18 Dec Be Artisans of Hope – Yearbook 2025
A call from Pope Francis
In a world marked by uncertainty, pain, and fragmentation, Pope Francis calls us to be artisans of hope. Not as naïve idealists, but as people capable of patiently, creatively, and faithfully weaving together the broken threads of humanity. Something of this spirit can be found in the various articles of this yearbook.
This year, in grateful remembrance of Pope Francis, we gather some of his reflections that have enlightened us—and continue to do so.
Hope, a humble virtue
Francis reminds us that hope is not superficial optimism nor a passing illusion. It is a humble, tenacious, and concrete virtue. “Hope is combative,” says the Pope. It is the certainty that, despite the shadows, God walks with us. “I hope because God walks with me,” he affirms with simplicity and depth.
With the gaze of faith
To be an artisan of hope implies cultivating a gaze of faith, capable of discovering beauty even in inert matter, just as an artisan does with their hands. “Craftsmanship is a praise of creativity,” says Francis, “and the artisan is a collaborator in God’s creative work.” Likewise, we are called to discern paths of life, peace, and reconciliation where others see only chaos or hopelessness.
“Mysticism of open eyes”
The Pope invites us to live a “mysticism of open eyes” to train ourselves to recognize the good that exists in the world, and to savor the wonder of being loved by a God who has chosen to share our history. This hope, both gift and task, urges us to build community, to sow peace, and to be witnesses to God’s faithfulness.
To the young people
In his message to young people, Francis calls them “artisans of hope” because they are capable of dreaming, imagining a different future, and committing themselves to life, justice, and creation. And he exhorts all of us: “Let us rise and set out as pilgrims of hope, to bring messages of joy, to generate new life, and to be artisans of fraternity and peace.”
May the reading of these articles help us to give thanks for so much good that has been done and to renew our calling to be artisans of hope.
Sr. Encarna González Noval, ACI
Anuario Esclavas del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús – 2025