Exactly on January 11, 2025, the Superior General Brother Pascal Ahodegnon and the new General Council were received in audience by Pope Francis. While waiting to meet the Pontiff, they had the opportunity to converse with Cardinal Prevost, who was also waiting to be received. At that time, we described that meeting as “prophetic,” and today we can say it was no mere expression.

One year later, on Monday, January 12, the Superior General and his Council experienced another significant moment: the audience with Pope Leo XIV. After a cordial exchange of greetings, the Holy Father and Brother Pascal held a private conversation, rich in content and perspectives. Among the topics discussed were issues of great relevance and urgency: healthcare ministry within the Church and the Order, the future of Catholic healthcare services in Italy, mental health on a global scale, and the growing ecclesial sensitivity toward this area. In this context, special attention was given to the presence of our religious in Drohobycz, Ukraine, where a project is underway to establish a facility dedicated to social assistance—a concrete sign of closeness to populations affected by war and of commitment to peace.

The meeting took place in a filial and fraternal atmosphere, a sign of communion that translates into concrete action. These dialogues are not mere institutional appointments but milestones on a path that looks to the future with responsibility and hope, aware that the mission of the Order is deeply intertwined with the challenges of society and the Church.