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With gratitude from the RENATE Network
This week, we mourn the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, a shepherd who stood boldly for justice, peace, and the dignity of every person. While our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in reflecting on the moments we shared with him as a network.
One such treasured memory was the audience RENATE members were privileged to have with Pope Francis during our Second European Assembly in Rome, held from 6–12 November 2016. On 7th November, the Holy Father welcomed us at the Vatican with warmth and humility. Each person had the rare opportunity to greet him personally — an unforgettable honour.
As a token of our shared mission, Sr. Patricia Mulhall, CSB, presented Pope Francis with a handwoven St. Brigid’s Cross from the Brigidine Community in Kildare, Ireland. Alongside Sr. Viktorija Šimić, SCSC, they shared a prayer composed during the weaving of the Cross — carrying our hopes, dreams, and steadfast commitment to end human trafficking.
We invite you to revisit the Pope’s full address to RENATE here:
👉 Greeting of His Holiness Pope Francis to the Second European Assembly of RENATE
You may also enjoy looking back at the group photo with Pope Francis, a moment of joy and unity that continues to bless us.
For more stories and photos from this special time, visit our News archive from November 2016, and feel free to browse your own photo collections to remember the joy we shared in Rome.
We give thanks for the life, vision, and unwavering compassion of Pope Francis. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to light our path.
In prayer,
The RENATE Core Group