Imagination gives color to solidarity

Jan 24, 2005 | Non categorizzato

 Among the numerous initiatives started up by the Focolare Movement in the tsunami-stricken countries as well as in other parts of the world, those being carried out by the youth have become a competition in who can show the most solidarity. Here are some flashes: – Milan (Italy): A considerable number of youth participated in the torchlight procession organized by the Associazione Arcobaleno (“Rainbow Association”), a foreigners’ reception center, managed by Focolare people. Also present on the occasion were nationals of the Sri Lanka community living in this capital of Italy’s Lombardy region, many of whom had victims of the disaster in their own families. The procession ended in the Cathedral square, where members of the community, both Buddhist and Christian, shared their experiences. Especially touching was that of an Italian worker of the Associazione Arcobaleno, who publicly thanked the Ceylonese people for their generosity. The worker’s daughter and son-in-law, who were spending their honeymoon in one of the Ceylonese tourist spots when the tsunami took place, were saved miraculously by local residents, together with about 20 other tourists. – Germany: The Schoenstatt Movement and some communities of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church joined Focolare efforts to send their aid contributions through the Focolare Movement’s contacts in the stricken areas. – Time-Out: Everyday at noon, Focolare members all over the world pause for a minute of silence and prayer for peace. This initiative began in 1990 when the first Gulf War erupted. Today, the victims of the Southeast Asian disaster have become the primary intention of this prayer. – Prayer vigils: Many prayer vigils coupled with fund-raising efforts were held. Among the latest was that of January 18 in Grottaferrata, Rome, which coincided with the start of the Week of Prayer for Christian unity where the Movement participates in many ecumenical activities. As in all parts of the world, Focolare youth took the Christmas and New Year celebrations as occasions to raise funds for tsunami victims. Here are a few examples from Italy: – Loppiano: the proceeds of the traditional New Year’s Celebration were given to tsunami victims (€2.100) – Ancona: “Old Fairy’s Stocking” was the name given to the project of the ‘Youth for a United World’, who raised funds through the sale of traditional holiday items in the parishes on January 6. – Tours were organized in Anagni (in the province of Frosinone) and bingos held for young and old in St. Anastasia (a locality in the region of Naples).

Argentina: courses in fraternity now available on-line

Jan 24, 2005 | Non categorizzato

Youth who want to spend their energies in their own community In Argentina, the first school of formation in politics for the youth, promoted by the Political Movement for Unity, has been launched in 9 cities. Thanks to the internet, the project operates simultaneously in Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Rosario, José C. Paz, Avellaneda, La Plata, Mar del Plata, Bahia Blanca, and Neuquen. 140 young people have been attending these courses in political formation since last May; they expect from politics the fulfillment of a dream: a united world, while exploring the concrete facts that could make it happen. They are youth who want to spend their energies in their own community. How the courses are run The school’s objective is to offer the instruments that render possible collective and innovative action in the social and political fields, by means of courses that are held in the participants’ respective cities. The course consists of discussions, differentiated projects concerned with local action, and seminars for all the students, twice a year. The students gather in their respective cities guided by an instructor, and interact virtually with the other professors and communities.

The journey towards communion moves on

Jan 23, 2005 | Non categorizzato

  The large-scale event entitled “Together for Europe”, held last May in Stuttgart (Germany) was not only a milestone in the journey towards communion involving over 150 movements and groups of the Catholic and Evangelical-Lutheran, Anglican and Orthodox Churches; it also gave visibility to the wealth of the Christian faith in the different Churches. In these past months, the occasions to meet and work together were not lacking, as preparations for a new appointment on a global level are underway. This week offers an occasion to open a window onto the Orthodox, Anglican, and Evangelical-Lutheran worlds, by starting from three realities – spread throughout the world – which were highlighted on May 8, 2004 in Stuttgart, namely, the Orthodox fraternity called Syndesmos; the Alpha Course, which was started by an Anglican parish; and the YMCA, a youth association which originated in Europe and is very active in Germany and in many other countries around the world. – The Syndesmos (“bonds of unity”) fraternity which started in 1953, gathers together 121 Orthodox theological schools and youth movements, in 43 nations. Its specific aim is to develop communication between Orthodox youth movements and theological schools in different parts of the world, and promote a deeper understanding among them. It also encourages one��s commitment to live out the Gospel in our day and age. – Alpha Course, was born in the 1970’s is being given in 152 countries and its materials are translated in 47 languages. It is open to people of all backgrounds, with a special interest in the youth and in those who do not profess a particular faith. The ten-week course, based on the Gospel, introduces people to the basics of the Christian faith. – YMCA, a Christian association for the youth, was born in London in 1844 and is now spread all over the world. Its aim is to promote social change by giving the youth a Christian formation through sports and other educational activities, as well as acts of service to persons in need, particularly refugees and migrants.

[:it]Il ruolo dei giovani[:es]El papel de los jóvenes[:pt]A função dos jovens

Jan 23, 2005 | Non categorizzato

That which unites us

Jan 23, 2005 | Non categorizzato

  Since my father was a Jew and my mother was a non-churchgoer, I was not educated in the Christian faith. I learned about faith in Jesus only when I was 18 years old, and from then on, I want to talk about him to people like me. This is what Alpha offers. It is mainly for people who do not frequent the Church, those who do not consider themselves Christians. The Alpha Course is founded on the Gospel. It runs over 10 weeks and includes a meal together, a talk and small group discussions. What has happened over the past 11 years has touched us positively. The Alpha Course is running in 152 countries and in 30,000 parishes. It has been translated into 47 languages and reaches out to all social categories. In the United Kingdom, there are 160 existing prisons; of 70,000 detainees housed in 124 (=80%) of these prisons, over 30,000 have attended an Alpha Course. It has also aroused particular interest among the youth. The Course is used by many Churches, reuniting Christians in their common mission of evangelization. It is supported by the leaders of the major Christian Churches. During the Course, which is focused on the person of Christ, we teach that which unites us as Christians. We have understood that what unites us is infinitely greater than what divides us. (Nicky Gumbel – London)

Translated from – Insieme per l’Europa – Il grande appuntamento di Stoccarda tra movimenti e comunità di varie chiese cristiane – supplemento of Città Nuova N. 10/2004

A true story

Jan 23, 2005 | Non categorizzato

Ivan grew up in Zagreb (Croatia). During the Balkan war, he and his family made it to escape to Germany. However, the violence of the war produced profoundly negative effects on Ivan that led him to aggressiveness and dependence on drugs and alcohol. There were those who thought he could never be rehabilitated. He was invited to the CVJM (German YMCA) Center. For the first time he heard someone speak of God’s love for each person. There he learned that Jesus is forgiving and brings back peace among men.

Stories of this kind encourage us to keep going to form strong children and youth and a solid society. In our YMCA groups – there are a great variety of them – deep friendships are often built. Children are given the opportunity to prove themselves and discover their hidden talents as they get involved in sports activities, games, hobbies or music, for example. Vacations or traveling are ideal occasions for them to experience faith, trust and the joy of getting along with others.

During our meetings we try to dedicate ourselves particularly to young people who come from difficult social situations or who feel alienated. We try to make them feel welcome and listen to them. Our groups try to develop expertise in social action, the capacity to build relationships and solve conflicts, as well as a sense of responsibility in the youth.

The YMCA Movement was born in London as an ecumenical movement in 1844; from then it spread throughout the world as the largest Christian-ecumenical movement for the youth. In Germany alone, there are 30,000 volunteers (men and women) and 700 consultants who work full-time for the youth.

(Mathias Ritter – Katja Muessig)

I don’t understand it, but I forgive

Jan 14, 2005 | Non categorizzato

I thought it would be just like any other evening, but it wasn’t. After some insistent invitations, I gave up my swimming course, and decided to join a meeting of a group of families that live the spirituality of unity. I went home happy and deeply touched: I had found something great to live for. I could hardly wait to tell my husband all about it. I found him sleeping but I woke him up; he did not take me too seriously, however. At first, I only thought of how those meetings could help J. change certain negative traits of his personality, but very soon I understood that I was the one who had to change. I began by forgiving certain things that happened in the past which I was never able to forget. Then I tried to be more tolerant, to have more love for everybody, and to make the first step in loving, without expecting anything in return. My family saw how much I changed, and after some time, J. agreed to attend the meetings with me. I watched as he absorbed the atmosphere of brotherhood that there was, until he became an active member and put himself at everyone’s service. My husband also decided to bring our children to the meetings. He was also ready to put his minivan at the disposal of those in our neighborhood who would have liked to attend the meetings, and so help them save transport money. But he was not able to do these things because after a few days, not only did he lose his job, but his very life was threatened. Some time later, he was summoned to appear in his former office. He knew it was extremely dangerous, but he decided to go. At that appointment, he met his death. It was a heavy blow for me, but I felt that God had almost been preparing my husband and me for what was going to happen. I prayed that this suffering would not just pass but that I could offer it so that the person who had done us so much harm might repent. I don’t understand why this happened to us; however, anger and revenge have not entrapped me. I tried to do all I could so that my children – 12- and 9-year-olds – would overcome their anger and be able to forgive. Jesus’ words on pardon and on love for one’s enemies are my source of strength day by day. An acquaintance of ours knew who was to blame, and he hinted that if I wanted to, I could obtain revenge. “No!” I answered. “I leave him to God’s justice. We are all His children and this person needs time to repent.” J. had experienced God’s love for us. I had this sentence inscribed on his tomb: “Tell this to everyone: God loves you immensely.” (B.L. – Colombia) Translated from L’amore vince. Trenta storie vere raccontate dai protagonisti,” Published by Città Nuova

[:it]Se siamo uniti …

Jan 13, 2005 | Non categorizzato

Gen Verde in Japan

Jan 12, 2005 | Non categorizzato

 “Together with you, we want to be instruments of peace.” “The seed of peace has grown in me.” “This indeed is the most sublime artistic expression: to give strength and hope.” These are just a few of the comments from the numerous audiences (a total of about 17,000 people) of the Gen Verde concerts in the Japanese cities of Tokyo, Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya and Nagano. The Gen Verde performing arts group, one of the artistic expressions of the Focolare Movement, spent 68 days in Japan, from Sept. 24 to December 1, 2004. They had been invited to perform by the Rissho Kosei-kai (RKK), a Japanese Buddhist movement with which Chiara Lubich and the Focolare in Japan have been engaged in profound interreligious dialogue since 1979. Onstage the Gen Verde presented Prime Pagine (The First Pages). The musical, which was translated into Japanese specifically for this tour, traces the origins of the Focolare Movement in its re-discovery of the Gospel, especially Jesus’ priestly prayer, “Father, may they all be one,” the fulfillment of which it aims to pursue. Hoping the concert tour would bring forth fruits of peace and brotherhood On October 1, RKK President Nichiko Niwano offered an official welcome dinner to Gen Verde. “Let us exchange our best wishes that the concert tour may bring forth fruits of peace and fraternity, and that whoever sees us might exclaim – seeing the reciprocal love between RKK and Gen Verde – ‘see how they love one another’. A wish which came true: the concert tour promoted by the Japanese movement contributed to the progress of Buddhist-Christian dialogue and to deepening the unity between the Focolare Movement and the Rissho Kosei-kai. Going deep into the heart of the Japanese people The tour – Paola Stradi of Gen Verde commented – was a chance to learn first-hand about the sufferings which the Japanese nation has endured. “During the 68 days of our stay, these people kept surprising us with their traits: pronounced and delicate at the same time, determined and indomitable yet very sensitive to spiritual values. We tried to share in the sorrows they had gone through, such as the tragedy of the atomic bomb and its consequences at Nagasaki and Hiroshima; there, we invited the public to begin the concert with a moment of silence for peace. The recent violent typhoon and earthquake at Niigata inspired us to make our performance a sign of concrete solidarity. Numerous contacts Aside from the 17,000 people met during Gen Verde’s 9 performances, another 2,120 people participated in the Koriukai, the meetings to exchange experiences and comments, aimed at establishing a deeper dialogue. A performance-meeting was also held for 215 university students, upon the invitation of the Salesian Sisters. Moreover, Gen Verde met the Archbishop of Nagasaki, the bishop of Hiroshima and a number of priests and religious. Cardinal Shirayanagi, Archbishop of Tokyo, offered some remarks during the performance held on Nov. 14 at the Fumon Hall, in the presence of Nichiko Niwano, President of RKK and his daughter Kosho, designated as RKK’s future president. Cardinal Shirayanagi and Kosho introduced the Gen Verde on this occasion. Also the Apostolic Nuncio in Japan, His Excellency Ambrose De Paoli, was present. Visits to Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine The tour gave the Gen Verde the chance to come into direct contact with Japanese culture as well as with Shintoism and traditional Buddhism. Venerable Takeuchi had reserved for them a particularly warm welcome in an atmosphere of true brotherhood. He had been in Italy last April to participate at the first Buddhist-Christian symposium promoted by the Focolare. Ceremonies in honor of the founder of the Rissho Kosei-kai The official motive for inviting Gen Verde was the commemoration of Nikkyo Niwano, founder of Rissho Kosei-kai, the ceremonies of which were held on October 2 at Tokyo’s Fumon Hall. On this occasion, the memory of his death on October 4, 1999, was evoked – “the day of St. Francis,” the Buddhist friends recalled. A beautiful coincidence that among the songs translated by the Gen Verde into Japanese there was also “St. Francis’ Prayer”. 3,000 people were present, while over a million followed the event via satellite. So it was with the second ceremony, held at the Sacred Hall on November 15, to commemorate the founder’s birthday, with the participation of 7,000 people. The first part of the ceremonies consisted in a solemn prayer led by Nichiko Niwano and his daughter Kosho. The message sent by Chiara Lubich for the occasion was warmly received, especially her invitation “to live and work together with renewed commitment, with dedication and trust, continually supporting one another, so as to build unity in the human family.” On November 20, also in the Sacred Hall, Gen Verde offered songs and experiences to 1,500 Buddhist youth, leaders of local groups from all parts of Japan. At the conclusion of the concert tour, a television interview with Gen Verde, transmitted on the monthly “link-up” reached over 6 million people. Sayonara, Goodbye Japan! Here are a few of the numerous impressions gathered after the performances which, like a “thermometer” , are a gauge of the atmosphere experienced during the concerts: “You have re-awakened the love of God within me and made me aware that it is this love which makes me live.” “The seed of peace has grown in me. Even during the earthquake I felt the power of love.” “I want to be a person who gives.” “I understood that even in the midst of suffering I exist for other people.” As Gen Verde left Japan, Paola Stradi affirmed: “We have been enriched, our hearts have been expanded, we have gained new strength. In each city, President Niwano had marvelous flower compositions arranged to welcome us. But an even more intense fragrance continues to follow us – the fragrance of those hearts we have come to meet, and are now living with renewed determination for a more united world.”

[:it]I carismi: un Vangelo dispiegato nei secoli

Dec 30, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Charisms: the Gospel unfolded over the centuries

Dec 30, 2004 | Non categorizzato

   “The Church – through the various charisms given her by the Spirit – appeared to us as the Gospel incarnate. Every religious family is a particular incarnation of a feature of Jesus, of a fact that occurred in his life, of one of his sufferings or one of his words … Because of all these charisms that have blossomed over the centuries, the Church is the image of the Gospel unfolded over time and space.” These were some of the words of Chiara Lubich’s lectio, read during the conferment of the honorary doctorate in Theology of Consecrated Life by the “Claretianum” Institute of the Lateran Pontifical University in Rome, which particularly specializes on that branch of theological studies.

Prof. Santiago M. González Silva, president of the Institute, opened the ceremony by presenting the Focolare Movement’s spirituality of unity to over 400 students, from 57 nations and 177 religious institutes. After listening to a novel rendition of Veni Creator, the president spoke about the foundress of the Focolare, saying: “In Chiara Lubich we can contemplate a clear reflection of a ‘word’ of the Gospel which has gone beyond the limits of the Church, reaching all regions of this planet: the new commandment o Jesus, ‘Love one another as I loved you’ (Jn 13,34).”

Prof. Fabio Ciardi, O.M.I. of Claretianum, in offering the laudatio, recalled his meeting with the Focolare spirituality during his youth, and his surprise at seeing that Chiara felt the need to share in the charism of all the saints”. He then illustrated the basic motivations for the award: � for having elaborated a doctrine on the charisms of the consecrated life, with her singular intuition that they are Christ, the living Gospel, unfolded over the centuries; � for having opened the spirituality of communion – characteristic of the Focolare – to the various forms of consecrated life (tens of thousands of men and women religious are in contact with this spirituality); � for having created an original form of consecrated life: the Focolare. The doctorate degree is also a sign of recognition for the work founded by Chiara Lubich, in which not only the different vocations of the Christian community, but also members of other Christian denominations, as well as of other religions, are involved.

[:it]Emergenza sud-est asiatico: come posso aiutare?

Dec 29, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]Dissipare le tenebre del sospetto e costruire ponti di dialogo[:es]Disipar las tinieblas de la sospecha y construir puentes de diálogo[:pt]Dissipar as trevas da suspeita e construir pontes de diálogo

Dec 28, 2004 | Non categorizzato

“It is love that can make the unity among Christians progress”

Dec 12, 2004 | Non categorizzato

 From the Vatican Radio News service of December 23, 2004 Q: During these days of your Conference, the attendance of Bishops from different Churches has been more numerous than expected, I believe. How would you explain this? A: I would attribute this to the fact that Istanbul, formerly Constantinople, this land, Turkey itself, is a country which has ancient Christian roots. It is rich in history and has numerous sacred places. This was what attracted a great number of bishops to come here and live an experience of unity in this very place. It has been a special meeting, a very enriching experience which has renewed us spiritually as we came in contact with early Christianity: with the Orthodox, the Syrian Orthodox, the Apostolic Armenians and Catholics of different rites. It was an absolutely exceptional and extraordinary event, something to praise God for. Q: Your Conference took place right at a time when historic events were happening in the relationship between Constantinople and Rome, to be precise, the return of the relics of two great Fathers of the Church, St. John Chrysostom and St. Gregory Nazianzen, so-called “the Theologian.” Moreover, you have had more direct contacts with the Patriarch. Could you tell us the significance of this conference for you? A: The return of the relics after so many centuries was, for the Christians here and for Turkey as well, a very powerful and deeply moving sign of hope. I was impressed by how much the bishops of the Anglican and Evangelical-Lutheran Churches – who were assisting for the first time at the veneration of relics by Orthodox and Catholic Christians – appreciated this gesture. Patriarch Bartholomew I offered deeply touching remarks, thanking the Pope and the Roman Curia for such an exceptional gesture. Q: And the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Syrian Orthodox, Armenian and Anglican communities which you visited? What did the bishops’ presence signify for them? A: All these communities experienced the unity that there was among us. They appreciated the liturgies, the “quality” of what was shared. It was extraordinary for them to see bishops of many Churches united in prayer and they openly expressed their joy. It was, for them, a new calling to unity: if the bishops are together, then also the People of God should be together. I think that all these communities received great encouragement for what the future has in store. Q: During the ceremonies of St. Andrew’s Feast, Patriarch Bartholomew I spoke about the primacy of that spiritual unity which we are all called to live in Christ, according to the model of the Holy Trinity. That’s quite a challenge! A: I think that what we experienced here in Constantinople, which many Christians of different Churches are experiencing together in living the Focolare spirit of unity, with Jesus in the midst, is an example, a hope of that unity which already exists among the different Churches in communion, in the love of the Trinity. Among us, in fact, there is great love and respect for every Church, for every tradition. I saw how the Evangelical-Lutheran, Anglican and Catholic bishops appreciated the icons, the relics, and the Orthodox liturgy – which is very beautiful but it’s also sometimes quite long. All this has been an example of the unity which already exists and should spread in all the Churches, in the whole Christian world. Love can make the unity among Christians progress. If we bishops and the leaders of the Churches bear this witness, first of all – and the gift of the relics is a very powerful sign – then all this will be assimilated by the consciences of our respective Churches. Q: What is the root of your experience of unity? A: The root of unity is the love of God, the love of Christ which unites the whole world in the Holy Spirit, above all the Christians who unite in his name. This is why we have Jesus, Jesus in our midst, in us and in our hearts. The spirituality of the Focolare Movement is the spirituality par excellence of the Church of Christ, of every Church. I keep underscoring again and again that it is not something that pertains only to this Movement, nor to the Catholic Church alone. The unity proposed by Chiara Lubich and the Focolare Movement is for the Orthodox, the Lutheran, the Anglican Church too, simply because it is evangelical, it summarizes, embraces the whole Gospel, the essence of the Gospel which is the love of God, unity in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Q: Your pilgrimage in this land of early Christianity also included Nicea. What were your impressions there? A: We lived through a deeply moving experience in Nicea. It is a place that bears witness to the undivided Church. In 325, the first Council – which formulated the first part of our Creed – was held there. In Nicea we all signed a pact of mutual love among us bishops and we pledged – and as bishops we did it also on behalf of our local Churches – to work for the re-establishment of full and visible communion. It was a very powerful sign and a hope for the future. Q: Where and when is the next appointment? A: Next year we will hold our meeting in Bucharest, Rumania. We will meet in an ex-communist country which, after suffering through 50 years of repression, has regained its freedom, and even that came at a great price. Our meeting hopes to be a source of encouragement not only for the Orthodox, but for the other Christians of Rumania as well. There is an active community of Catholics there, of Evangelical-Lutherans and Calvinists as well. Q: It might be an occasion to meet Patriarch Teoctist. A: Yes, certainly it will be an occasion to meet Patriarch Teoctist and the leaders of the Catholic and Evangelical-Lutheran Churches, as well as a number of other bishops. It will be a chance to acquaint them with the role played by the Focolare Movement in fostering unity. Here in Constantinople, we heard the moving experience of a Rumanian Catholic priest who took upon himself the commitment of regularly gathering together Orthodox, Catholic, Reformed and Lutheran priests. Such meetings have changed the face of that city. Now they pray together and work together in a more spirit-filled way. I have come to appreciate the way the Focolare Movement shows great respect for each confession: it helps one rediscover his roots in his own Church; each priest, each Christian deepens his or her own tradition, and this is something extraordinary that somehow helps change the situation in a very positive way. 22-12-2004

[:it]Dai luoghi del cristianesimo dei primi secoli un nuovo impegno per la piena unità dei cristiani

Dec 12, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Creating unity in the seminary and everywhere

Nov 30, 2004 | Non categorizzato

 Until a few years ago our seminary was situated in a traditional type structure, with bare walls and long hallways.  Maybe it was also for this reason that each of us was running the risk of remaining closed in his own world.  Some of us seminarians came in contact with the spirituality of unity.  It was a great discovery to realize that the Gospel could be lived in such a concrete manner and especially with a sense of community.  So we immediately started living the “Word of Life” with poise and enthusiasm – it is a phrase from the Gospel that everyone in the Focolare Movement commits to translate to practice during an entire month – and it wasn’t long before we too began living our first experiences.  Soon other seminarians joined us, attracted by this novelty of life.

In the meantime, the number of students had grown sensibly and there wasn’t enough space for everyone in the seminary building.  The counselors then decided to turn a big living room area into a room for twelve seminarians.

But no one wanted to move, as everyone preferred having their own room.  We understood that it was an opportunity to love in a concrete way and to throw ourselves into a stronger life of communion.  So we offered to move.
The following year there was still a problem with the lack of rooms and the counselors suggested we continue our experience in a house near the seminary.

We began this new adventure trusting that it was something that God was suggesting.  We put everything in common:  clothes, books, money, and even our many needs.  To support ourselves, we started different activities, among which raising chicks.  Curious about this activity, many people would offer their help and would bring us food for them.  Everything was an opportunity to be a testimony to our ideal of unity and so our house became a meeting place and a big family grew around us.

In the meantime, the diocese decided to build a new seminary.  The experience of our “little house” inspired the idea to project it not like a big building, but an assembly of various homes with a chapel at the center.  There have been many episodes since then and the hardships accompanied us as well.  But whenever faced with difficulties we always told each other that only living and being a testimony to reciprocal love is what counts.

One day one of us needed a pair of slippers and I needed a pair of shoes for a celebration.  We renewed the pact of mutual love between us, convinced that the first thing to search for is the Kingdom of God and the rest would be given to us in surplus, and we newly began loving everyone – superiors and fellow students – in the small things, trying to see Jesus in everyone.  Come night time, a fellow student asked me if I needed a pair of shoes because he had received two pairs; a lady offered us a sum of money, the exact amount needed to buy a pair of slippers.  We felt God’s concrete love.

One of the weak points in our seminary life was sports.  Inevitably, every soccer game ended in contrast and discussion.  So we planned a tournament that had as a rule that everyone rejoice for the success of others as his own.  It went extremely well!  Our spiritual guide was the happiest.  And many seminarians thanked us for giving them the opportunity to discover that the Gospel can be lived in sports too.

We tried to transmit this life outside of the seminary as well, especially in pastoral activities.  One day, with a fellow student, we went to a female prison.  Before going in, we told each other that we would stay solid in mutual love and see Jesus in each of the prisoners.  At first they were quite indifferent, each of them concentrated on her own work. Then we tried to sing something for them and they slowly all came closer.  Once the relationship was established, we were able to talk to them about some experiences we lived through the “Word of Life”.

They were extremely happy and they made peace with each other.  We could not understand how Jesus could act so quickly.  One of them said she understood that she had to live by loving, even in prison, and that was the only way she could be free, maybe even more so than many that live in actual “freedom”.  Another one brought us to the door of her cell to tell us how that same night she was planning on killing herself, but that the love we brought gave her the joy to live again.  It was obvious that we weren’t the ones who had done these things, but Jesus present among us through mutual love.

(N. U. A. Q. – Columbia)

Many traditions – one people

Nov 26, 2004 | Non categorizzato

“Where two or more are united in my name …” Many traditions – one people Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I opened the 23rd Ecumenical Congress entitled: “Where two or more are united in my name … many traditions – one people”. Over 50 Bishops were present at the Congress held in Istanbul; they represented various Eastern and Western Churches: Orthodox, Syrian Orthodox, Apostolic Armenians, Anglicans, Evangelical Lutherans and Catholics of various rites. Highlights of the Congress After the opening of the Congress by the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, there were dialogue encounters with Card. Walter Kasper (President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity), with Apostolic Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, Mesrob II, and with the Patriarchal Vicar of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Turkey, Filüksinos Yusuf Çetin. At the heart of the spirituality of unity: the presence of the Risen Lord promised to “two or more united in His name” Chiara Lubich, foundress of the Focolare, had entrusted her closest collaborators with delivering her addresses on the theme of the Congress and on the ecumenical experience of the Movement. These talks testified to the consonance between the spirituality of unity typical of the Focolare and the ecumenical spirituality strongly endorsed by the Pope lately when, on November 13, he invited Christians once again to accomplish that “fullness of communion” which “does not mean abstract uniformity but rather, richness of the legitimate diversity of gifts, shared and acknowledged by all…” (Homily of Pope John Paul II on the 40th anniversary of the Conciliar decree ‘Unitatis Redintegratio’). Congress begins with an ecumenical celebration at St. Anthony’s Church The Bishops’ Congress started with an ecumenical celebration at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, attended by the leaders and members of the different Christian communities present in Istanbul. Visit to Nicea, seat of two of the early ecumenical Councils During their stay, the Bishops visited Nicea and the Monastery of the Most Holy Trinity at Halki, the illustrious center of studies of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. The bishops were also received by Patriarch Mesrob II at the seat of the Apostolic Armenian Patriarchate, as well as by Metropolitan Filüksinos Yusuf Çetin at the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchal Vicariate. The welcoming of the relics of the Fathers of the Church, John Chrysostom and Gregory Nazianzen The bishops also attended the ceremony to welcome return of the relics of the Fathers of the undivided Church, St. John Chrysostom and St. Gregory Nazianzen, archbishops of Constantinople during the 4th-5th centuries. The relics had been consigned by Pope John Paul II to Patriarch Bartholomew in Rome – indeed a happy coincidence, on Saturday 27th November. The Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle at the Fanar On 29th-30th November, at the Fanar, seat of the ecumenical Patriarchate, the Bishops attended the solemn commemoration of St. Andrew the Apostle, founder and patron of the Patriarchate of Costantinople. The ceremony was presided over by Patriarch Bartholomew I. The delegation of the Holy See, led by Card. Walter Kasper, also attended the celebration. Previous Meetings The ecumenical congresses of Bishops, Friends of the Focolare Movement, from various Churches are held yearly, each time at a different place: Constantinople (1984), London (1986 and 1996), Ottmaring/Augsburg (Germany) (1988 and 1998), Trent (Italy) (1995), Amman (Jordan) / Jerusalem (Holy Land) (1999), Zurich (Switzerland) (2001), Geneve (Switzerland) (2002), and Rome (several times). The conferences had always enjoyed the blessing of the heads of the different Churches.

[:it]Il silenzio e la parola. La luce.

Nov 3, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]Strategia del dialogo per una svolta nell’informazione

Nov 3, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]ICT e new media, organizzazione e management

Nov 3, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]Fotogrammi di vita, film maker a confronto, e strumenti per il dialogo, responsabilità dei Maestri, iniziative positive

Nov 3, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]A Vienna per “Educarsi ed educare attraverso lo sport”[:fr]Le sport au service de la paix[:pt]Esporte pela paz

Oct 7, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]La malattia: una chance per la comunione e la fecondità pastorale

Oct 3, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Interdependence Day “People, the peoples, the nations, for a more united world”

Sep 29, 2004 | Non categorizzato

ROME, September 11th 2004 Campidoglio square – time 20.30 In memory of September 11th – Dialogue for peace

H.E. Card. Paul Poupard, President Pontifical Council for Culture Rabbi Riccardo Di Segni, Head of the Jewish Community in Rome Ms. Shahrzad Hushmand, Iranian Islamic Theologian

WORDS AND MUSIC FOR PEACE Pamela Villoresi, Massimo Wertmuller, Miriam Meghnagi, Salaman Masahla, Ivry Gitlis, Faouzi Skali

Testimonies: Rabbi Elio Toaff, honorary Citizen of Rome H.E. Msgr. Shlemon Warduni, Auxiliary Bishop of Baghdad Imam Warith D. Mohammed, Leader “American Muslim Society” (USA) Cristian Carrara, Young people of the ACLI Abdallah Kabakeby, Young Italian Muslims Gadiel Liscia, Italian Jewish Community Union PROJECTION OF CARTOON POP – PACE OF PEACE realized by the students of the Palestinian school of Qalqilia and the Israeli school of Raanana ROME, SEPTEMBER 12TH 2004 AUDITORIUM “PARCO DELLA MUSICA”, SINOPOLI’S HALL 9.00 – OPENING SESSION Roberto Della Seta, Legambiente national President: “The role of civil society for the promotion of positive interdependence” 9.15 – 11.00 – THE POLITICAL PARADIGM OF INTERDEPENDENCE Benjamin Barber, political expert and founder of the “Interdependence Day”: “Global democracy and preventive peace” Walter Veltroni, Mayor of Rome “Interdependence between municipality and global citizenship” Other speakers: Kofi Annan, UN Secretary General (message) Pier Ferdinando Casini, Speaker of the House, Italy Governor Howard Dean, USA Romano Prodi, President of European Union Commission (message) Andrea Riccardi, St. Egidio’s Community founder Chiara Lubich, Focolare Movement foundress Lech Walesa, “Solidarnosc” founder 11.00 – 12.30 – EUROPE AND INTERDEPENDENCE Luigi Bobba, ACLI’s national President: “Presentation of the European declaration for interdependence” Points of view by: Mustafa Akyol (Turkey) Harry Belafonte (USA) Kim Campbell (USA) Carlo De Benedetti (Italy) Sandro Calvani (Italy) Ruth Dreifuss (Switzerland) Andrei Gratchev (Russia) Milan Kucan (Slovenia) Enrico Letta (Italy) Adam Michnik (Poland) Jeremy Milgrom Rabbi (Israel) Mbiaoh Francis Nkemabi (Cameroons) Bhikhu Parekh (India) Edoardo Patriarca (Italy) Timothy Phillips (USA) Ermete Realacci (Italy) Michel Rocard (France) Moderator: Giovanni Floris 13.00- Signature of the EUROPEAN DECLARATION of INTERDEPENDENCE  

[:it]Vocazione artistica: talento per l’unità

Sep 23, 2004 | Non categorizzato

[:it]L’interdipendenza in risposta al terrorismo

Sep 22, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Message of the Secretary General of the UN, Kofi Annan

Sep 22, 2004 | Non categorizzato

 I send my greetings to all who have gathered in Rome to mark the Second Interdependence Day. All around you in this eternal city are reminders that this was once the centre of an empire in which all roads led to Rome, all inhabitants lived under the Pax Romana, and the Roman Army watched the frontiers to keep outside threats at bay. Today, no nation or group of nations, not even the most powerful, can protect itself from threats by turning itself into an impregnable military fortress. No army can prevent capital movements, stop the spread of AIDS, reduce the impact of global warming, halt the flow of information, or reverse the spread of radical violent ideologies which threaten us all. Nor can any society hide safe behind the veil of ignorance or fear of the unknown, oblivious to the daily fight for mere survival that many in other countries face every day. For good or ill, we live in an age of interdependence, and we must manage it collectively. The peoples of Europe have advanced further down the path of integration than any group of nations in history. Globally, the most important instrument States have to manage interdependence is the United Nations. It is far from a perfect Organization. But it is the locus of international legitimacy, and it must be the vital centre of multilateral action. To make it work better, I have asked a panel of eminent persons to help us generate a shared analysis of the threats we face – including the threat of global terrorism – and a set of recommendations on how we should face them. I will be calling on the nations of the world to respond to those recommendations with vision and a sense of responsibility and solidarity. The same sense of responsibility and solidarity must be brought to bear to deal with old dangers that, alas, are still with us – the horrors of genocide and massive violations of human rights, the miseries of poverty, disease and hunger, the tragedies of ignorance and discrimination. All of these challenges are related. Both moral standing and the security of the community of nations will be determined, in large part, by how well we meet these challenges, and by whether we bring hope to the billions in our world who still struggle for life and justice. It takes more than far-sighted governments acting together to meet these challenges. It also requires men and women everywhere to deepen their sense of global citizenship and engage in this task. That is one reason the United Nations reaches out to civil society organizations, and why efforts such as yours are so vital. I mentioned at the outset that the structure of the Roman Empire could never work today. But the ideals of the res publica, to which the people of ancient Rome were also intimately attached, can continue to inspire us, as we look for ways to expand our sense of citizenship to the global level. In that spirit, I send you my best wishes for a successful Second Interdependence Day. The Secretary General, Kofi Annan

Interdependence vivified by fraternity, propelling force for positive processes

Sep 22, 2004 | Non categorizzato

 The numerous facets of interdependence I am particularly at ease today in reflecting on, from many different perspectives, the numerous facets of interdependence that we have decided to consider together, in order to better understand how to direct them towards the ultimate good of the human family. From my point of view, I would like to underline an aspect of interdependence already mentioned in my message for the first World Day of Interdependence held in Philadelphia on September 12th, 2003. I am referring to the fact that the reality of interdependence stirs within many the urgent need for that ideal for which people of goodwill worldwide have decided to spend their lives: to contribute to bringing about universal fraternity through which the unity of the human family can then become a reality. Yes, because interdependence implies a rapport of mutual exchange between two realities that condition each other reciprocally. This relationship cannot be lived out perfectly between individuals or among nations if it is not characterized by mutual respect and understanding, by the capacity to embrace the difficulties and issues that the other faces, and by welcoming the other’s unique gifts. Practically speaking, it requires mutual love as it is lived out between two brothers. Fraternal interdependence presupposes, in fact, the choice of a respectful dialogue to that of hegemony, the way of mutual sharing to that of concentrating resources and expertise predominantly in certain parts of the world. Fraternal interdependence is rightfully “mutual dependence” as it implies that my own identity cannot be affirmed through a form of defense, or opposition, but is rather reached through a communion: of resources, of civic virtues, of cultural riches, of experiences lived in the social and political spheres. These are not merely my own thoughts. They are the fruit of the experience lived within the Focolare Movement of which I am part, the effects of a charism of the Holy Spirit: a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and religiously diverse movement that has now spread to more than 182 nations, with millions of adherents who strive to build relationships of fraternity, in fact, to bring about universal fraternity. September 11: paradoxically a step forward towards universal fraternity It is this same experience that gave me the certitude and a renewed confidence in assessing, for example, what occurred after the twin towers were destroyed: that tragic event, clearly one of the lowest moments in history for fraternal relationships among individuals and peoples, seemed paradoxically to me as the moment when the world could also take a step forward towards universal fraternity. The numerous impressions and witnesses that I received from many members of the Focolare in the hours immediately following this terrible event confirmed what I was thinking. From the United States, they informed me that even in the midst of the drama that had shaken the whole nation, the American people were experiencing an unprecedented solidarity, an openness to sharing on a totally new scale. The Christians and African American Muslim friends of the Movement were united in reacting to the backlash of hate by visibly demonstrating the deep fraternal bond already existent between them. Similar reactions were shared with me by people in Algeria, by those in the Palestinian territory, in Jerusalem, as well as in South Africa and all the European nations. Young and old, members of different faiths, assumed the responsibility to bear witness in a more incisive and cognizant manner. From that day on, our commitment to build unity among all peoples took on a greater decisive thrust. This was also the reason behind our full adherence to the goals and the content of the Day of Interdependence. We cannot, in fact, but recognize that interdependence and fraternity are two necessary stages of humanity’s journey towards its complete reconciliation. As John Paul II wrote on the occasion of the World Day of Peace in 2001, it is precisely the “present reality of global interdependence that makes it easier to appreciate the common destiny of the entire human family.” We chose the highest form of interdependence: unity On this basis, in agreement with Dr. Barber with whom I immediately found a deep affinity of thought, I would now like to offer you some ideas about the principles, on both the human and spiritual level, on which our experience rests. Sixty years ago, we were just a few young women, but one of our first intuitions still stirs strong within me. In the midst of WW II, under the fire of a fierce bombardment, we took refuge in a dark cellar. Aided by the light of a candle, we read in the Gospel – the only reference point for our lives – Jesus’ testament where he proposed universal fraternity: “That all may be one” (Jn 17:21). We understood that the nascent movement had come to life to fulfill this goal. The word “ALL” would become the new horizon before us: unity, the reason for our lives. Making this dream of God our own linked us to Heaven and at the same time immersed us completely in the affairs of humanity, so as to help indicate the way to universal fraternity. In the midst of the war, the most painful of divisions, we paradoxically chose to live for unity, the highest form of interdependence. The possibility of fulfilling this ideal found its roots in what seemed to us as an authentic discovery: God is Love! Love that embraces every era and makes all men and women brothers and sisters to one another. This love immediately was converted into mutual love by us, generating a profound communitarian experience. That same loved urged us to reach out to those most in need, in order to resolve – as we then said – the social problems of our small city of Trent. This inclusive way of looking onto our city immediately caught on and within a few months, we were more than 500 people – of every age, professional and social background – living with this vision. Unity is therefore at the heart of the Focolare Movement, the specific “symbol” of its physiognomy, but it is also a “vocation,” a calling for all people of goodwill. As time went on, certain specific dialogues and forums of mutual exchange emerged. We found ourselves creating spaces and occasions of encounter within the Church of which we are members, so as to foster an always greater “communion.” We then lived an experience among Christians of different traditions, united as a people, sharing the specific gifts of each Church, prelude to a doctrinal unity. But there is a certain front that we feel particularly called to operate on, especially after September 11th – an arena which we had already begun to work in more than 20 years ago. I am referring to our work in interreligious dialogue. With those of other faiths, we focus above all on each one living the so-called “Golden Rule”: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” This means to love the others, a norm which is present, with varying nuances, in all the great faith traditions. Lastly, we have always joined forces, in a concrete collaboration, with those who perhaps have no precise religious affiliation. We are united through our common love for humanity and those noble values which regard the human person. Fraternity applied to economics and politics as an answer to today’s compelling questions The constant search for that which unites us, the conviction that unity is possible, over the years has given life to small and large-scale initiatives. I will mention two, as an example of the surprising capacity that fraternity has (when lived out) to respond to the overwhelming problems of our day. In 1991, the Project for an Economy of Communion was born and today includes 797 businesses throughout the world. These enterprises operate in the current market and divide their profits into three parts: one part is used to assist those in need, giving them the necessary help until they find a job; another part is used to build structures which then form people to the “culture of giving”; finally, one part is used for the growth of the firm. Some economists foresee that the inspiring idea and the experience that undergird the Economy of communion contain a new paradigm which could contribute to overcoming the individualistic mentality that prevails in our contemporary culture. In 1996, the “Movement for Unity in Politics” (one of the expressions of the Focolare Movement) was consolidated, bringing together those with a specific interest in political activity, understood from the start as an essential calling to build up the human family. Today, this Movement constitutes an international workshop which gathers political efforts to work together among citizens, officials, scholars, politicians at various levels representing different political persuasions and parties, who choose to give fraternity priority, and then make their political decisions. The fundamental values present in their political cultures then become the pivotal force which guide their actions.

The European Charter for the politics of Interdependence to build a world of peace without frontiers

Sep 22, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Futuristic setting The futuristic Auditorium in Rome’s Parco della Musica provided a marvellous setting for the opening session of the Interpendence Day meeting. “The interdependence of peoples, which has become an urgent necessity through the globalisation of trade and through… terrorism, was sung and played in all sorts of variations in the Sinopoli Hall of the Auditorium. It was a dialogue made up of many voices and many faiths and political standpoints, all in unison with the idea of a ‘virtuous system of interdependence’ which all are aiming for, from the UN to the world’s religions”. So wrote Orazio Petrosillo in Il Messaggero (Rome) on 13 September. “Those who have come to Rome for Interdependence Day have done so because they believe that peoples, individuals and states really can become more united.”

Benjamin Barber: Virtuous interdependence as an answer to today’s global challenges American politician, Professor Benjamin Barber, founder of Interdependence Day said, in an interview: “Interdependence means that either we can create a world that is safe for everyone, or one that is not safe for anyone.” And, in welcoming the delegates he affirmed: “Because the challenges that face us today are global challenges, the answers too must be global. This is why the need for Interdependence Day and for a Declaration of Interdependence came about. Our answers must be the fruit of a virtuous interdependence system, a new transnational system of international law, multi-lateral cooperation and global social governance.”

A document for a new world based on interdependent living The European Charter for the politics of Interdependence has as its priority a new world based on interdependent living. Before everything else, it affirms that this is indispensable for eradicating terrorism and that it can achieved by building a strong social and linguistic network, one that favours intercultural and interreligious dialogue, as well as international cooperation to combat the north-south divide in the world. It also encourages the free movement of individuals, the right to vote for foreigners, access to drinking water and the universal right to health. It also demands that the right of asylum be strengthened. Prodi: overcoming division between peoples President of the European Commission, Romano Prodi, said in his message, that “the times in which we live require us to take the long view, to overcome the divisions that have marked our past. Now we know which path we must follow: that of unity in diversity, dialogue between cultures, sharing resources.” Kofi Annan: a new awareness of being world citizens is needed To resolve the inequalities and the tragedies that afflict the world, UN secretary general, Kofi Annan said in his message that “we need men and women who develop the awareness of being world citizens. No nation, on its own, can protect itself from the dangers that threaten it from outside.”

Veltroni’s definition of Interdependence: an alternative to the north-south divide The Mayor of Rome, Walter Veltroni, said that interdependence is an alternative to that form of globalisation which increases the north-south divide: “The latest report on human development says that in 26 countries, mostly in Africa, wealth has decreased rather than increased.” Bodies like the UN, that govern our planet must be strengthened.

Chiara Lubich: Interdependence and fraternity needed to set in motion positive processes For Chiara Lubich, founder of the Focolare Movement, interdependence has a very precise meaning: it involves choosing the way of a dialogue rather than that of dominance, the way of sharing rather than that of concentrating resources and knowledge in just one part of the world. Enlivened by fraternity, interdependence as a simple ‘fact’ or ‘instrument’, can become the driving force for positive processes… not just of a single people, but of all humanity. Andrea Riccardi: all are called to work for peace “Just a small number of people can destabilise the world with arms,” said Andrea Riccardi, founder of the St Egidio Community, “and this is the story of terrorism. But it is also true that everyone can work for peace. We need a new culture, new initiatives.”

Message from Romano Prodi

Sep 22, 2004 | Non categorizzato

 Dear Friends, Interdependence Day is a praiseworthy and uplifting event that deserves to be celebrated and supported wholeheartedly. So I congratulate the organisers for their initiative and I send my warmest greetings to all present. I am only sorry I cannot be with you for the whole day, but I am glad to say I will be present for some time later on this evening. On this day, our first thoughts must be for the victims of the tragic events of a few days ago in North Ossetia. Those events bring home to us the dramatic need for tolerance and peace in our societies. They remind us how important it is to work for peace and fraternity among peoples. Interdependence Day has a twofold significance and meaning here: first, as a day of remembrance; and second, by forcing us to reflect on our common future and on how to avoid giving in to the temptation of hatred and violence, and instead on how to bolster cooperation and solidarity. Today, more than ever, we must not simply remain on the defensive, comforted by a false, superficial analysis. We need to seek the real causes of these tragic events and tackle them at their roots. It would be a terrible mistake to underestimate the potential contagion of such violence. And while we need to respond to violence and terrorism swiftly and vigorously, we also need to find long-term answers to them. Because our hopes of putting an end to such outrages once and for all lie in the long term. The times demand we be capable of far-sightedness. They demand we be capable of overcoming the divisions that have beset our past, and they demand we respond to the requirements of this point in history by developing a new, mature project for our common future. We need vision and powerful ideas. And interdependence is one such powerful idea, because it transcends technicalities, raising issues that go beyond the Union’s institutional architecture or the way it is run. Interdependence is much more important and essential, raising the issue of the principles and values that should guide our action. Fifty years ago, Europe’s Founding Fathers embarked on an incredibly ambitious project and set in motion the process of European integration that has brought us the European Union of today. They knew there was no alternative to integration and interdependence, to the pooling of resources for the benefit of all. They knew that prosperity cannot last so long as poverty is allowed to fester and thrive. European integration began in the aftermath of what is probably mankind’s greatest tragedy—World War II. Thanks to the Founding Fathers’ intuition and courage, we have enjoyed fifty years of peace. The latest enlargement that has embraced central, southern and eastern Europe has unified the continent, putting an end to decades of artificial partition. It is the first time in our history that the process of unification is carried out peacefully, democratically, and with the direct participation of Europe’s citizens. And we know these are not just empty words, because the European integration process has made a tangible, concrete contribution to peace and this is clear to all. But there are now new threats hanging over Europe and the whole world. The situation we face is dramatic and unprecedented. It calls for intuition, courage and initiative—just like half a century ago. We know what the way forward demands: unity in diversity, dialogue among cultures, the pooling of resources and joint action. We need to promote these values globally, for there is no alternative if stability, development and peace are to be safeguarded. At the same time, we need to think long and hard about the sort of institutional architecture and governance that can best serve the spirit of dialogue and peace. We need to ensure that economic, social and political interdependence is constantly promoted through effective and strengthened multilateralism. We need men and women of goodwill who are committed to economic and social progress for the common good. We need new forms of partnership between public institutions and civil society that can breathe new enthusiasm and life into the making and implementing of public policy. We need to strengthen civic participation to ensure our democracies are sound and healthy. Participation gives people at national, European and international level a role in shaping their own future; it gives people the feeling that they are part of a larger community, that peace and prosperity are a shared goal and a joint endeavour. Today we must not only speak out but also effectively act in favour of revitalising the political and social alliance that is the basis for positive, fruitful interdependence among cultures, peoples and States. In favour of a more peaceful, united and cohesive world. I extend my best wishes to you all for a resoundingly successful day. Romano Prodi

[:it]I Poli imprenditoriali: laboratorio di una nuova economia

Sep 19, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Inverting the course of terrorism through a new economic order

Sep 18, 2004 | Non categorizzato

Poverty to eradicate and poverty as an option
There is a kind of poverty that one succumbs to, which should be eradicated; it is synonymous with misery, which is unjust and inhuman. But “there exists another kind of poverty, the kind a person freely chooses, one that is the premise to defeating misery.” This is the vision of poverty and wealth which has developed from the experience of the Economy of Communion throughout its 13-year history in different parts of the world. This was the subject developed by Professor Luigino Bruni, political economics expert and one of the directors of the Economy of Communion Movement. “All that I have and am has been given to me, therefore I should give it in return,” Prof. Bruni added. Here lies the root of the option to share, and this is how “goods can turn into bridges.”

Timeliness of the EoC experience
Chiara Lubich pointed this out, saying that “it can invert the course of terrorism,” because in union with “other positive forces,” EoC contributes to that kind of brotherhood which makes the communion of goods possible and erases social disparities. “In fact,” Chiara continued, “one of the root causes of terrorism is the tremendous inequality between the rich and the poor countries,” which “generates hostility and revenge.”

The primary idea of the Economy of Communion – to bridge the gap between rich and poor
The Focolare foundress addressed over 700 economists, researchers, entrepreneurs, laborers, students and shareholders, coming from such diverse points as USA, India, Eastern and Western Europe and many other parts of the world for their convention at the Mariapolis Center of Castelgandolfo (Rome). She recalled that the primary idea of the Economy of Communion came up in 1991, during her trip to Brazil; while flying over San Paulo, she was “struck by the contrast between the jungle of skyscrapers and the misery of the surrounding slum areas.” It was then that she challenged businessmen to produce profits, destined partly to the benefit of the needy, partly to the formation of people according to a “new” mentality for a “new economy,” and partly to the development of the business enterprise itself.

Evaluating 13 years of EoC
Just before Chiara’s address, EoC’s 13-year experience was evaluated under various aspects: the business enterprises being managed along EoC guidelines are 800, present all over the world, of which 470 are in Europe, and 270 in North and South America.

The Economic Movement
Chiara Lubich had encouraged the growth of a real economic movement which could also be expressed in cultural and scientific terms, of which academic seminars, publications and theses (166 from all over the world) developed over these 13 years “are already a promising start.”
As Prof. Bruni underscored, “Without a new culture, there would be no new economic system.” “In EoC,” he continued, “we can foresee the concrete possibility of giving rise to a new humanism; we can perceive the way to a new economic order which is more just and more inclined towards solidarity,”

A new vision of work
In the EoC perspective, work, too, assumes another significance. Taking the Gospel as a model, Chiara Lubich offered a precise strategy: “transform every working hour into a masterpiece of precision and harmony.” “Make use of one’s talents and aim at perfection.” “Work not just to earn” but “to transform whatever our hand produces into love.” “The receivers of our labor are our brothers.” Jesus considers whatever we do to them as done to himself. “The burden of work, difficulties in working relationships, contradictions are the typical penance which a Christian shoulders.” In working relationships, “Reciprocal love which attracts Christ’s presence in the collectivity comes first,” and serves as a light “to discover together new ways to organize, to include all staff levels in running a business.” In this way, “business enterprises shall become the dwelling places of God with his people, a true foretaste of Paradise.” The prolonged applause that followed expressed everyone’s adherence to this envigorating proposal.

The afternoon program consisted in a series of experiences of business enterprises in different countries.