Mother Vicki meets Pope Francis

This year, the Cistercians of the Strict Observance (a.k.a. the Trappists), held its overdue General Chapter in Assisi, Italy, in two parts.

The first of these, held February 7 – 17, was for the election of our new abbot general: Dom Bernardus Peeters.

The second part was held September 2-23 to attend to other business of the Order. A highlight of this second meeting was the Chapter’s private audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican on September 16. Mother Vicki from Santa Rita Abbey in Sonoita, AZ, was thrilled to be able to greet the Holy Father in person!