Pope Francis Commends Conrad Hilton Foundation for Empowering Women and Serving the Poor
Addressing the Board of the U.S.-based Conrad Hilton Foundation, Pope Francis praised their tireless work for the poor and for supporting the empowerment of religious women in the Church.
Established in 1944 by the famous hotelier Conrad Hilton, the foundation focuses on improving the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people worldwide through grants, partnerships, and advocacy. Their work includes addressing issues such as homelessness, addiction, education, early childhood development, migration, and global health, as well as providing support for communities affected by natural disasters and other crises.
One significant aspect of the foundation’s efforts is the empowerment of Catholic Sisters around the globe. Through initiatives like the Sisters Project Initiative, in collaboration with the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, the foundation supports the education and professional development of women religious.
Pope Francis’ Commendation
Greeting the Board of the Foundation, Pope Francis commended their passionate commitment to promoting human dignity and helping those most in need. He likened their work to the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing the importance of compassion and solidarity with the marginalized.
The Pope also highlighted the Foundation’s support for women religious, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and training to enhance their vital mission. He praised the Foundation for challenging the patriarchal and clerical mindset within the Church by investing in the empowerment of women religious.
Empowering Women Religious
Pope Francis emphasized the urgent need for the Church to invest in the formation of Sisters, recognizing their essential role in serving the poor and marginalized. He praised the Foundation for helping to break down barriers and promote equality within the Church.
He noted the progress towards including women in leadership roles within the Vatican, citing recent appointments of nuns to key positions. This shift towards gender equality reflects the Pope’s belief in the unique abilities and contributions of women in advancing the Church’s mission.
A Vision of Compassion and Change
In conclusion, Pope Francis thanked the Hilton Foundation for their tireless service and expressed his vision of a world where the marginalized are empowered to enact positive change. He emphasized the importance of compassion, closeness, and tenderness, qualities that reflect the essence of God’s love.
