Queen Camilla hears Catholic Sisters' witness from the world's frontlines

Less than a year after their first encounter during the State Visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla to the Holy See, representatives of the International Union of Superiors General (UISG) travelled to London to meet once again with Her Majesty at Clarence House, sharing stories from the front lines of their mission among some of the world's most vulnerable communities.

The audience on Wednesday offered an opportunity to reflect on the work of Catholic Sisters serving across every continent, particularly their commitment to protecting women and girls affected by conflict, trafficking, poverty and the growing impact of climate change. It also highlighted the continuing collaboration between the UISG and the British Embassy to the Holy See in supporting initiatives that promote human dignity and resilience.

Dr Anabel Inge, Chargé d'Affaires ad interim at the British Embassy to the Holy See, described the meeting as "a really special, joyous occasion," noting that the invitation reflected Queen Camilla's deep appreciation for the work of women religious.

"I don't think any of us expected that the sisters would be invited to Clarence House so soon," she said. "It really speaks to the quite deep appreciation of Her Majesty the Queen for the work of the religious sisters."

Having worked closely with UISG over the past five years, Inge praised the Sisters' quiet yet courageous witness.

"I have had the distinct impression that this work is often done very quietly, without fanfare, with great humility and in some of the world's most difficult places," she said, pointing to the qualities she believes distinguish their ministry: "trust, presence and continuity" within local communities.

"They are embedded in local communities... they will stick around even during conflicts, frequently putting themselves at great personal risk."