Following an ancient tradition, the Catholic Church observes “novendiales” nine consecutive days of mourning, marked by Masses at St. Peter’s Basilica for the late Pope Francis. While these Eucharistic celebrations are open to everyone, each day a different group participates based on their connection with the Holy Father. This diversity of groups reflects “the universality of the Church of Rome”. The mass on the eighth day was for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
The Holy Union Sisters’ General Council, Sisters Caroline Njah, Annemarie Egan, Yvette Sam and Michele Totman joined many women and men religious on May 3 when Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, presided at the Mass. Seated at right: Sisters Yvette, Annemarie and Michele.
Sister Mary Barron OLA, president of the International Union of Superiors’ General praised Pope Francis as a “humble and compassionate pastor” who had “unwavering confidence in the vocation of women religious”. You can read more of Sr. Mary’s remarks by downloading this document.