Focolare Movement

Course for Seminary Educators

Aug 5, 2015

The conclusion of the 2014-2015 Theological-Pastoral Course for Seminary Educators held at the Center for the spirituality of communion, “Vinea mea,” in Loppiano (Florence) from 12 to 25 July.

VineaMea_01The 2014-2015 Course for Seminary Educators that ended in Loppiano, was attended by around 20 priests from Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Indonesia, Thailand, Italy, Holland, Spain and Malta. “In giving a comprehensive assessment of the course, I think I can say that the objective of enlightening the world of education in seminaries with the charism of unity was substantially fulfilled.” Some of the participants shared their impressions: “Attending the course has made me focus on the significance and value of my ecclesial service as an educator, especially within the perspective of the Church as communion, and also because of the fact that the Church of the future depends on the type of education given in seminaries.” “This course challenged me to live this model of life we contemplated on together and let myself be moulded by the circumstances and by my brethren, and change my way of praying and thinking. I will keep in contact spiritually and try as much as possible to concretely keep up a direct dialogue with the team that has promoted this event, and also with all the participants.” The course structure was divided into four weeks within a two-year period. The second half which was held this year dealt with the concrete aspects of education, divided into seven major parts: The Gift of oneself and communion; Openness toward the other: dialogue and testimonials; Union with God: interiority and sanctification; Life and the mystical body and corporeality; Personal harmony and building the community; Wisdom, studies and culture; and Communication and media at the service of communion. The course was guided by the keywords: prayer-life-thought. It successfully achieved the mutual involvement of participants and course supervisors. Similar courses were also held in Bangkok in 2013, with around 60 participants from Southeast Asian countries. Other similar courses have been programmed to be held in the Philippines, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Brazil and Colombia. Over the last eight years, there has been a total participation of about 200 seminary educators from about 30 countries of the four continents.

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