Francis: Church without nuns 'unimaginiable'

From Vatican Radio:

Pope Francis on Sunday highlighted the great value that nuns bring to the Church. "What would happen" – the Pope said – "if there were no nuns? No nuns in hospitals, in missions, in charitable institutions, in schools… Can you even imagine a Church without nuns…? No it is unthinkable!".

And speaking on the day in which we celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life, the Pope said that nuns are great women. He said "they are a gift, the leaven that carries the message of Christ". "These women – he said – are great!"

The Pope's words came before the Sunday recitation of the Angelus in St Peter's Square, after having presided over Mass in the Basilica on the Feast Day of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, a Feast which is traditionally dedicated to Consecrated Life.

To those gathered in the Square Pope Francis said that consecrated persons in different sectors are "the leaven of a more just and fraternal society". He said that "Consecrated Life is a gift of God to the Church and to His people".

The Pope said that the Church and the world needs the witness of religious and consecrated lay people to the love and the mercy of God, and he asked for prayers so that many young people may say "yes" to God who calls them "to consecrate their lives to Him and to be of service to their brothers and sisters".

Pope Francis recalled that the year 2015 will be dedicated to Consecrated Life and asked for prayers for this initiative. After the recitation of the Angelus Prayer, Pope Francis reminded those present that in Italy "The Day for Life" is celebrated today with the theme "Generating the Future". He sent his greetings and encouragement to those committed to the defence of life from its conception to its natural end.