playful and affectionate way.

And so, another year has come to an end. A tear runs down our faces, but our hearts are full: we know that we will meet again, because what is born in the light of love and the joy of faith never ends.

On to other initiatives, with ever more confident steps… on the paths of Hope.

“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 22^nd 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.

The African Continental Meeting 2025, a significant event that truly showcased the congregational body of the Salvatorian Sisters in Africa, took place in Masasi, Tanzania, from July 5–11, 2025. It was the first international gathering organized by the current Generalate team under the leadership of Sr. Maria Yaneth, who also served as the meeting’s facilitator alongside Sr. Jacqueline Mwakasu Kona, Vicar General, and Sr. Ellen Sinclair, General Councillor. The Tanzanian Unit guided by Sr. Yasinta Godfrey Kalla graciously hosted the event.

A total of 28 members from the units of Congo, Mozambique, Tanzania, Angola, and Nairobi actively participated in the week-long meeting. As shared by the Sisters, the gathering began in a prayerful and joyful spirit, marked by great enthusiasm. In her welcoming remarks, Sr. Maria Yaneth invited the sisters to greet each other with the words: “I welcome you, I give you space, and we walk together.” These words set the tone for the days ahead—days filled with a deep sense of unity, discernment, and a renewed Salvatorian spirit, as they walked together in faith to discern the paths for the mission in Africa.

The meeting was marked by profound prayer, attentive listening, and respectful dialogue—core elements of the Salvatorian life in Africa. Through deep communal discernment, the sisters experienced what it means to walk, work, and decide together as one congregational body, all while seeking the will of God.

Key Topics Discussed During the Meeting:

• Sharing and exchanging experiences on Synodal Leadership and Interculturality
• Evaluation, discussion, and discernment concerning ongoing joint projects (including Nairobi, Angola, the Common Novitiate, Perpetual Vows Preparation, and Jubilee Celebrations)
• Sharing insights and experiences on Intercultural Formation

Each day of the meeting was well-organized, with every unit contributing by leading the opening prayers in an authentic and meaningful way. The gathering was also uplifted by vibrant traditional dances that added joy and cultural richness to the experience.

The spirit of unity was strongly felt throughout the meeting. Sr. Astrid, Regional Superior of the Congo Unit, expressed her joy by saying, “I am very happy to participate in this African Continental Meeting. It is a very important moment for me to be together with my fellow Salvatorian Sisters—to learn and grow through our shared communion.” Sr. Maria Marlene from the Mozambique Unit echoed a similar sentiment: “This continental meeting has helped me to deepen my understanding of one another, and especially to grow in my understanding of interculturality.” The spirit of synodality was not limited to the Salvatorian Sisters alone. The Salvatorian Fathers and Brothers have collaborated and supported greatly for the success of the meeting.

A joyful highlight of the gathering was the celebration of Sr. Ellen Sinclair’s birthday. She enjoyed a heartfelt celebration organized by the Tanzanian novices, featuring special and spectacular programs. The participants also had a chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of Africa during an outing to the Bridge of Unity and the scenic rock mountains. They were further blessed by the warm hospitality of the Salvatorian Fathers at Mangaka Parish and the company of Bro. Macha, SDS, who accompanied them on the journey.

The meeting concluded with a symbolic and heartfelt gesture. The three African unit leaders Sr. Yasinta Godfrey Kalla, Sr. Astrid, and Sr. Maria Marlene lit a fire together, which was then shared with all the sisters by Sr. Maria Yaneth as a parting gift—a powerful symbol of the light and hope they carry forward. Farewells were exchanged with the blessing words of Bl. Francis Jordan.

We hope that the participants, now renewed and full of hope after the African Continental Meeting 2025, will continue to radiate the same spirit and enthusiasm, sharing with their fellow sisters in their respective units the fruits of this transformative encounter.

Pope Francis, whose life and teachings shocked, moved, and changed the world globally, has left behind something for every single person who met him. His simple lifestyle, which stepped out of many protocols, is admirable and unforgettable. The news of 90,000 people flocking to Saint Peter’s Basilica to pay homage to the resting Pope in a single day is not astonishing because such was his love for his flock—a global flock, not just Christians but everyone, all-inclusive and universal.

The Salvatorian family of laypeople, fathers, and sisters also feels the pinch of his loss at this troubling moment in our history. As the roar of war gets louder in our society, the Salvatorian family looks for new and renewed ways to be part of the peace movement called out by Pope Francis. Remembering and mourning the loss of this prophet of peace, Sr. Maria Yaneth Moreno has called out to all its members for prayer and thanksgiving for our beloved Pope. The Salvatorian family will gratefully remember Franciscus, who bestowed three remarkable gifts upon them.

1. Pope Francis approved and beatified our dear founder, Bl. Francis Jordan, on May 15, 2021. In a video during the thanksgiving year for the beatification of Bl. Jordan, he lovingly addressed all Salvatorian family members and encouraged them not to be afraid to be apostles beyond borders.

2. Under Pope Franciscus’ leadership, the Lay Salvatorian members received official papal recognition as the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life recognized them as an International Association of the Faithful.

3. The Sisters of the Divine Savior received a private audience with him during their 22nd General Chapter. On this occasion, Pope Franciscus jokingly asked Sr. Maria Yaneth if they had any vocations from Europe. In his message on the same day, he told the Salvatorian Sisters to be like Maria, who was a polar star that directs everyone towards Jesus and not oneself.

The Salvatorian sisters had many other opportunities to meet and talk to Pope Franciscus because he was so simple that it was not difficult to approach him. For example, Sr. Gabriela Lemma, the former provincial superior of the Italian Salvatorian sisters, wrote a letter to him regarding the situation of their school in Sheildi, Albania. Surprisingly, they received a reply from Pope Francis himself. It is impossible to put into words how the Salvatorian family will miss our dear Franciscus.

Let us pray and continue to put into practise the teachings of Pope Franciscus.

The most loved “people’s Pope”, this is how Pope Francis is dearly called by the media. He was simple human yet courageous who didn’t hesistate to address the unspoken issues, who laughs and cries, shares light moments with those around him. Francis has resonated with people worldwide with his deep humility and faith-focused presence for the people, especially the poor. The first non european pope in centuries he has won millions of hearts of the world wide Christians and non believers, not to mention first from the Jesuit order, a historic point of tension with the Holy See, Francis has broken expectations and has reimagined the papacy.

He has been both the face of appreciation and the contraverse. His papacy is characterized by a line of bold, humanitarian actions that drew the admiration of some like visiting Lampedusa, Italy, a place where illegal migrants land up in europe, the washing of the feet of the women. Through his convening of the Synod on the Amazon, he addressed the environmental crisis and indigenous peoples’ rights with urgency. And his gesture of haggoating the feet of South Sudan’s leaders, pleading for them to embrace peace, was a touching plea for reconciliation. Also, his choice to live in the Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse rather than the lavish papal apartments shows his desire to be humble and available to all.

Born in Buenos Aires, Airgentina on December 17, 1936 as the eldest of the five children from Mario José Bergoglio and Regina María Sívori. Inspired by the Jesuit order, he was ordained a priest in 1969. His leadership qualities were evident early on, serving as Jesuit provincial superior from 1973 to 1979. He later became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998.

Through his encyclicals – Lumen Fidei, Laudato Si’, Fratelli Tutti, and Dilexit Nos – Pope Francis has courageously brought attention to critical global challenges by creating platforms for worldwide discussion. Beyond the boundaries of the Catholic Church Pope Francis’s strong climate action gave firm support for migrant rights and his strict position against clerical sexual abuse “Zero Tolence”mentioned in Delixit nos have gained widespread attention.

Pope Francis has received widespread positive attention from international media which emphasizes his genuine nature and caring approach. This also helped the church to gain back its true identiy as an all inclusive and motherly church.

The Street artist Mauro Pallotta’s depiction of Pope Francis as “supero hero”. The increase of the crowd at regular Wednesday papal audience and the Sundady Angelus address shows how much Pope Francis is loved the common folks.

Pope Francis’s papacy confirms his motto “miserando atque elignedo” which means “By having mercy he chose us”. Mercy was the central theme of his teaching and living. As we now with utmost heaviness bid loving farewell to our dear Jorge Bergoglio, let us continue to carry on his legacy and ideals of “MERCY, LOVE AND CARE FOR THE NEIGHBOUR” as he says in his Angelus message on the solemnity of Christ the King, 2017 “At the end of our life we will be judged on love, that is, on our concrete commitment to love and to serve Jesus in our smallest and most needy brothers.”