On June 24-26, 2025, the Council of the Federation of Urbanist Poor Clares was held at the Monastery of Sant’Agnese in Montone, Italy, in view of the sisters’ Ordinary Federal Assembly scheduled for September 21-27, 2025. At that time the sisters will be called to elect a new President and Federal Council.
After numerous online meetings, there was a strong desire this time to gather in person once again. Thus, the sisters were warmly welcomed by the community guided by Sister Damiana ARDESI. Sister Damiana has served as the President of the Federation for the past twelve years. Friar Germano TOGNETTI, OFM Conv., the General Delegate for the Second Order, also attended. His helpful, wise, and discreet presence once again testified to the spiritual and fraternal bond between the Poor Clares and the Conventual Franciscans.
In addition to the issue of the reduction in numbers, which has long been a major topic of reflection among the sisters, they also discussed their relationship with the First Order.
The sisters recalled the courses that were organized in past years together with friars in initial formation. They expressed gratitude for the communion and collaboration they have experienced with the friars who regularly visit their monasteries. They spoke about their desire to find new paths to deepen mutual understanding, share the common charism, and strengthen communion with the Conventual Franciscans.
Sister Annachiara GIOVANARDI, Federal Secretary
