Nuns field calls about pope's health during hospitalization

In Italy, the nuns working at the Vatican switchboard have been responding to a growing number of inquiries regarding Pope Francis’s health as he remains hospitalized. Operating under the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master, these sisters engage with callers from around the globe, providing comfort and information to those who inquire. They often deal with a variety of emotionally charged calls, as many people express their concern and prayers for the pope’s well-being. The nuns, who cover the phones seven days a week and are primarily from Italy, the Philippines, and Poland, strive to maintain a personal touch amidst the digitization of communication. Each call requires a unique approach, as some urgent matters cannot simply be resolved through directories or protocols. Sister Simona notes that every caller presents a different scenario, reflecting the diverse global outreach of the Catholic Church. With more than 1.4 billion followers, the pope has cultivated an image marked by simplicity and dedication to the marginalized. The switchboard addresses various requests, from callers seeking financial assistance to those requiring help navigating Vatican services, particularly in anticipation of the forthcoming Holy Year in 2025, which is expected to attract about 32 million pilgrims to Rome. Some interactions involve callers who are experiencing distress, anxiety, or anger, and the nuns offer them reassurance and guidance while encouraging prayers for the pope. The work of these sisters is indicative of the broader role women play within the Vatican, with an increasing number of women in positions of responsibility, even though the majority of church leadership roles remain male-dominated. The nuns emphasize that they act as a conduit of mercy and compassion, providing a much-needed human touch in an era where automated systems dominate. Serving at the switchboard thus becomes not only a role of information dissemination but also of spiritual solace for those deeply concerned about the pope and the Catholic community at large.