Written by Dear Friends of Andante,
On behalf of the Coordinating Committee of Andante, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyful and hope-filled Pentecostal season. This time of renewal and inspiration calls us once again to be attentive to the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives, our communities, and our Church.
We also want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in and contributed to our recent study days in Gdańsk. Your presence, wisdom, and solidarity made the gathering both meaningful and energising. It was a time of shared learning, deep reflection, and communal prayer—true to the spirit of Andante.
Our meeting, however, was marked by the sorrowful news of the death of Pope Francis, a leader whose papacy left a profound imprint on the global Church, particularly through his advocacy for the synodal path, social justice, and the inclusion of women in Church discourse. His death has raised important questions about the future of his reforms – especially the role of women in decision-making processes and the possibilities for a renewed theology of ordained ministry.
Early signs suggest that Pope Leo, as a member of the Augustinian order and someone reportedly chosen with the encouragement of Pope Francis, may continue along this trajectory of reform. His attention to the nexus of faith and reason, and his concern for the spiritual and existential challenges that cause people to lose trust in the Church, are deeply resonant with Andante’s mission. His early engagement with pressing global issues – climate change, migration, and now the ethical challenges of Artificial Intelligence – gives us cautious hope.
As we step into this new chapter, we invite you to join us in praying for Pope Leo, that he may be led by the Holy Spirit with courage, humility, and openness to dialogue. Let us continue to work together and advocate tirelessly for justice, dignity, and full participation of women in the life and leadership of the Church.
In the spirit of Pentecost, may our hearts be set ablaze with the fire of renewal.
With warmest wishes and prayers,
Weronika Felcis and Sophie Rudge
Co-Chairs, Andante