As the Plenary of the International Union of Superiors General was celebrating its closing Mass, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel.  After receiving communion, over 950 sisters broke out into dancing and singing, praise and joy, at the news that a new pope was chosen. 

What a thrill to be in that room at that time!  For 10 minutes the joy carried the energy of the room until a sister took the microphone and called the meeting to an end, followed by the priest who gave us the final blessing. By then, at least a third of the congress had left the room, presumably on their way to St. Peter’s Square.  Others remained as the coverage was telecast on the large screens in the room.

What a surprise to see an American pope, a missionary, an Augustianian! We welcome Pope Leo XIV!

Since Monday, May 5, over 900 superiors general, leaders of our congregations, have been meeting together in synodality to discuss and affirm the direction of UISG for the next six years.  So many times this week, we have invoked or praised the work of Pope Francis, his support and love for the religious women in the church and for all. All our prayers and energy have carried us through the week, and we carried the conclave as well in our prayers.  The Holy Spirit was with us all!

Today, Friday, May 9, the energy in Rome is still vibrating. What a blessing for me to be here at this time, and to still be in Rome next week when Pope Leo XIV will be installed as the 267th pope.

Sr. Teresa Hougnon is president of the Maryknoll Sisters based in Ossining. She wrote for the Peekskill Herald about her visit to the tomb of Pope Francis.