A Kenyan religious sister of the Congregation of Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and working in Barcelona, has expressed her prayer that the Pope’s visit to Barcelona and Spain will be a time of renewal for all. She reflected on how Spain has historically sent missionaries around the world, and her life and ministry in the city were rooted in that gift of faith.
Paul Samasumo – Barcelona
Sr. Anne Ilia, sharing the joy of her mission in Barcelona, spoke about her fulfilment in working and collaborating with the Church that first gave her the faith.
Spain was one of the first nations to send missionaries across the world to proclaim the Gospel of Christ. Many of us, including myself, first came to know the Lord through their witness. Now, in a beautiful exchange of faith, we who were once evangelized by those missionaries have come to Europe to support and collaborate in the same mission of evangelization here,” she said.
“I live and serve the Church and society in Barcelona as a teacher at one of our schools, where I dedicate myself to educating and supporting children and youth. I also assist with catechism in our parish. As a professional teacher, my mission is to educate, accompany, and guide the young people in our community with love—love inspired by Christ the Servant,” she added.
Founded in Vic (Barcelona) in 1891 by Spanish priest Juan Collell Cuatrecasas, the Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus focus heavily on education, youth development, and social welfare. “We, the Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, are committed to serving those in need, following Christ’s example of love and compassion.”
Some of the children who attend a school run by the Sisters in Barcelona (©Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus)
Pope Leo reminds us that we are not alone
When asked about her expectations for Pope Leo’s visit to Barcelona, Sr. Anne expressed hope that the Holy Father’s visit would touch and renew the faith of all the people. She wished that the Pope’s presence would “fill us with more hope, courage, and a greater desire to make Jesus more present in our lives.”
Sr Anne continued, “I hope that by the time Pope Leo leaves Barcelona, the Church will experience a deep renewal of heart and a strengthening of faith. I long for conversion—that those who have grown distant or indifferent toward the Church will rediscover the joy of belonging and experience new life and the unconditional love of Christ. I also hope this moment will inspire young people to respond to God’s call with courage and generosity, whether to married life, consecrated life, or service in the world. I believe the Pope’s words and presence can remind the whole Church that we are not alone. We are part of one universal family, united in prayer, in mission, and in love for Christ. May his visit revive a spiritual communion between local parishes, religious communities, lay movements, and political parties, helping us all to lift our gaze toward Christ, who walks with us every day. I pray that His voice will be a clear call for justice and peace in our time.”
