Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Sister Paris Slapikas, a member of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, was one of 200 religious sisters who attended the Hope 2025 conference in Rome, Italy from June 3-7. The event attracted women religious from various communities across six continents.

"To see this amazing bonding happening, transcending borders, is an amazing thing to be a part of and to witness," stated Sister Slapikas. She currently serves as director of Catholic Charities' Sister Visitor Center in West Louisville.

The conference, organized by Leadership Collaborative, aimed to foster transformational leadership for religious life and the Gospel mission. "It's inspiring to be with women from around the world, to see their energy, passion and commitment to ministry and service," added Sister Slapikas.

This second edition of the conference followed its inaugural session in Chicago in 2024. Alongside those physically present in Rome, over 100 participants joined virtually.

"The heart of the gathering is connection," emphasized Sister Slapikas. The collaborative focuses on building connections among younger religious sisters under 65 years old, believing that relationships and collaboration are key for the future of religious life.

During their time together in Rome, attendees engaged in worship and discussions about their hopes and challenges. The sisters highlighted their mission "to serve the marginalized" while navigating global issues such as wars, human trafficking, migration problems, global warming, racism, gun violence, and famine.

Participants also shared personal challenges including burnout and mental health issues within an aging population. "We shared and listened. There were lots of vulnerability [and] lamentation," said Sister Slapikas.

One sister reminded others that they must "welcome" their humanity—a theme resonating deeply with Sister Slapikas who noted it includes supporting vulnerable individuals through her work at the Sister Visitor Center in West Louisville.

Reflecting on her return from Rome she mentioned considering how best to reconcile meeting needs with available capacity amidst legislative changes impacting food aid: "As we're on the cusp...people will have greater needs."

Despite looming challenges ahead she remains hopeful: "Women religious need...fresh perspectives," she concluded describing them as bridge builders offering love faith renewed vision those served hoping embody these qualities moving forward