The Constellation Assembly in Rome, held on 9 January 2025 at the UISG headquarters, provided an important opportunity for reflection and sharing among a large number of Superiors General from different parts of the world. The theme of the Assembly, "Authority in Consecrated Life for a Synodal Church", focused on how religious life can respond to the call of an increasingly synodal, participatory and listening Church, in a context that embraces the diversity and global nature of the experiences and challenges of religious congregations.

The Assembly also featured a series of significant presentations by experts, who contributed reflections on various aspects of religious life and synodality. Among the morning speakers, Sr. Beatrice dal Santo deepened the topic of the "Mission of the Superiors General in sharing with the intercultural council"; Sr. Theresa Purayidathil spoke on "Canonical Visitation"; and Sr. Micaela Monetti addressed the theme of the "General Chapter." In the afternoon, Sr. Lia Latella presented a reflection on the "Restructuring" of congregations, followed by Sr. Miriam Altenhofen’s talk on "Intercongregational Experiences and Common Projects."

The Heart of the Assembly: Sr. Simona Brambilla’s Address

The address by Sr. Simona Brambilla, the new Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, was the focal point of the Assembly, providing deep reflection on crucial themes for religious life and its role in the synodal Church.

• Synodality: A Path of Discernment and Conversion of the Heart. Sr. Simona opened her conference with a reflection on the importance of the synodal process and communal discernment in consecrated life. She emphasized that synodality, which requires an open heart ready to be transformed, is essential for building a Church capable of responding to contemporary challenges. The synodal journey is not just an institutional aspect; it must involve every member of the Church through attentive listening and deep dialogue. This process, Sr. Simona highlighted, involves a true conversion of the heart, capable of renewing thoughts, feelings, and actions, to become a more missionary and welcoming Church.

• Spiritual Authority: Nourishing and Leading the Community in Service. At the core of Sr. Simona's reflection was also the theme of spiritual authority, which should not be viewed as power, but as a service that nurtures and helps the community grow. She used the image of Jesus cooking for the disciples to illustrate authority that cares for others, guiding and helping them grow in faith. This model of authority, characterized by the "mysticism of us," emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the original charism, keeping the mission of the congregation alive and vital. In a constantly changing world, religious leadership is called to respond creatively to new social and cultural challenges, guiding the institute to renew itself while remaining faithful to its charism.

• Fraternity and Care: Building Authentic Relationships in Consecrated Life. Another key point in the conference was the emphasis on care and fraternity within the congregations. Sr. Simona stressed that a synodal Church cannot do without a religious life that invests in the care of persons and the creation of authentic fraternities, capable of attracting young people to consecrated life. In a context where relationships are often fractured, it is essential for religious communities to engage in repairing and renewing relationships, creating an environment of welcome, support, and mutual growth.

• Restructuring and Internationalization: The Future of Religious Congregations. Sr. Simona's reflection also embraced the theme of restructuring and internationalization within religious congregations. Superiors General were invited to consider the need for revitalizing structures, both through the creation of intercultural communities that foster encounters and exchanges between different cultures and through a continuous formation process that responds to global challenges. Restructuring must take into account four fundamental dimensions: mission, formation, governance structures, and resource sharing, so that congregations can meet the needs of the universal Church without losing their identity.

• Formation and Synodality: Walking Together in Discernment. Sr. Simona concluded her address with an invitation to strengthen the formation of formators, particularly those called to accompany young religious and help them grow in their capacity to live synodality. The need for adequate formation to address intercultural challenges, biodiversity, and new social dynamics, which are integral parts of the future of consecrated life, was discussed. Walking together, Sr. Simona said, is the very essence of religious life, which must increasingly be oriented towards collaboration between congregations to respond to the challenges of the global mission.

Projects Promoted by UISG: Priorities for the Future of Religious Life.

The assembly also featured the presentation of projects promoted by the UISG, which highlighted four priority areas: the fight against human trafficking, support for migrants, the care of children, and the protection of minors. The UISG is also committed to promoting the formation of religious leaders to face the challenges of our time with greater awareness and commitment.

Next Steps: Continuing to Walk Together

The Assembly concluded with an invitation to continue the synodal journey, through participation in upcoming training sessions and the UISG Plenary Assembly in May 2025. The Superiors General were also invited to fill out a feedback questionnaire about the assembly and update their contact information with the UISG secretariat. 

This day of reflection and sharing represented a significant moment of renewal for consecrated life, increasingly oriented towards a synodal, open, intercultural Church that listens to the needs of the contemporary world.