Pope Francis emphasized the importance of evangelization during a private audience with the Carmelite Sisters Messengers of the Holy Spirit. The Pope reminded the congregation that announcing the Gospel to the entire world is the mission of all Christians. He stressed the need for Christians to remember their daily commitment to the service of evangelization and the spread of the Word of God, which must reach everyone.
The Pope’s words were echoed by St. Paul’s phrase, “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!” which he said should resonate in the heart of every baptized person. He also acknowledged the Carmelite Sisters’ missionary impulse, which is closely linked to contemplation and a life of prayer, following the ancient and beautiful Carmelite tradition.
The Carmelite Sisters Messengers of the Holy Spirit were founded on 30 July 1984, by Mother Maria Jose del Espiritu Santo in Nueva Almeida, Brazil. Their charisma is “to contemplate in order to evangelize.” The congregation’s pilgrimage to the tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul served as an opportunity for them to reaffirm their commitment to evangelization and the spread of the Word of God.