As a transformative leader in the church, Pope Francis acknowledged the role of women in the ministry and leadership. He consistently pushed for the inclusion of women in decision-making positions. During his reign, more women have been appointed to senior roles in the church’s management. His calls for a “more incisive female presence” are not merely symbolic—they are grounded in a theological conviction that the gifts and perspectives of women are essential to the future of the Church.
Beyond appointing women to institutional roles, such as Sister Raffaella Petrini to a role akin to governor of Vatican City, Pope Francis consistently championed their broader contributions to society, especially in education, healthcare, and social justice. He emphasized the urgency of ongoing education and training, stating, “Their work at the borders, on the peripheries, and among the poor requires training and competence.” He reminded us that, “The mission of sisters is to serve the least among us—not to be servants to anyone.” The Strathmore University´s Sisters’ Blended Value Project (SBVP) aligns with Pope Francis’ vision. SBVP works to empower Catholic sisters with the skills to lead sustainable social enterprises for greater evangelisation.
The SBVP team recognizes this, and as the Project lead, Dr. Angela Ndunge, states: Pope Francis stood out as a great person. He opened doors rather than keeping them closed in a society where women still face obstacles towards leadership. His leadership demonstrated a unique quality: the strength and willingness to challenge established conventions and welcome women as collaborators in positions of influence and authority. Pope Francis’ actions served as a reminder to the world that vision, voice, and a desire to serve are what characterise leadership, not gender. He showed that being inclusive is a duty that promotes deeper discussions, wiser choices, and stronger communities. He illustrated what it means to lead with humility, to listen intently, and to change while upholding a deep belief in human dignity. He changed the course of history.
It is our hope that a generation of leaders, both male and female, will be motivated by his legacy to realise that true leadership is a team effort, and that the future thrives when everyone is represented at the table.
Sr Peris Muchiri, a Manager at SBVP, also felt strongly about Pope Francis’s role in encouraging Women. Sr. Peris said, “We commemorate the remarkable life of Pope Francis. He was a shepherd sent from all over the world to guide the Church with humility, discernment, and unfailing kindness. Through his words and deeds, he changed lives, spoke up for the oppressed, and became a ray of hope for millions of people worldwide.
Sr Peris continues to state that because of their unending love, commitment, and faith in service to God and society, Pope Francis held Catholic sisters in the highest regard. Calling them “women of strength,” he praised their bravery and their important contributions to the Church. As he previously stated, “Tenderness is witnessed by women in the Church.” They are strong women who enhance the beauty of the Church and aid in our spiritual development.
His encouragement and support inspired countless sisters to embrace their vocations with joy, integrity, and unwavering commitment. Pope Francis championed their mission and voices, ensuring their transformative influence would never go unnoticed.
Sr Celestine Nasiali, who works at the ACWECA Secretariat and is the Regional Project Coordinator (SBVP), noted that a tremendous spiritual leader passed away, carrying a ministry that influenced millions. Through his teachings, Pope Francis made a deep impact on my Christian and consecrated woman’s life. His leadership style, with his gentle smiles, humble spirit, and simple behavior, made a permanent imprint on me.
Sr Celestine continues to say that through his inclusive vision, along with his sense of deep belonging, Pope Francis demonstrated the heart of Jesus as the Good Teacher to his followers. Francis served as a guiding light of love combined with hope for disadvantaged people while bringing humble compassion to individuals who felt excluded from society. He exhorted leaders to demonstrate care toward the vulnerable populations while showing them an example of authentic servant leadership.
As the SBVP continues its mission across Africa, equipping Catholic sisters with tools for transformative social entrepreneurship, Pope Francis’ legacy serves as both an inspiration and a blueprint. His unwavering commitment to inclusion, dignity, and servant leadership resonates deeply with the sisters who are building sustainable futures for their communities.
His words remain with us:
“What is the most important subject to learn in life? To learn to Love.” – Pope Francis
“Although the life of a person is in a land full of thorns and weeds, there is always a space in which the good seed can grow. You have to trust God.” – Pope Francis
May Pope Francis rest in the eternal embrace of God’s love, servant of mercy and peace.
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Conrad N. Hilton Foundation
The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation foresees a world in which improving the human condition is a shared and sustainable goal. “Love one another, for that is the whole law,” Conrad Hilton wrote in his will. The peoples of the world “deserve to be loved and encouraged—never to be abandoned to wander alone in poverty and darkness.” That is our resolve.
