In Slovakia an opportunity for the Economy of Communion

In June, in two cities of Slovakia, a book was presented about the life of deceased French entrepreneur of the Economy of Communion (EoC), Francois Neveux.

The first presentation took place on June 12, 2013 in Kosice in the Hall of the Panta Rhei Library, which was not able to contain the large crowd. People came not only from nearby cities but also from Poland, Ukraine and the Czech Republic. The participants had the most varied professional experiences as well. The audience included entrepreneurs and students, the unemployed and public workers. Also present were the local coordinators of the EoC in France,along with the wife of Francoise. In their presentation of him, they described Francois an “entrepreneur of relationships.”

Their testimony, in which they shared great and small experiences from his life, was especially appreciated, because “theories” can be argued and discussed, and different opinions emerge, but a life like that of Francois leaves no room for discussion.

On June 13, 2013 the presentationwas held in the capital city of Bratislava. It was attended by several political leaders who were interested in the EoC. A lively dialogue followed the presentations. One politician remarked: “The philosophy that lies beneath the EoC can help us to write innovative laws, and policies that are new. The EoC is the way.” The event was also covered by the Lux Catholic TV network in Slovakia, which helped in spreading the spirit behind the project.

In the capital of Slovakia there is also an historic business company that has adhered to the EoC. It is called In Vivo. For years it has produced ceramics and is widely known and appreciated for its originality. In Vivo began in 1991 just after the EoC began, based on the inspiration of Chiara Lubich in Brazil that same year.

“The relationships that were built certainly didn’t end with the presentation of a book,” writes Slovak Maja Calfova, “on the contrary, new relationships have begun and old ones have been strengthened,” bringing new energy also to the local EoC commission. One of its members stated: “We feel inside that we can’t rest until the EoC is incarnated in our land and in those around us.”