Empowering Women: Global Jubilee Conference with Religious Sisters
Religious sisters from all corners of the world gathered at the Global Jubilee Conference organized by the Dicastery for Communication to share their projects, missions, experiences, and witness. The conference served as a platform for these women to showcase the incredible work they do and the impact they have on communities worldwide.
By Salvatore Cernuzio
Heart-wrenching stories of resilience and hope were shared at the conference. From a young girl in South America losing her legs in a tragic accident to another child in the Philippines rescued from exploitation, the struggles faced by these individuals serve as a reminder of the importance of the work done by religious sisters.
The event took place in the breathtaking Sistine Hall, where the nuns shared their experiences and missions with an international audience. The stories shared were both heartbreaking and inspiring, showcasing the power of faith and compassion in the face of adversity.
Communication as a Gift
The conference highlighted the role of communication in the work of these women. Through various forms of media, including social platforms and traditional radio, the sisters were able to bring about positive change in the lives of many. From providing aid to refugees to empowering marginalized women, their work demonstrates the transformative power of communication.
Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, emphasized the importance of communication as a reciprocal gift of self. Through their stories and testimonies, the nuns showcased the impact of their work on communities worldwide.
Examples of ‘Female Genius’
The conference featured engaging testimonies from women religious working in disaster-stricken areas across the globe. These women were described as prophets of hope, embodying strength, resilience, and tenderness in their work.
The ‘feminine genius’ of these sisters was evident in their dedication to serving the poor and marginalized. Through their actions, they exemplified the teachings of love and compassion preached by the Church.
The Creativity of the Nuns
The conference opened with a prayer led by Monsignor Lucio Ruiz, Secretary of the Dicastery for Communication, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and creativity in the work of the sisters.
Dr. Ruffini highlighted the transformative power of love in communication and urged the audience to live in communion with one another. The nuns’ creative love, he emphasized, is essential in bringing about positive change in the world.
The Legacy of the Hilton Foundation
The conference also paid tribute to the legacy of the Hilton Foundation, which supports initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting social justice. The Foundation’s commitment to uplifting marginalized communities aligns with the mission of the religious sisters who work tirelessly to bring about positive change in the world.
The Generosity of William Hilton’s Will: Empowering Nuns Worldwide
In his will, William Hilton left a lasting legacy by expressing a clear desire to allocate a significant portion of his funds for the benefit of nuns around the world.
Linda Hilton, his granddaughter, has faithfully carried out his wishes by donating a staggering 614 million US dollars to nuns who tirelessly serve communities, promote peace and justice, and advocate for education and representation in decision-making processes. These mothers and sisters play a crucial role in educating children, caring for the needy, and supporting victims of oppression.
Sr Norma Pimentel
Empowering Migrants at the US-Mexico Border
Sister Norma Pimentel, a beacon of hope for migrants crossing the Rio Grande, shared her experiences at the event. She has dedicated herself to helping those who embark on perilous journeys from Mexico to the USA, offering prayers and support to defend the marginalized and stand in solidarity with them.
Sister Norma recounted stories of children and families from various countries facing dire circumstances, highlighting the importance of communication in raising awareness and garnering support for their cause.
One poignant story she shared was of a young girl who lost her legs while attempting to board a train. Despite the tragedy, the community rallied together to support her journey to safety, showcasing the power of communication in making a difference.
Sr Rosemary Nirumbe
Empowering Women Victims of Violence in Uganda
Sister Rosemary Nirumbe, a Ugandan nun recognized for her advocacy for victims of abuse and torture, captivated the audience with her work. She shared stories of women rescued from traumatic experiences and empowered to rebuild their lives through education and skills training.
Her efforts to provide a safe haven for these women, including those affected by the “Lord’s Resistance Army” in Uganda, have transformed lives and brought hope to those once deemed as societal outcasts.
Through innovative projects like tailoring, Sister Rosemary has empowered women to create a new future for themselves, emphasizing the importance of communication in spreading messages of hope and healing.
Combatting Human Trafficking
Sister Abby Avelino, a Filipino delegate of the anti-trafficking organization Talitha Kum, highlighted the urgent need to address human trafficking, particularly in the digital realm. She shared harrowing stories of individuals deceived and exploited by traffickers, underscoring the importance of vigilance and intervention to protect vulnerable populations.
As the fight against exploitation continues, organizations like Talitha Kum play a crucial role in advocating for the rights of victims and raising awareness about the pervasive nature of human trafficking in today’s world.
Combating the Dark Side of the Web: A Call to Action
In today’s digital age, the rise of human trafficking and exploitation has found new avenues to thrive. Anonymity and the speed of the web provide cover for traffickers, while dating apps and social networks serve as platforms for recruiting victims for forced labor, scams, and even pedophilia.
At a recent conference, Sr. Abby shared a heartbreaking story of an eight-year-old girl who fell victim to her own aunt, with her body being sold online. Thanks to coordinated efforts and the communication skills of many individuals, she was eventually rescued.
Sr Helen Alford
Building Contacts and Bridges for Change
Sister Helen Alford and Sister Natalie Becquart, two influential figures in the fight against exploitation, highlighted the need for open dialogue and communication to aid victims on their path to healing.
Sister Alford stressed the importance of giving voice to the voiceless, while Sister Becquart shared insights from the Synod on Synodality, emphasizing the role of building connections and learning from one another.
The Power of Storytelling: ‘On Our Radar’ Project
Chris Walter, co-director of the ‘On Our Radar’ project in the UK, showcased the impact of empowering marginalized communities through storytelling. By training local journalists and communicators, the project enables unheard stories to reach a global audience, leading to positive change.
Challenges in the Digital Age
Fr. Paolo Benanti, an expert on ethics of technology, highlighted the importance of quality content in an era of digital pollution. He emphasized the need for training and continuous learning to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Online Evangelization and Social Networks
From the inspiring work of Sister Lismy Parayil Chandy to the thought-provoking discussions on social networks led by Sister Nina Krapic, the conference shed light on the power of online evangelization. Sister Vassa Larin’s unique approach to sharing her faith online resonated with many, showcasing the potential for positive impact through digital platforms.
As we navigate the complexities of the digital world, it is crucial to come together, share stories, and empower those in need. By working collaboratively, we can combat the dark side of the web and create a safer, more connected world for all.
Welcome to the Global Jubilee Conference Recap!
During the recent Global Jubilee Conference, speakers came together to discuss the importance of “empathy” and “authenticity” in communication. These key themes resonated with participants as they explored ways to connect and engage with each other.
Participants in the Global Jubilee Conference with Religious Sisters
Looking to the Future
As the event concluded, participants reflected on their time together, engaging in language groups and the assembly. Nataša Govekar, the Director of the Theological-Pastoral Department of the Dicastery for Communication, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to host such a meaningful conference.
Dr. Govekar shared, “I was asked: is this conference something you do every year or two years? Actually, it is the first one there has ever been. We hope it is not the last.”
