A great plan lies behind the family

Jan 6, 2008 | Non categorizzato

When God created human kind he formed a family. When the Sacred writers wished to demonstrate the ardour and the fidelity of God’s love for his chosen people, they used symbols and analogies related to the family. When Jesus became incarnate, he gathered around him a family, and when he began his mission at Cana, he was celebrating the start of a new family. These simple ideas reveal just how important and precious the family is in the mind of God. Not only did he give it great dignity, he wanted it to be “in his image”, intermingling it with the mystery of his own life, which is both Unity and Trinity of Love. A great plan therefore lies behind the family, following on the path of the Holy Family of Nazareth. The family, a place where love is given and received, a place of communion, of fertility and tenderness, is a sign, a symbol and a model for every other kind of human association. It is not mere rhetoric to affirm that the family is the prime social good. Through the daily, freely given love, that gives meaning and value to its task of generation and education, the family brings to the fabric of society the irreplaceable good of human capital, thus becoming an effective resource for humanity. Furthermore, it opens its home and heart to the problems of society, and brings the warmth of the family to places where structures and institutions, in spite of all their good will, cannot reach. This is a great plan, and the commitment to follow it must be great too. Today more than ever, the family appears to the world in its fragility. Spouses faced with the first difficulties of married life begin to doubt their love for one another. Children deprived of a close relationship with united parents, find it difficult to undertake future commitments.  And older people, separated from their immediate families, find themselves without rights or identity. More than ever the family must be loved, protected, and supported. We must always go back to its original plan, where in lasting unity, it is consolidated and fulfilled. We have to fill the meaning family of life with a spirituality of communion, making it more itself, a little community of love. And public opinion must support family values and sensible family policies. I place this, my wish for the family, in the hands of Mary Most Holy, seat of wisdom and mother at home, for the good of the family today and for the fulfilment of the whole human family. Chiara Lubich

Love is a better law

Nov 12, 2007 | Non categorizzato

Beyond the legal framework within which we live, love is the highest measure of justice, and resolves problems that appear to have no solution. As a lawyer, I often have to use my professional skills in the service of others, while offering as much love as possible. This way of understanding and of carrying out my job often produces a deep change in others. One day a lady phoned me, because her daughter had decided, after an argument, to separate from her husband. Her partner had found a lawyer who within 24 hours had prepared all the documentation for a legal separation; it only needed the wife’s signature. The lady was worried and asked me if I could help. She knew that the young couple’s action was a result of momentary anger, and didn’t want this to ruin their future. Without a mandate from either partner, I couldn’t intervene. The lady asked me, however, to see her daughter, who she would send to me with the excuse of seeking advice from a lawyer. I listened for a long time to the young wife, and realised that the marriage could be saved. They really had acted on impulse without thinking of the consequences, and one signature on the petition would probably mean the end of their relationship. At the end of the conversation the woman asked me to represent her. So I phoned the colleague who had prepared the petition. I told him that before finalising a separation I usually try to find out the reasons for the crisis in the marriage, and that 24 hours were not enough. I got him to send the draft of the petition. After a few days I called the woman. She replied that both she and he husband had had second thoughts and had decided not to go ahead. Recently I heard that they now have two beautiful children. (F.C.)

Chiara Lubich’s message

Nov 6, 2007 | Non categorizzato

Dear New Families! With great joy I celebrate with you the fortieth anniversary of the foundation of our New Families Movement. I still remember all the enthusiasm, ardour, and passion I had in my heart on that distant July 19, 1967, when speaking to no more than a hundred married focolarini, I felt the need to give life to a Movement for the whole world of families. Over these forty years we have seen the development and fruits of New Families, and we can understand even more clearly the reason for that particular impulse of the Holy Spirit. In fact it was a very demanding initiative. Not only because the family, primary cell of society, is enormously important for the building of a world of values and of peace, but because God’s plan for the family is modelled after his own life, the life of the Most Holy Trinity. God’s plan for the family is indeed daring and very beautiful, but it is also demanding, especially today. Consider for a moment the way contemporary culture views a stable family and marital fidelity. You, New Families, exist precisely in order to be witnesses in this world, witnesses of unity, of lasting love, of the Gospel put into practice. In doing so you will not only be happy, but you will continue to attract many hearts to love, to the point of accomplishing, with the whole Focolare Movement, universal fraternity. I am with you always with great affection and I entrust each one of your families to Mary, Seat of Wisdom and a mother at home. Chiara  

To respond to the complex situations of families today, “The secret is to really live the Gospel!”

Nov 6, 2007 | Non categorizzato

“Given the many social economic cultural and religious challenges in contemporary society all over the world, your work, truly providential, is a sign of hope and an encouragement for Christian Families to be a privileged “space”, where the beauty of having Jesus Christ at the centre, and following the Gospel faithfully, is proclaimed in everyday life”. These were the words of Pope Benedict XVI addressed to the 400 representatives of the New Families Movement, received in audience by him on November 3, 2007. This is the family “built on the rock”, that chooses to transform the gospel into action, in the spirit of the meeting organised by New Families from November 1 to 6. “The secret is to really live the Gospel”, the Pope said, at a time when families often live in “difficult and complex situations”. “I am thinking”, said Benedict XVI, “of the uncertainty of fiancés when faced with definitive choices for the future, the crises of couples, the separations and divorces, irregular unions, the situation of widows, of families in difficulty, the acceptance of abandoned children”. The Pope began by sending his greetings to Chiara Lubich, thanking her, “because with wisdom and firm adhesion to the Church, she continues to guide the great Focolare family”. During the afternoon, the families gathered at the meeting hall in Castelgandolfo (Rome) celebrated their 40th anniversary via internet with the New Families of the whole world. They were moved to hear again the words pronounced by Chiara Lubich in 1967, who foresaw the birth of a huge movement for families. And it was Chiara once more with a new message who filled them with enthusiasm for their task today and their future commitment. “After the passage of forty years, and seeing the development and the fruits of New Families, the reason for that special impulse of the Holy Spirit is becoming clear”, she says. “It was a very weighty sign, not just because the family, as the primary cell of society, has an enormous importance for building a world of values and peace, but because God has modelled it on His own life, the life of the Holy Trinity”. The family has a beautiful, urgent, and at the same time demanding purpose, especially today. Chiara’s desire for the New Families is that they be “in this world witnesses of unity, of lasting love, of the Gospel lived”. “You will continue to attract many hearts to love, to the point of bringing about, with the whole Focolare movement, universal fraternity”. Afterwards, during the two hour transmission via internet, there was a deep sharing of experiences of family life, and of responses to the challenges of family life over the last 40 years, demonstrated by many practical projects of varying size and scope: from courses for engaged couples to schools for families, and the support at a distance of numerous international adoptions. For more information: www.famiglienuove.info

[:it]”Le ragioni del dialogo: attualità di Igino Giordani”

Oct 25, 2007 | Non categorizzato

[:it]Nel vivo della politica italiana, guardando a Igino Giordani

Oct 19, 2007 | Non categorizzato

United world week 2007: Universal fraternity, work in progress

Oct 12, 2007 | Non categorizzato

“Look around you and see the needs of others. Can you help? Go beyond animosity and prejudice, forgive those who have wronged you. Whatever idea you have – for orphanages, hospices, hospitals – remember, your city is your own!” That was one of the many invitations issued world wide, by Youth for a United World, for United World Week. Since Genfest 1995, and for the last eleven years, United World Week has issued an annual appeal to young people all over the world, to national and international bodies, and to everyone, to support projects that promote unity at all levels. The official start :Sunday October 14. Many projects, however, began on Saturday October 13.There are hundreds of events all over the world in which thousands of young people commit themselves to break down the barriers that divide us – through the sharing of ideas, material goods and experiences. World wide link up on Saturday and Sunday October 20 and 21. The high point of the week is the telephone call linking young people in over 100 cities: this year Nepal and Syria will join in for the first time. The call includes a message for young people by Chiara Lubich, and a sharing of experiences from some of the world’s most distressed areas. Here is a quick overview of some of the projects launched in United World Week: Asia The Philippines Manila – Dare to love. A series of activities at the Bukas Palad social centre, to collect funds for the education of children and the social development of families. On October 20, “U-nite” (Unite + Youth at night) an event of music, experiences and fraternity. On October 22, the “Step Up” concert, with a band from Youth for a United World, and other Philippine acts. Africa Congo In Lubumbashi, 2000 km from Kinshasa, Youth for a United World will visit the children and teenagers in an orphanage. They will play, sing and dance with the children, and share what motivates them. On October 18-19 they will work with other young people in the diocese to build several classrooms, and to tidy up the grounds of the basilica. America Venezuela Caracas: A concert at the Simon Bolivar University will get the week underway. That will be followed by forums on non-violence, and fraternity in politics. Europe Ireland Dublin, October 13. “Intercultural Exchange”. Brazilian samba, Chinese dragon dancing, martial arts, and Irish humour. These and much more at the multicultural fair at University College Dublin. The objective of the day is to celebrate the best aspects of the national groups of which Ireland, an increasingly multicultural country, is now composed. Part of “Intercultural Exchange” will be a workshop on workers and tenants legal rights. www.cinews.ie

A politics of listening, commitment to the common good, and priority for the poorest

Aug 25, 2007 | Non categorizzato

  “Put aside your own ideas, preconceptions and political convictions and learn again to respect your neighbour”. A style of politics which brings together peace and justice, and the common good is the only way to meet the aspirations and expectations of young people. Laurent Moesching, a 22 year old student and president of the 14-strong committee behind the event, welcomed on their behalf the challenge laid down in a message from Chiara Lubich, who began the Movement for Unity in Politics (Focolare). “If you have the courage to listen and to work in common, a new style of political life will emerge”, she wrote. This is an approach eagerly awaited by young people, something evident from the lively dialogue and exchange of experiences with the politicians present at Martigny on August 25 and 26 2007. There were 300 participants, including 100 young people and politicians involved at national, canton, and local level. A moving experience from the Middle East: “Hand in Hand”. This demonstrated how listening and working together are possible even in situations of deep conflict. Sonia Chason and Nebal Bakoey described their involvement in the project, “Hand in Hand” in Jerusalem, a school based on the idea that both Arab and Israeli cultures have important values. Each class has an Arab and an Israeli teacher who prepare the programmes of the courses. Nebal Bakoey explained, “Respect is fundamental to all our relationships. This does not mean that we always have the same opinion, but we give importance to the things we discover together”. The weakest pillar is the most important one. In the main talk, Lucia Fronza Crepaz, president of the MppU (Movement for Unity in Politics) at the international level, presented universal fraternity as the “best category for the inspiration of political action”, and the basis for civil life in a multicultural society, using a striking image. “To test the strength of a bridge, it is important to assess the strength of the weakest column, not the strongest”. The weakest members of our society must have priority, “not out of pity”, she added, “but because the poor, when left to themselves, have no voice in democratic systems” Pop music after the talks. Politics-party: that is how this meeting was announced. After the politics, came the party. The talks gave way to pop music, and debates gave way to dance. The organization was in the hands of young people, and the symbiosis between politics and “party” was a great success.

Solidarity: the race to help victims of the earthquake in Peru

Aug 24, 2007 | Non categorizzato

  Over 500 people are dead, 1600 injured and 20,000 homeless families. The damage to property is impossible to assess. This was the initial assessment of the effects of the earthquake that shook the cities of Pisco, Chincha, Ica and Canete on August 15, 300 km south of the capital, Lima. Members of the community of the Focolare Movement in Peru wrote the following:  “The cities look like war zones. Thousands of families have lost everything: close relatives, homes, food, work… A huge wave of solidarity began throughout the country. Thousands of people come to help the stricken population, donating food, medicine, blankets (it is the middle of winter in Peru). Towns, and associations and businesses have collected tons of humanitarian aid. We have begun work together with organisations like the Red Cross and other NGOs, in order to concentrate our efforts and make what we do more effective. In our houses there is a constant stream of people, those we know and others we don’t, bringing clothing, food, and medicines. The families of the Movement, with their children, have joined an aid project, filling canvas bags with a little jacket, a hat, a book, a soft toy, coloured pencils, a drawing pad, stickers, and a greeting card to a small friend in the affected area. The children are very happy to be able to contribute. The project now involves many children, and thousands of bags will be distributed on September 1 and 2.” AMU (Action for a united world), an NGO of the Focolare Movement, and recognised by the Italian Foreign Ministry, has sent an initial contribution of 7000 dollars for the most urgent needs, and has launched a campaign for funds to ensure continuity of aid in the near future after the emergency phase has passed, for rebuilding homes and finding work to support families If you wish to contribute to the action of solidarity for Peru, you can send your contribution marked “Emergenza Peru” to one of the following accounts: Associazione “Azione per un Mondo Unito – Onlus” Via Frascati 342 – 00040 Rocca di Papa (Roma) Postcode 81065005 or Account number  000000120434, Banca Popolare Etica – Filiale di Roma CIN G – ABI 05018 – CAB 03200 IBAN coordinates: IT16   G050   1803   2000   0000   0120   434 BIC (swift) code : CCRTIT2184D

Helmut Nicklas: “The important role he played in the communion among Christian movements”

Aug 15, 2007 | Non categorizzato

“Helmut Nicklas, was truly a charismatic person for his capability to listen to the voice of God and follow it with radicality”. This is the way Chiara Lubich expressed herself in the message read in St. Matthew’s  Evangelical Lutheran Church, in Munich, on 17 August 2007, during the last farewell to this “beloved friend and true brother” who, with “passion”, spent his life for unity. Helmut Nicklas has concluded his earthly journey on Sunday 12 August, due to a painful sickness and taken ill more than a year ago. He was 68 years old. He was born in Nabburg (Germany), was married and had 2 children. From 1971 to 2002, he was YMCA responsible in Munich (Ecumenical Association for Christian Youth). From 1982 to 1998 he also held the office of vice-president of the YMCA World-Urban-Network (that includes over 2000 associations spread world wide), and since 1985 he has been a member of the Advisory Board of the International Charismatic Consultation. Above all, Chiara Lubich underlined his “decisive role”, carried out during the course of building communion among movements and communities of various Churches. This has been witnessed by the numerous rappresentatives of Evangelical and Catholic communities and movements present at the funeral celebration and by the messages, among which those of Saint Egidio’s Community and Schoenstatt Movement. That journey of communion had started in 1999, and resulted in the big manifestations entitled “Together for Europe”, which have been held in Stuttgart (Germany) in 2004 and last May, in order to contribute in giving a soul to the continent and overcome conflicts and barriers. Already in the 1960’s, there had been a first meeting between Chiara and Helmut. Let us quote Chiara Lubich’s entire message: “I saw Helmut Nicklas again after many years, in 1999 in Ottmaring, together with a number of leaders of Evangelical Lutheran Movements. It was then that a communion began among Movements of different Churches. Ever since then, this journey, in which we participate, has seen various stages all over Europe and beyond, with great, historic developments in the People of God. And Helmut always had a decisive role in the different stages of this journey of communion. In St. Matthew’s church on December 8, 2001, there was an exchange of spiritual gifts that we recall as being very important. After my talk on mutual love, Helmut invited the 800 leaders of different Movements present to make a “pact of mutual love” (Jn 13:34). This pact, renewed on many occasions, is considered to be the foundation of the communion among Movements and will accompany its journey also in the future. Helmut was truly a charismatic person because of his capacity to listen to the voice of God and to follow it in a total way. This capacity gave him vision and filled him with a passion for unity. He was one who served the communion among Movements, one who – as he himself said – must be capable of forgetting about him or herself and the interests of one’s community, and serving others. He gave us an example of this. All of us of the Focolare Movement will always carry Helmut Nicklas in our hearts, beloved friend and true brother.” During the illness, Chiara had kept continuous contact with him through the Focolare members in Germany. Two days before his death, Helmut gave a sort of last testament concerning the communion among movements to Severin Schmid, who had visited him at the clinic in Munich, where he was being hospitalized. This is what he said: “We have lived historical moments. They are like beacons that will also indicate the way for the future. We should remain faithful to all that God has made us live. We should narrate this story.” Helmut Nicklas was one of the two delegates of the German Evangelical Church, invited for the International Congress that preceded the great meeting of the movements and new communities with Pope Benedict XVI, on the eve of Pentecoste 2006. In answering to a question regarding what unites Evangelical and Catholic movements and communities, during an interview with Zenit agency, Helmut Nicklas had answered as follows: “It is the strong conviction that today’s men and women need Jesus Christ that unites us to Catholic movements”.

Switzerland: Chiara Lubich, honorary citizen of Mollens, and an appointment of the youth for the youth, on politics

Aug 14, 2007 | Non categorizzato

“Since 1974, Chiara Lubich spends her summer at Mollens and we are honoured in welcoming this world-known personality, engaged in favour of peace and universal brotherhood among all peoples” These are the motivations backing the acknowledgment of this town, located in the upper Vallese. There will be another appointment taking place in Switzerland, on 25 and 26 August 2007: involving in a special way the youth and politics. This appointment deals with Politics-Party: an initiative inspired by the spirit of Chiara Lubich. This follows other appointments with several Swiss political personalities, among which the Mayor of Mollens, who declared the following, during an interview: “The Political Movement for Unity is a formidable challenge because it proposes an approach which is very different from the politics that we know. Rather than dialectic and conflict confrontation, dialogue is chosen, and this takes place at several levels of political engagement. I hope that our youth may be taken by this reflection, as I feel that this not a minor thing for the future. Let’s not forget our youth will decide politics one day”.

A life experience for a culture of peace

Jun 29, 2007 | Non categorizzato

The “Biseri” (Pearls) nursery school is the first experiment of its kind in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The socialist regime did not allow much freedom of initiative in the field of education, and now the search is on for new reference points and values. In a multiethnic and multifaith country, a place of violent conflicts in the recent past, this school, embedded in a trilingual (Macedonian, Albanian, Turkish) university, will be a laboratory where education to peace can be experienced, and where the students can train and be formed in new pedagogical principles. During the inauguration, Adnan Cahil, the minister of education, expressed his desire that these initiatives might be a stimulus for the future of their society, and that they be multiplied throughout Macedonia and the other countries of South East Europe. In her message for its inauguration Chiara Lubich described the school as a “courageous and innovative idea”. Among the 150 people present, there were representatives of the Government, of the University “S. Kliment Ohridski” and of various educational institutes. The speakers were the Rector, Giorge Martinovski, the Dean Murat Murati, and Valeria Ronchetti, representing Chiara Lubich,. “This is an idea”, Chiara had written, “that finds its deepest meaning in the promotion of unity among persons, peoples, cultures and religions”. “My wish is that the children who attend this school might become “little pearls” and examples for many! And my wish for their teachers is that they can experience the true culture of dialogue and mutual love that is the essential way to build a new society, based on fraternity and peace”. The “Biseri” school is inspired by the educational methods practiced for several years at the nursery school “Ray of the Sun”, at “Faro”, (Krizevci) the little town of the Focolare Movement in Croatia. Founded in 1995, it is based on the educational principles of the pedagogy of communion of the Focolare Movement, and on the method developed by the Agazzi sisters, Italian teachers in the immediate post-war period. It uses didactic material that the child reworks using his or her imagination together with their peers, developing the capacity for collaboration and integration.  Since 1995, there have been many initiatives in the field of primary education, in order to rebuild, starting with the youngest citizens, the social fabric of the region of South East Europe, marked by years of conflict. After “Ray of the Sun”, in Croatia, the “Fantasy” school began in Belgrade. And in order to explore these themes, a post graduate course began February 2007 at the University of Zagreb (Croatia) comprising 180 hours of pedagogy of communion, and the Agazzi method. The educational experience of the “Ray of Sun” nursery school, where Anna Lisa Gasparini, has been working for several years with a team of experts, has been the subject of numerous seminars, supported by EDU (Education and Unity). These have drawn the attention of the Minister of Public Instruction of Croatia, and many universities from neighbouring countries: Serbia, Slovenia, Macedonia, and Albania.  And so the desire was born for a school in Macedonia where ethnic barriers would be overcome, and seeds would be sown for a future of peace.

New frontiers in communication media

May 28, 2007 | Non categorizzato

  «Intermediating», a seminar for students and young professionals involved in mass communications –  Under the drive of the digital revolution, communication skills have multiplied and have become ever more specialised. Nevertheless, there is a continuous “bridging” between one skill and the other: between journalism and business communication, ICT and television, between literature and cinema… Focus – This international course would like to offer a “creative deepening” of particular communication fields (such as, information, cinema and tv, computer science and new technologies, marketing and enterprise/public communication), as well as, inter-disciplinary and intra-disciplinary openings. Who is promoting this seminar: NetOne, a network of professionals, students and operators belonging to five different continents, working and studying in mass communications, with the perspective of a united world. This 5-day course, is going to be held from 18th to 23rd June 2007, at Ciampino (Rome) for 120 young professionals and students between 20 to 35 years, coming from the whole world. The languages used throughout this seminar are Italian and English. Method – The interdisciplinary teachings of Inter-mediating, entrusted to some mass media experts, will offer to the participants, during the plenary sessions, an overall view of the communication reality they are working in. The remaining part of the programme will be divided into distinct workshops, each according to the field of communications. Time is allotted for contributions enhancing cohesion within the group: “exercises of dialogue and interpersonal communication”. In fact, an integral part of Intermediating will be the working method, based on this “living together” of the teachers and students and on their ongoing dialogue between them. There will be a visit to RAI, Vatican Radio and European Space Agency (ESA) in Frascati. Monday, 18th June 2007, the school will open to the surrounding territory for an evening – open to public – with the presence of Sergio Maistrello, giving a presentation of his last book, entitled: “The inhabited part of the Net”. If you wish to know more or if you wish to enroll:   www.net-one.org

AMU: Twenty years together, promoting international solidarity

May 27, 2007 | Non categorizzato

AMU – Action for a united world (Azione per un Mondo Unito): an NGO with a familiar name in the field of international cooperation, that began with the aim of promoting projects in the southern hemisphere, and spreading a culture of dialogue and unity between peoples. Over the years AMU has created 20 long-term development projects in Argentina, Brazil, Guatemala, Ivory Coast, Uganda, the Philippines and Croatia, It has also supported over 260 micro-projects, designed and carried out in response to local needs, and working with local communities, in many countries throughout Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The objective of all cooperative activities of AMU is the total development of the community that receives aid, achieved through the social and educational commitment of members of the Focolare Movement, present in those countries. One of the aims of the meeting next June 2 and 3, which is for supporters of AMU and anyone interested in cooperation and development, is to recap the story of AMU, interviewing those who have been involved. It will also look, via video linkup, at development projects in Palestine and Congo, and in Argentina and Indonesia at projects that are helping these countries to pass from emergency situations back to normal life.  A session called “AMU for a culture of fraternity”, will explore the concept of global awareness and citizenship. The final session will be devoted to the cultural implications of  “development and reciprocity” and the conclusion will look ahead to future projects and ideas in Italy and the rest of the world.  www.azionemondounito.org

AMU in figures

May 24, 2007 | Non categorizzato

Principal ongoing projects D R Congo: social and health project, prevention and treatment of AIDS (Kinshasa) Cameroon: health, educational and cultural services, in Lebialem Division Brazil:  formation and micro enterprise development at Benevides (Parà) Argentina: rehabilitation centre for disabled children (Rosario) Uruguay: social animation and professional formation (Montevideo) Palestine: peace education and economic support for families (Bethlehem) Lebanon: social and economic reconstruction in the south after the 2006 war Vietnam: family assistance to prevent the abandonment of children (Kontum and Binh Duong) South East Asia: Emergency and reconstruction aid after the tsunami of 2004 Sudan: Schooling for child victims of the civil war Current microprojects Professional and school education (Algeria, Brazil, Burundi, Kenya, Pakistan) Infrastructure and hygiene (Ivory Coast, Pakistan, Tanzania) Child and family support (Brazil, Bolivia, India, Vietnam) Economic and social development (Argentina, Cameroon, Colombia, Kenya, Madagascar, Paraguay) Development Education projects “ABC … of solidarity for peace education and the development of the new united Europe”; “Water for all! International year of fresh water”, Water campaign 2003; “Water: a common good, everyone’s right” Principal formation courses for school teachers and staff The “other” in the teaching relationship (Benevento, March 2003) Intercultural integration (first, second and third course in Treviso, November 2004,2005, 2006) Education to values for responsible citizenship (Rome, February 2004) From fragmentation to unity. The point of view of the educator, the point of view of education (Rome, April 2004) Teaching and Intercultural methodology (Treviso, November 2004) Global village or global supermarket? Topics for reflection in economics and globalisation (Grottaferrata, November 2004) Education in knowledge and values, for an active and responsible citizenship (Piacenza, December 2004) Water a common good for all: education to active citizenship (Cagliari, January 2005) Encounter, the icon of pro-sociality (Caserta, January 2005) Relationships in the practice of the Law: is there space for fraternity? (Rome, November 2005) Active citizenship: communication and civil life (Caserta, March 2006) … the city as a school: international convention on pedagogy (Rome, April 2006) Education to active and responsible citizenship (Perugia, March 2006) Information sources Magazine: AMU notizie (news) Every three months Video: “Magnificat, a land of hope”, “Side by side” DVD:  AMU rehabilitation projects in South East Asia

Together for Europe 2007

May 11, 2007 | Non categorizzato

The great manifestation “Together for Europe” started off in a festive atmosphere. This event is the outcome of an ongoing growing process of communion among Catholic, Evangelical, Orthodox and Anglican Movements from all over Europe. The 8,000 adherents gathered here belong to over 250 Christian Movements and Communities. Pope Benedict XVI’s message, signed by the Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcizio Bertone, wished that the initiative “strengthens the desire of communion” that animates this ecclesial reality and “contributes towards loosening prejudices, overcoming nationalisms and historical barriers and spurring on the commitment so that Europe’s spiritual dimension may not come short in these post-modern times”. Together for Europe: It is a life programme extends its roots in day-to-day living, which was traced out this morning at Stuttgart. “To whom should we go to? Where should we go? It is the question we ask ourselves regarding the future of Europe”, said Ulrich Parzany – Evangelical Pastor promoter of the evangelisation project ProChrist. “Along with the enthusiasm for Europe, a sense of scepticism, fear of enduring disadvantages has taken over. The currents of our times toss us here and there. With serene confidence we repeat: Lord, to whom should we go to? You have words of life”. He is the answer to the questions of the youth, as highlighted by Nicky Gumble, Anglican, responsible for the evangelisation courses Alpha International born in the Anglican Church: “Youth look for transcendence, a scope in their life”. Andrea Riccardi, founder of Saint Egidio Community,  spoke about the historical deep current that is becoming ever more important. “In an Europe with rigid institutions, where processes delay and politicians hesitate, there is a need for – he said – a prophetic people, capable of provoking a sentiment of unity that becomes a vital current among our European, Christian and non-Christian, believing and non-believing co-citizens, so that Europe may promote a new current of passion for unity, capable of overpowering rigidity and boundaries. In this way, Europe may look beyond its frontiers, towards Africa where two thirds are excluded from well being”. Chiara Lubich deepened the source from which a new current of life gushes out. Her words – read by one of her first companions, Bruna Tomasi – touched the mystery of Jesus in that moment on the cross when he cries out his abandonment. In him, there is the image of every wound, darkness, doubt, inner trouble. “In recognising and loving him, present in every countenance of sorrow, – she concluded – we could welcome the cry of today’s  humanity and having redeemed everything through his cry, we can create around us a renewed society that the world awaits”. In the afternoon the testimony of the Gospel vitality in the renewal of the family, economy and work, the day-to-day life in multicultural cities, old and new poverties, justice and peace. With the participation of political personalities such as the Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi and the Vice President of the European Commission Jacques Barrot. (From Stuttgart, Carla Cotignoli for Vatican Radio)

Jesus, our “travelling companion” to be “Rays of light beyond the Darkness”

May 9, 2007 | Non categorizzato

«You young people represent the future: tomorrow’s world will be in your hands and this often gives you antennas to tune into special waves, those that know how to transmit daring projects, like the dream of a new world, a more united one. The title of today’s program is also a confirmation of this: “Rays of Light Beyond the Darkness.” Yes, immersed like everyone in the struggles of our day, your hearts and minds are convinced that a radiant dawn will give meaning to your search. Only Jesus has said: “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life” and whoever encounters and follows him finds the Light. Also Lorenzo, a young martyr from the beginning of Christianity, in looking at Jesus found the courage to say to his persecutors: “My night has no darkness, and all things are full of light to me.” We often hear said that humanity today is living through one of the darkest nights in history, that we are in need of light, a light that can break through the darkness. My experience, the experience of many in the Focolare Movement, shows us that God has not left us alone, not even in the darkest of nights. It was a discovery that totally changed our lives. When Jesus on the cross cried out: “My God, my God, why have your forsaken me?” he took on every darkness, the sufferings of every human being in every era. This is an infinite mystery, the limitless measure of his love for us. And from that moment, every suffering took on one name: Jesus forsaken. He would reveal himself to us in a thousand ways: isn’t the person in anguish, or lonely, separated, disoriented similar to him? Isn’t Jesus forsaken the image of every form of division, of yearning for God, of alienation, and violence? And don’t you think it is stupendous to be able to share with him the sufferings that are within us and in every person we meet? If this is true, then we can choose Jesus forsaken as our “travelling companion” in life, and welcome him into our heart as the most precious pearl. Dearest young people, in looking at Jesus forsaken, you will be able to face up to any situation. In fact, you will be like “rays of light” in your environments, so as to guide our humanity towards universal brotherhood». Chiara Lubich

The spiritual atmosphere of Europe can change: Christian movements and communities are in Stuttgart, in preparation for the “Together for Europe” gathering

May 9, 2007 | Non categorizzato

“The spiritual atmosphere of Europe can change”, Gerhard Pross, evangelical Christian of the YMCA in Germany, said this morning, speaking to 3000 people in the Liederhalle in Stuttgart. This is what Vatican Radio said: What is going on in Stuttgart is more than a congress, it is a deep spiritual experience. The testimonies of what the Holy Spirit is doing in Europe, mostly out of the gaze of the media, speak louder than words. “It is the strong witness”, said Gerhard Pross, “of a call of God to go out and bring new life to the desert of our society”. He referred to the first words of the newly elected Pope, Benedict XVI, saying “Our society has lost hope that the spiritual atmosphere of Europe can change”. “Where can we draw strength? From Jesus Christ. In Him is the source of the great riches of the spiritual life that we experience.” This experience will become stronger and more effective, the more it is lived in communion. In fact, “Together for Europe” is more than just an event. It is the experience of a journey that is growing and in depth and breadth, among catholic and evangelical, orthodox and Anglican movements and communities, and also those of the free churches of Europe. It is a journey that began in 1999, marked by an important step in 2004: the first preparatory congress and large-scale gathering, also held in Stuttgart. “God is the one at work in this ‘journey’ “, said Pross, “He is the one who has made possible the many sources of grace that the people of our time can draw on, to quench the deep thirst that they feel”. There are many striking effects of this journey. In Leipzig, sixteen movements together have been a sign of reconciliation for non-believers. They are new stimulus for overcoming persistent fears and diffidence between East and West Germany. In Albania, in a similar meeting, there are people from Kosovo: “A ray of light”. In Copenhagen, Denmark, the movements are breaking down prejudice between Catholics and Protestants. In Switzerland, a large day meeting with 48,000 people. All 2008 towns and villages are there with their flags, and a national movement of prayer is launched, the sign of a renewed spirit of faith and reconciliation. This morning they meditated on the spirituality of unity with a reading from a talk by Chiara Lubich. This afternoon, the participants are meeting in 20 different forums looking at a wide variety of spiritual and social themes. Carla Cotignoli for Vatican Radio

“Together for Europe”, Stuttgart May 12. Two hundred and fifty movements and communities from various Churches, building bridges between cultures and Nations

May 2, 2007 | Non categorizzato

After three years of preparation, the second international gathering in Stuttgart on May 12, linked by satellite to parallel events in many European cities, is about to happen. Thousands of people from Western and Central Europe will be present at the Hanns-Martin Schleyer Halle, and simultaneous gatherings will take place in cities such as Paris, Moscow, Belfast, Madrid, Budapest and Prague. Afterwards, in the second half of May, the Stuttgart experience will be lived all over again in over 30 of the main cities of Italy. What is “Together for Europe?” It is a meeting of witness, inspired by the values of fraternity and sharing. It offers a way of overcoming prejudice, nationalism, historical wounds, social conflict, the fear of the future and loss of identity, and an answer to the big questions of meaning and values. “TOGETHER”, two hundred and fifty communities and movements from all over Europe meeting to build bridges between different cultures and peoples, between citizens and institutions, and to give a new impetus to the construction of the continent. THE PROGRAMME The historical, cultural and spiritual dimensions will be explored by:  Ulrich Parzany, evangelical pastor and leader of the Pro-Christ movement for evangelisation; Nicky Gumbel, president of Alpha International, which came to life in the Anglican Church; Andrea Riccardi, founder of the St Egidio Community; and Chiara Lubich, founder of the Focolare Movement. The second part of the event will focus on experiences and initiatives drawn from different parts of Europe, illustrating how the movements and new communities: support and encourage family life influence the world of work and  the economy build relationships of fraternity and solidarity with the poor and the marginalised are committed to justice and peace in the world work for social cohesion in the cities and respond to the challenge of multiculturalism. Dialogue with representatives of European civil and ecumenical institutions. The dialogue will begin by describing progress since the 2004 event, and end with a view of the future. Those invited to participate include: Jacques Barrot, Vice President of the European Commission; Romano Prodi, Prime Minister of Italy; Walter Kasper, President of the Pontifical Council for the Union of Christians; Anastasios Yannulatos, the Orthodox Archbishop of Tirana and the whole of Albania, and one of the Presidents of the World Council of Churches; Arnold de Clermont, President of the Conference of European Churches (KEK) and of the Protestant Federation in France.               The conclusion will be a Message to Europe. This will be a declaration of commitment by movements and communities of the various Christian churches, and a proposal for the involvement of politicians and civil society.    Artistic contributions from various countries and cultures will run through the whole programme, demonstrating the wealth and variety of the European patrimony Since 2004… “Together for Europe” is, more than anything, a new journey of communion among movements and communities of different Churches, a “test bed” of Europe as a family of united peoples. The first large gathering at Stuttgart on May 8 2004, which, thanks to the effect of the media, reached almost 100,000 Europeans, present at simultaneous and other meetings, marked a stage of this journey. It is a growing process: one hundred and seventy movements and communities involved in 2004; two hundred and fifty in 2007. The event coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome in 1957; with Europe Week commemorating the end of the Second World War on May 8 1945; and Europe Day, May 9, the anniversary of Robert Schuman’s historical declaration of 1950, proposing a community at the service of peace, forerunner of the European Union.  “Together for Europe” will be preceded and prepared by the congress “Together on the way” for those responsible for, and co-workers from, the various Movements and communities, in Stuttgart from May 10-11. Over 20 forums and 16 round table discussions will address many topics including: evangelisation, ecumenism, marriage and the family, the defence of life, political commitment, immigration, economics, the environment, mass media, peace and justice.   Promoters of the event The promoters of the event are: Friedrich Aschoff, Charismatic Renewal in the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Germany; Christophe D’Aloisio, Syndesmos – a fraternity of 126 orthodox youth organisations; Nicky Gumbel, Alpha International  – evangelisation courses which came to life in the Anglican Church; Chiara Lubich, Focolare Movement; Michael J. Marmann, Schönstatt (catholic); Helmut Nicklas, YMCA, international ecumenical youth organisation; Ulrich Parzany, Pro Christ, evangelisation initiative born in the evangelical Lutheran church; Gerhard Pross, Coordinator of periodical meetings for those responsible for Evangelical Movements and communities; Andrea Riccardi, Saint Egidio community; Thomas Römer, YMCA, Munich; Gérard Testard, Fondacio – born in the catholic church in France; Sr. Anna-Maria aus der Wiesche, Fraternity of Christ, of Selbitz, born in the evangelical Lutheran tradition. For more information: www.europ2007.org

Brazil – Aiming at overcoming the technological gap

Apr 18, 2007 | Non categorizzato

The project consists in recuperating computers dismissed by public and private bodies, in order to distribute them to schools, libraries and other institutions that do not have the means of purchasing new ones. In order to carry out this project, the Economic Development Minister and the Bank of Brazil Foundation elected Afago Centre as partner, for its seriousness in the job carried out in favour of the less well-to-do persons. Objective: overcoming of the technological gap – President Luiz Inacio Lula, at the inauguration of the Centre, underlined that the access to knowledge permits the reduction of social differences: “It is cheaper to build schools, than prisons,” he affirmed, while committing himself to equip all public schools with a broad band internet connection by the end of 2010. Present at the inauguration, besides President Lula and his wife, there was also tbe Minister of Economic Development, Paulo Bernardo, the Governor of the Bank of Brazil, Jacques Penna, the Federal District President of Brazilia, members of the federal government, aside from journalists of the most important Brazilian newspapers and TV networks. During the visit at the Afago Centre, President Lula spent some time with various young volunteers of the Centre, some of whom have been helped since infancy by “support at a distance,” carried out by Afago Centre in collaboration with New Families. “While conversing with R. for some minutes – Lula said – I understood that he will always be a man with a great soul, ready to help others because he has learnt to do so since childhood, thanks his insertion into a community.” What is the Afago Centre? – In 1990’s, while facing the serious situation of the street children, and with the concurrence of the launching of the “Adoptions at a distance” by the New Families, also known as the “Support at a distance,” the Afago-Df association was constituted. Presently, this association helps 220 children and adolescents, with ages varying from 4 to 14 years, who attend regularly the Centre and can make use of the canteen, and runs activities in education, computer science and sports.

Together for Europe

Apr 15, 2007 | Non categorizzato

 More than 11,000 people, from all over Europe, will come together at the Hanns Martin Schleyer Halle. The event will be linked by satellite with simultaneous meetings in many European cities. It is an event that testifies to something new in European history; a journey of fellowship which is growing all the time, among movements, communities and associations of various Churches, that stretches like a network across the whole continent from the Atlantic to the Urals. It aims to offer to Europe the experience of a “people”, a foretaste of unity lived in diversity. In the midst of the social, cultural, political and spiritual challenges that Europe faces at this time, “Together for Europe 2007” aims to witness, above all through experience, to the continual light that comes from living the Gospel in various situations: in the family; in cities that are increasingly multicultural and multifaith; in economics; in politics; with the poor and “new poor”; and in ecology. The meeting “Together for Europe” will be preceded and prepared by the Congress “TOGETHER, ON THE WAY”, for leaders and their fellow workers, from the movements and communities. It will also take place in Stuttgart, from May 10-11, 2007

The witness of Ginetta: the Gospel, a social revolution

Mar 6, 2007 | Non categorizzato

On March 8, six years after the death of Ginetta Calliari, one of the leading figures in the Focolare Movement in Brazil, the Catholic Church will, at the start of her beatification process, begin a study of her life, with a view to recognising her as a model of Christian living. The process will be opened in the cathedral of Osasco, near Sao Paulo, at 20.00 local time. Ginetta was, for many religious civil and political leaders in Brazil, a spiritual guide and a source of inspiration for their ideals and activities. Over the 42 years that she lived in that country, Ginetta gave her all to spreading the culture of fraternity and the ideal of unity, the distinctive characteristics  of the Focolare. With resolute faith in the transforming power of the Gospel, she drew thousands of Brazilians into this adventure and gave life to numerous social and cultural works.   She was one of the first champions of the Economy of Communion, a project launched by Chiara Lubich in Brazil. This aims to help bridge the gap between rich and poor, by involving producers of goods and services, in a wide variety of business sectors, in the allocation of part of their profits to social concerns.   Ginetta Calliari (1918-2001), born in Trento (Italy), was with Chiara Lubich right from the beginning of the Focolare Movement in the 1940s. In 1959, she was among the first young focolarini to leave for Brazil, the first nation outside of Europe where the Movement spread. The Movement now numbers about 300,000 people in 61 places.