Mar 13, 2016 | Non categorizzato
The spirituality of unity born of Chiara Lubich holds a strong relevance for peace. This was the main message of an event at Castel Gandolfo, Italy, on March 12, 2016 at which people came together to reconsider the heritage of Chiara Lubich in the field of peace building. In attendance were ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic corps to the Holy See and to the Italian State from 20 countries: Morocco, Libya, Benin, Gabon Turkey, Taiwan, Argentina, Venezuela, Cuba, Uruguay, Paraguay, USA, Guatemala, and several European nations like Ukraine, Lithuania, Albania, Slovenia, Portugal and Malta. 
Yet, the current picture which imposes itself on our gaze offers images of a “a peace that is violated and often derided” leading us to believe that “the generations of the Third Millennium will never have an experience of life together in peace.” These were the words of Focolare president, Maria Voce in her welcoming remarks. How can we retie the broken thread of human relationships among peoples and States? “At the UNESCO headquarters, Chiara Lubich had presented a method of Peace Education,” Maria Voce recalled. It was the spirituality of unity, which lays the foundations for a culture of dialogue. This was demonstrated by 4 experiences: the simplicity of the Cube of Peace which became the basis for the development of Living Peace, a project in Cairo schools that has reached 300 schools in 110 countries involving an additional 1000 children and teenagers; dialogue between Christians and Muslims in Italy against the backdrop of tension that spreads across the continent; the “miraculous” story of Fontem, Cameroon, in which Chiara Lubich foresaw the future unity amongst the peoples foreshadowed in a pact that was sealed between the chiefs of the two tribes; and then her grand dream of influencing society through culture and thought, which has led to the founding of the Sophia University Institute, Loppiano, Italy. Gen Verde also spoke from the stage of the Mariapolis Centre in Castel Gandolfo. Their songs from the new On the Other Side Show sing the same stories: the sacrifice of the monks in Tibhirine, Algeria, the lullaby for the nameless child who drowned during one of many voyages of hope, Salvadoran bishop Oscar Romero’s voice for truth, now Blessed, murdered at the hand of a criminal, the cry of the Amazon forest that impoverishes us all. Gen Verde works to build peace in its many workshops for thousands of young people. Those young people choose to be the first sprouts of a new people wherever they find themselves, the sprouts of a more supportive world for the smallest and poorest. This is what Chiara had said at UNESCO when she spoke of a “united world” and she also told how to do it: having courage to suffer, accepting the suffering and fatigue that it requires. “If more people accepted suffering out of love, the suffering demanded by love,” Chiara said, “that would be the most powerful arm for giving back humanity its true dignity: not that of a collection of peoples, one next to the other, often at war – but one people.”
Mar 12, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Aleppo, March 8, 2016. I woke up at four in the morning to the sound of bombs and wasn’t able to go back to sleep. I tried not to believe my ears. No, it can’t be true, Lord! More bombings! Just as we were beginning to hope things would get better, that the electricity had returned after 5 months and the water after 45 days! Why? This ceasefire was supposed to last and become permanent! My pleadings rose from the depths of my soul to the Lord of History, asking that this truce which was announced a week ago for all Syria would become permanent. But the sound of fighting on the frontlines that divide the city of Aleppo in two only increased, with the sound of loud explosions that are easily heard at night. While waiting for the sun to rise and for calm to return, as I continued praying I thought: “Of course, we all want Peace, but do we really believe or think that it is achieved at such a high price? There are people who think that war is the path to follow! They’re prepared to sacrifice not only their own lives, but also those of others because they believe this. And there are powers that make a profit on everything that’s happening, so they don’t want the war to end and; indeed, they continue to pour gas on the fire. 
And we, the ones who believe in great ideals, in living peaceful and civil lives with respect for other cultures – do we truly believe it? And what price are we ready to pay? Frankly, the war in Syria is not a small matter. Who would have the courage to destroy a country that 6 years ago was growing with life and hope, where Muslims and Christians of different confessions and many other ethnic groups lived at peace with each other? Surely these destroyers are not single individuals. An answer by Chiara Lubich to some of our Muslim friends in 2002 came to mind. They had asked her about the hope that love and peace would win out over the war. She answered by citing the September 11th attacks: “Terrorism is a fruit of Evil (with a capital E) against which human strength will not suffice [. . .]. The forces of Good (with a capital G” are required [. . .] the forces of God’s Love. And so, what do we have to do? Prayer! We have to unite . . . all of us who are for universal brotherhood . . . unite to pray that terrorism will be overcome. And we can do it, because Jesus says that wherever two or more are gathered in His name, in His love, whatever they ask, will be done for them. And we are far more than two or three [. . .] Let us leave here with one idea: We are together, let us unite to pray. But that’s not enough. The main cause of terrorism is this indifference in front of a world that is half rich and half poor. They would like – and they’re not wrong in this – for there to be some communion of goods [. . .] some solidarity. We have to change hearts. Only if we carry out the work of universal brotherhood will we be able to convince ourselves and others that we should also put together our goods. We’ll begin amongst ourselves, but then the ideas begin to rise all the way to the Heads of State. We need to have this certainty: that with God, impossible things become possible; that with God – beginning with the brotherhood amongst us – we’ll reach the great goal: to make humanity one family [. . .]. This is our objective.” 
We shouldn’t delude ourselves. We shouldn’t wait for others to do something. We’re also responsible! If we truly believe that God can overcome Evil and that He listens to us, then we have to pray to the Father without ceasing, with the faith that He will help us; otherwise, we commit a sin of omission. Everybody remembers the time the bombings stopped over Syria, thanks to the influence of the prayer and fasting of the Pope and many others. And God heard us! And so He can hear us again. Let’s do it then – and always – until the reign of Peace comes not only in Syria, but in the whole world. See: Chiara Lubich, Castel Gandolfo, Italy, November 3, 2002, questions and answers with Muslim friends of the Focolare.
Mar 11, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“A woman of dauntless faith, a meek messenger of hope and peace” – this is how Pope Benedict XVI described Chiara Lubich in his message at her funeral eight years ago. In January 2015, on the occasion of the official opening of the cause of her beatification, Pope Francis urged “to make known to the people of God the life and work of one who welcomed Our Lord’s invitation and enkindled a new light for the church on the journey towards unity”. Hundreds of initiatives held around the world remember her message of peace. The Focolare Community in Europe is promoting more than 200 events. “We live for Unity” is the title of the meeting in Minsk, Belarus. Meetings will held in the six cities where Focolare Communities are present in Sweden. In Munich, there will be the first “Chiaratag”. Journalists and qualified members of the Justice and Peace Commission will take part in the round table conference “Chiara and peace” held in Lisbon, Portugal. In Seville, Spain the theme will be “Chiara Lubich, educator for peace”. Allal Baschar, Imam of the Mosque of King Abdul Aziz al Saud of Marbella and Fr. Manuel Palma Ramírez, deputy director of the Seville Theological Studies Centre will be two speakers during this meeting. “A message of dialogue and peace” is the title of the meeting organized by the Focolare community in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. This Community, composed of Catholics, Orthodox, Muslims and people with no religious belief, will share the result of years of commitment lived side by side by its various members. The public is invited to attend, and Archbishop Cardinal Vinko Puljić is expected to participate. The firm belief in this message is passed through an ongoing dialogue, even in other Balkan countries, and it leads to mutual recognition of traditions and nationalities. Pearls, an educational programme carried out in Skopje, Macedonia shows this. It consists of an early childhood programme for children of various ethnic groups. It is linked to the university and also involves the families. Based on Lubich’s ideal of universal brotherhood, it was initiated by Professor Aziz Shehu, a Muslim who was then lecturer and pro-dean at the Faculty of Pedagogy. In early March, 110 young Croats, Serbs, Ruthenians, Albanians and Macedonians also gave witness of this irreversible process when, for the first time, with others from Bulgaria and Rumania, they came together under the banner, the Balkans: we are one Numerous meetings, symposia, conferences and concerts will be held in the Americas. These events vary from spiritual and prayerful to interfaith or environmental. They will take place from New York to San Francisco in U.S.A, from Santiago, Chile to La Habana, Cuba, Neza in the Mexican State of Nezahualcoyotl, Caracas in Venezuela, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Mendoza in Argentina. Very significant are the meetings to be held in the Pacific Islands of Honolulu, Hawaii, and in Noumea, New Caledonia. There is no family at Medellin, Colombia, who has not lost at least one of its members during these 50 years of conflict. So, even among the Focolare communities, one finds three generations with stories similar to that of Rosa, who had her son murdered by a friend but did not fall a victim of vengeance. She braved the situation with the courage of forgiveness while she worked in the social services centre of the neighbourhood to spread reconciliation, care, culture. Educational projects set up in different cities of Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and Mexico see generations of children grow up into professionals and teachers and assume the task of promoting an education that leads to fraternity and peace. Australia will focus on peace and fellowship, with appointments in Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. The meeting in Perth, organized by youth, will be held in the central Northbridge Square.Politics for Unity: Making a World of Difference will be the theme for the conferences held in Wellington and in Christchurch, New Zealand. Thirty-one communities present in various regions of South Korea will animate the events that are meant to deepen the bond between Chiara Lubich and peace. The symposium at De La Salle University in Manila, the Philippines will focus on “The Charism of Unity: a timeless legacy” and delve into the Movement’s fifty years history in the continent of Asia. In Vietnam, 300 people from all over the country will be meeting in Vung Tau for several days to share and live together the spirituality of unity. In Pakistan, spiritual meetings and Masses for peace are to be held in seven cities. Events are also scheduled to take place in Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and also in other places. Inspired by the current situation of social tension, Burundi choose the theme: Merciful like our Heavenly Father, we are builders of peace. A telephone conference call will unite, the big cities of the Democratic Rep. of Congo: Lubumbashi, Goma, Kinshasa and Kikwit. Here, 1500 people, among them ambassadors, members of UNESCO, representatives of different Christian denominations and Muslim authorities, will reflect on Peace in the family. The widespread presence of the Focolare communities in Italy stimulates numerous initiatives. In Rome, the meeting place for 280 young people will be the Italian Parliament where they will meet Laura Boldini, the president of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, Paolo Gentiloni, the Minister of foreign affairs and other members of Parliament. The three main speakers, who will discuss the manifesto containing concrete proposals on peace, disarmament and industrial reconversion are Pasquale Ferrara, a diplomat, Michele Zanzucchi, the director of Città Nuova and Shahrzad Houshmand, a Muslim theologian. Antonio M. Baggio will lecture to law students at the University of Pisa about: The love of loves. The religious and secular nature of politics in Chiara Lubich. “Religions dialogue in favour of peace and the environment” will be the event at the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa. During this event, Husein Salah, president of the Islamic Community, Giuseppe Momigliano, the chief Rabbi, Gnanathilaka Mahauswewe, a Buddhist monk, Andrea Ponta, an environmental engineer and Roberto Catalano from the Interreligious Diaolgue Centre of the Focolare Movement will give, a reflection on Laudato Si’. “Me through you” is the title of an itinerate event in Milan, which is a sort of “embrace” to the city and an interaction between different groups. There will be more dialogue, integration and forgiveness during the series of events “Is my world like yours?… steps towards getting to know one another better”. Members of the diplomatic Corps accredited to Italy and to the Holy See and representatives of the cultural world will meet at the Auditorium of the Mariapoli Centre at Castelgandolfo, Rome, where they will be welcomed by Maria Voce, president of the Focolare Movement. Chiara Lubich will be commemorated through The Culture of dialogue as a factor of peace. Whilst armed conflicts continue to cause havoc and kill hope in the Middle East, the Focolare communities in Syria affirm: “Even we are responsible to contribute towards peace. If we believe in God, the Lord of history who can conquer evil and hear our prayers, we would commit a sin of omission if we do not turn at all times to Him, who makes the impossible become possible and helps us to achieve our aim of uniting humanity into one family. So let us pray, while we change our hearts and share our goods”. The events of March 14, 2016 make sense because they aim at converging the efforts and prayers of many people, in many places on earth, to make the world become more united. Meanwhile, the cause of the beatification of Chiara Lubich, which began on January 27, 2015 is following the required process. Witness has already been offered by persons who are members of different Churches and by others who have no particular religious conviction. A mosaic of testimonies highlight her exemplary life, a commitment shared with all those whom God placed in her path to “become saints together”. Press Release
Mar 11, 2016 | Non categorizzato
From the Argentinean capital, if you take the south bound motorway, after half an hour you would get to Plátanos, a peripheral barrio of about 20,000 inhabitants. They are hardworking people who have built their own homes with great effort and very little money. The parish, dedicated to Saint Elisabeth of Hungary, is very active. Fr. Francesco Ballarini, Italian, brought the Focolare spirit there almost 30 years ago. Today, it is the lay people who continue to live this spirit of unity, together with other diocesan parishes. “At the start of the year – they recounted – we organised a party for the children of the most far out district of Plátanos, the inhabitants of which do not frequent the parish very much. Each of them was invited to put in common their own talents: some taught how to make bread, others how to paint, and there were a ceramics lab, a catechist dad to play magician, and some ladies who taught how to prepare mate (the typical infusion drunk in the Southern tip of the country).” On this occasion they met a 15-year-old at the end of her pregnancy. “She needed everything. A solidarity competition started in order to meet the needs of the child who was born a few days early. Upon reaching her house, we were shocked by the downgrade of the small place: without a floor or windows, a broken door, and with her six siblings living there with her parents. When the community heard about this situation, a lot of aid started coming in. We are almost ready to install the windows, doors, a heater and other people have offered to give a hand. Some ladies went to teach M. how to best take care of her baby, and M. who was sad and irritable when we first met her, has started to smile. It is the charity lived all together that works small miracles.” 
“Another initiative we are working on – they continued – is the Sachetera project: it is about the manufacture of sleeping sacks with the milk bags, for the homeless. As a parish we want to continue supporting this project, and even each of us could work in their own homes. We prefer working together: kids, adolescents and adults. During a very rainy day, we thought it would be impossible to meet, but the thought of our homeless friends urged us to work even harder.” “We then gathered at Bernal (another barrio) with members of other parishes and the Focolare youth who brought ahead the aid project for the needy. For us it is important to share our experiences with other parishes, also so we would not enclose ourselves only in “our” periphery, and instead open out to the others.” In September, the house of a family in a nearby district burned down – destroying everything, “we started up an action aid, bringing the primary necessities from our own homes. With the communion of goods we contributed to the building of the walls. So with great enthusiasm, they were able to rebuild their house. Only much later, we found out that the family belongs to the Pentecostal church, and that he was the Pastor. We were moved since Love did not consider, once again, one’s religious profession, or other differences.» In the following days, the Pastor who worked as a mason, offered to plaster the wall of the church which wanted to build an altar for the icon of the Virgin of Luján. «I thank you all for the love you gave me, without asking anything in return – the Pastor said to the Catholic community gathered for the Sunday mass, and which they wanted to take part in – you have helped me overcome the prejudices that many of us (Pentecostals) feel towards Catholics. You too are my brothers.”
Mar 10, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
“We cannot talk about evangelization in Fontem without the Focolare Movement,” said Bishop Nkea standing in front of the television cameras during his visit to the International Centre in Rocca di Papa, Italy, on March 8. “Chiara Lubich went to Fontem 50 years ago, and she brought the Ideal [spirituality of unity]. That is why we have come here: to thank Chiara and the Movement for everything it has done for us in these 50 years. This is a pilgrimage of thanksgiving.” “The Diocese of Mamfe did not exist 50 years ago and Fontem was a lost village in the Cameroonian forest that was difficult to reach.” We cannot understand the Bishop’s words without returning to the history of an event that has been called the “miracle in the forest”. Fontem was the first permanent Mariapolis on the African continent. In 1966, several focolarini, doctors, went to help the Bangwa people who were being decimated with an infant mortality rate of 98%. A few months later, Chiara herself visited them: “That huge crowd of people gathered on the vast plane in front of the home of their Fon,” she would say in 1995, “appeared so united and so anxious to be elevated [. . .] that it seemed to me long prepared by Mary to embrace the Christian faith in its most integral and genuine form.” “The focolarini were believed because they did to Jesus what they did to the Bangwa, offering, above all, a witness of the love amongst themselves and towards everyone.” 
Today there is a hospital in Fontem, Mary Health of Africa, which serves a large part of the region; and a college, Mary Seat of Wisdom, which prepares students for university. With the help of focolarini priests, parishes have been opened in Menji, Fotabong, Fonjumetaw. Bishop Nkea declared: “Mainly, we learned mutual love and unity. I’m also Bangwa, so I’m speaking in the name of my people.” “We learned interreligious dialogue: What is important for us now is that we love one another, whether we are Christian or not, to live in this unity with each other.” 
The delegation that had come to render homage to Chiara Lubich included bishops – Bishop Nkea and Emeritus Bishop Lysinge who was celebrating the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood – priests, women religious and many lay people. They are a living testimony to the communion in the diocese. They were welcomed at the International Centre of the Focolare by the Movement’s president, Maria Voce – who first visited Fontem in January 2009 – and the Movement’s co-president, Jesús Morán, who will visit Fontem this coming December. The visit of the delegation marked the opening of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the arrival of the spirituality of unity in Fontem (1966-2016) and will continue through the year. The visit to Chiara’s house was particularly moving. The day concluded with a solemn Mass in the chapel where Chiara rests. “Your pilgrimage here today bears witness to the fruits produced by that first visit of Chiara, which launched a Divine adventure that no one ever imagined,” Maria Voce said as she welcomed them. “You are the fruit of the life of these 50 years. It is a great joy for us and shows us the vitality of Africa. Fifty years have gone by and our wish to each other now is that we begin a new period, hopefully a long period for offering to God trees covered with fruits and with blossoms.” Jesús Morán commented: “There is an exchange of gifts between Africa and us. The charism of unity is a gift for Africa, and Africa is a gift for the whole Movement.”
Leer more: 50th anniversary of the Focolare in Africa
The personal witness of the Fon of Fontem Lucas Njifua https://vimeo.com/91709757
Mar 9, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“Five years ago, before the outbreak of the Syrian conflict, my family and I planned to make a full-time experience at the international town of the Focolare in Loppiano (Florence). Violet and I attended the Loreto School, where with other couples from various parts of the world, we deepened the topic of the family in the light of the spirituality of unity while our four children attended the schools of the region. After years of work as a doctor, we wanted to dedicate a year of our life to God. We prepared to leave with great care and responsibility, unaware of what would happen from then on: after the outbreak of the conflicts in our country. In the time that remained before our departure, I managed to be useful in many ways, giving first aid to the wounded, and making long and risky trips by car to reach them. Also the departure for Italy was rather adventurous precisely due to the disorders that unfortunately continued. 
As we followed with trepidation the increasingly tragic news from afar, at the end of the course our relatives implored us to delay our return. You can imagine the anguish with which we made this decision, and the pain of not being able to do anything for our compatriots. We felt like a car with an engine in full thrust being held on the spot by force. But neither was it simple to remain in Italy. There was no future ahead of us. Even if we were in a friendly environment, because my qualifications were not recognised, I was not allowed to practice my profession. So I adapted myself to doing other jobs, like carpentry or other works, while waiting for some opening. Finally an occasion came up where I could do something for my people. I found out about a reception project of “Doctors Without Borders” that helps refugees in Slovenia, which needed an Arab-speaking doctor. So I immediately left, without knowing exactly how it would be. Upon my arrival, I immediately set myself at the service of many who reached the Refugee center via the sea or after a long journey on foot. Many of them came from Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan… and many also from Syria! Seeing them arrive and welcoming them in our language was really moving, so that tears ran down my face. From then on I no longer worried about the hours of sleep, food… I wanted to stay with them all the time to soothe their suffering, taking care of them and making them feel “at home.” I can still remember the first baby girl I took care of: she kept crying, and we couldn’t calm her down. Upon visiting her I understood that she only had a stomach ache and I started to cradle her and speak to her in Arab… the child slowly calmed down and fell asleep in my arms. When the others approached to take her, she would struggle and did not want to let my arm go… it was really a strong experience. Over here the flow is continuous. Three trains arrive daily with about 2,500 people. In only four days we had to see to so many people, as had never happened in any month. There are only six of us in our team: the others are all natives of the place. Also they noticed how touching it was for me to see my compatriots arrive in those conditions. When I receive them, saying my name (Issa=Jesus), I see their eyes light up. For each of them I would like to be another Jesus, who is there to welcome and take care of them, through me. The chance to do so is like God’s answer for me.”
Mar 8, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Mar 8, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“We could say that it is the moment for women: not because the media endlessly focus on divorce and VIP trends but because of the fact that more than ever today, coexistence and the fruit of man-woman dialectics call for the presence of those who are, or will be mothers, naturally or spiritually. The social body as never before suffers the lack of full health and normal feminineness: it is as if its flight was done with two wings, one of which was too overwrought, and the other lifeless, which make its progress very disorderly. People are aware that this is the time for woman, but of a womanly woman, and not a contamination or contrast of man: almost like a feminised man. The history of the last centuries in which the strong man – the superman – had been forged in disdain for feminineness, was affected by excessive masculinity, not counterbalanced by feminineness. The same but contrary effect of non-integrated feminineness is imbued by a sense of virility. Women today have voting rights, gained managing roles in offices, and entered into public life. But their impact remains dull, like before or even worse since by entering the political battles they align with the males, taking on their ambitions, and bowing to their methods: they have become reduced-performance males. Their votes, without outstanding discrimination are added to those of men since the latter’s game continues as before, without corrections, integration, or being enlightened by the other, which is an indispensable factor. And so the flight (or plunge) continues with only one wing. Just think of what Mary’s fascination was like, and what it still is today – her name alone signifies the sublimation of woman who was made to become the grafting point of the divine onto the human, and as the ianua coeli, door to Heaven, the rise of the human towards the divine. Societies today call for the presence of the woman, so that she could imbue in society the demands for maternity, life, and therefore, of material and moral nutrition, education, love in peace and work, of the family gathered in pureness and thus, the condemnation of factions and wars. This is because woman by nature stands for generation of life and not production of death, for the good of the offspring which are the State and the Church of the future, the same humanity.” (Igino Giordani, “Fides” publication, 1961)
Mar 7, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
“We got to know a family from Burundi who in the current terrible situation in their country, about which we hear very little, have left the country like many other families and come to Kampala where we live,”write us from Uganda. “The husband went back to Burundi so as not to lose his job and to be able to pay the rent on the house in Uganda and buy food for their children, including a three week old baby. “His wife had not been able to stay in Burundi when shooting began again in their city, as she had too vivid memories of all that had happened in the 1990s during the civil war. Then she had miraculously escaped death because the Headmaster of the school she attended had twice paid off soldiers who had come to the school on two consecutive days to look for her and the other girls. So, when the first signs of trouble began, the family had decided to go, leaving all they had behind in Bujumbura. They had brought other relatives with them, so there were 8 of them in all. “We heard that the rent did not cover furniture and that they had only 4 chairs in the living room: what could we do? We thought that four of our folding chairs, used occasionally when many people come to our house, would be made better use of in their house, so that at least everyone could sit and eat comfortably. “As we left we cut two pumpkins from the garden to take with us. We had planted a number of them almost by chance a few months earlier and they had picked up after the dry season and had been extremely useful in recent weeks! Moreover, just the day before we had received some food supplies. Providence has never been lacking over the last few months and it is truly by sharing it that the Gospel promise “give and gifts will be given to you” comes true. So we took two kilos of sugar, two of rice, one kilo of salt and a litre of oil and went to see the family. “Their house was new and clean and there were some unusual trimmings on the ceiling as well as a nice light fitting. But there were no beds in the bedrooms, only mattresses. In the living room there was a small round plastic table and four chairs, a little television in the corner on the floor with an antenna hanging over visitors’ heads. We could not see any toys or other furniture. “We went in with the chairs and spent two very happy hours with the family getting to know them better and sharing past memories and hopes for the future. The children are not going to school at the moment. The older ones want to go to university but it is much more expensive in Uganda than Burundi so it is not possible for now. Finding work is difficult too, as many people are unemployed and it is almost impossible for foreigners if you don’t know someone. What is more they don’t speak luganda, the local language, and English is not their mother tongue either. But they said “… We trust in God!”. “It was already 7.30 in the evening and we needed to go home. We all said goodbye. They were so happy we had come but as soon as we asked them to keep the chairs, and return them when they left that house, their faces lit up and they thanked us again and again! Before getting into the car they wanted to give us their blessing! On the way home I thought that four ordinary chairs and two pumpkins, once given, can fill the hearts, both of those who receive and those who give, with joy…” (S.M. Uganda)
Mar 6, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“What should not have happened, has happened: a terrible war has begun and the whole world is holding its breath, fearing it might spread and involve other nations.” It was a few weeks after the US invasion of Iraq, which took place on 17th January 1991, in response to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait on 2nd August 1990. Chiara Lubich wrote on the subject of peace for Città Nuova magazine. This is taken from an editorial in February 1991. “Despite so many prayers, God has permitted the war. Why? Because the will of those responsible for it did not coincide with His will, expressed by the chorus of voices of those who were in the right. The Holy Father, the world’s greatest spiritual and moral authority, summed up these voices in his own constant appeals for peace, affirming the uselessness of war in resolving problems and its inevitable disastrous consequences. We can only hope that in the mysterious plans of God and because of His infinite love, He will draw something good from this immense evil. We don’t deserve it, but we know the immensity of His mercy. For this reason and above all so that peace may return, we will not stop praying. On the contrary! Now our “time out” to pray in unity for peace at noon each day will need to be even more intense. Moreover, we must all feel called in this moment to follow with determination a life style which corrects, at least within us (and through the communion of saints in many others), the mistake that has been made. Human beings have not done the will of God, the will of the God of peace. They did their own will. We must make every effort, as never before, to carry out the will of God perfectly. “Not my will but yours be done”. Today these words of Jesus must acquire an altogether special importance for us. Compared to His word, everything else must become secondary. We shouldn’t give much importance in our lives to being healthy or sick, to studying or serving, to sleeping or praying, to living or dying. What matters is to make his will our own, to be his will lived out. This is the way we lived at the beginning of our Movement when, in the setting of another war, the Spirit gave us the light to understand the true value of things. Faced with the destruction caused by hatred, God revealed himself as the one ideal that does not pass, that no bomb could destroy. God Love, this was the great discovery, a spiritual bomb of such power that it made us literally forget all the bombs falling around us in the war. We discovered that beyond everyone and everything was God who is love, and his providence which makes all things work together for the good of those who love him. We identified the signs of his love in each circumstance, even in the pain of suffering. He loved us immensely. How could we love him in return? It is not the one who says Lord, Lord, who loves me, but the one who does my will.” We could love God by doing his will. Living like this we got used to listening with every greater attention to “the voice” within us, the voice of our conscience which emphasized the will of God expressed in different ways, through his Word, the duties of our state in life, circumstances, inspirations. We were certain that God would draw us into a divine adventure, at first unknown to us, where as both spectators and actors in his design of love, we could give the contribution of our own free will, moment by moment. A short while later he let us see something of our future, helping us see clearly the purpose for which the Movement was coming about: to fulfill Jesus’ prayer in his testament: “Father, may they all be one”, to work together to achieve a more united world. We can live like this now too. Have we experienced an aburpt and painful change? Do we have to run to air raid shelters often, just like in those far off days? Are we at times fearful, anguished, believing we are going to die? Or are we living life as we always did, with our daily tasks, far from danger? For all of us what matters is what is of most value: not one thing or the other, but God’s will. Let’s ‘listen’ putting his will in the first place in our heart, our memory, our mind; putting before all else, all our strength at his service. In this way we will rectify, at least in ourselves, the error that has been made. And Christ will stay in our hearts and we will therefore be more together, more united, more ‘one’, sharing everything, praying for one another and for peace to return.” Chiara Lubich: Attualità leggere il proprio tempo,[Current affairs: reading our own times] Città Nuova Ed., pag.85-87. Originally published in Città Nuova n. 4/1991
Mar 5, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“One day I’ll tell you, I’ve given up my happiness for you.” This is the first line of a song by Stadio, the recent winner at the Sanremo Italian Song Festival. It gives us the opportunity to think about our own happiness and that of the people around us. Society has placed the search for personal happiness at the core of own humanism, banishing to the end of the line other values, including the happiness of others – unless they are useful for increasing our happiness. And we no longer have mental categories for understanding the decisions (that still exist) of those who knowingly sacrifice their own happiness for the happiness of another. […] Happiness has had a long history. Christian humanism which innovated many elements of the Greek culture, proposed the idea of “limited happiness” wherein the pursuit of our personal happiness was never considered the ultimate goal of life, because it was subordinate to other values, such as the happiness of the community, the family or the eternal life. For centuries we believed that the only happiness worthy of being achieved was that of others, of everyone. […] 
In the modern age this ancient and deeply rooted idea of happiness went into a deep crisis and the pre-Christian idea of happiness as the ultimate and absolute goal of life, began to gain ground. […] The contemporary economy with its Anglo Saxon model was a perfect match for the idea of personal happiness. […] As far as the economy is concerned, the earth is inhabited only by people who want to achieve complete personal happiness. Such a description of human choices explains many things, but is useless or misleading when it comes to explaining those few but decisive choices that are connected to our moral and spiritual life. When Abraham headed for Mount Moriah with his son Isaac, he certainly wasn’t thinking of his own happiness […] but certainly was following a most sorrowful voice that led him on. Like him, many people still continue to climb the Mount Moriahs of their lives. There are many good things in our life that are not measured against our personal happiness, and some not even against the happiness of others. The important choices are most often tragic choices. We don’t choose between a good and an evil, but between two goods. There are other choices in which we step off the calculator. And other moments in which we are not even able to choose, but only mutter a submissive “yes”. The world is filled with people who in some decisive moments do not seek their own happiness. […] Happiness, truth, justice and faith are all primary goods that can never be reduced to only one – even if that one is happiness. We can have a clear idea of which choice will make us happier, we can include in that happiness nearly all the beautiful things of life even the highest, but in spite of this we can freely decide not to choose our happiness when other values come into play and call to us. In that case we might learn a new word: joy which, unlike happiness, never be sought but only accepted as a gift. Anybody who ever left their mark on this world wasn’t pursuing their own personal happiness. They would have considered that too little. Sometimes they found it but never stopped to grab onto it. They preferred to continue the walk following the voice that was leading them. At the end of the walk we won’t be left with the happiness we accumulated. If we’re left with anything, it will be things that are far more serious and true. We are much more than our personal happiness. […] Luigino Bruni La voce dei giorni/1 – Read Italian text (Source: Avvenire)
Mar 4, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Khaled Bentounès, Sufi Master of the Alâwiiya, an Algerian born in 1949, is a man of peace. Living in France since the 1960s, he was behind many useful and worthwhile projects: from founding the Muslim Scouts of France, to l‘association Terres d’Europe; from the international talks at UNESCO for an Islam of peace, to the Alawaiya International Sufi Association which he founded, and an international mobilising campaign that the United Nations would institute a World LiveTogether Day. On February 26th, he visited the Focolare’s International Centre where he had a conversation with Focolare president, Maria Voce, and co-president Jesús Morán. During the course of the visit we had the opportunity to ask him a few questions. The first question was about his many projects over the years and now: “To give a quick answer to your question, I’m working on converting myself to the vision of a more fraternal world, more harmonious, a more just world. I work for this ‘circle’ of brotherhood, that I might see it before leaving this world, that I might see fulfilled the dream of a large portion of humanity. I don’t know if I’ll ever see it, but at least I have the assurance that I made a contribution.” When asked about the reasons for his hope in a time when brotherhood amongst peoples does not seem to have a place, Khaled Bentounès said that he found reasons to hope “first of all in the rich spritual legacy he received from his ancestors, for whom fraternity was inescapable. When I look at where I come from, I see but one uninterrupted line. “I happen to meet people involved in politics or the economy who describe a world heading to insoluble problems, and I say to them what our Masters say to us: ‘If they tell you that the world will end tomorrow, what should you do? Continue with your sowing and planting! Don’t worry too much!” So, we do what we have to do! We plant and we sow love, hope and brotherhood – whatever comes! Even if the end of the world will come tomorrow, as long as there is a minute left, you need to use it. Perhaps tomorrow will be another day, another world. And persevere!” Khaled Bentounès, who in 1986 had attended the meeting in Assisi with John Paul II and other religious leaders of the world, also has a knowledge of the Focolare that goes back to a meeting he had with Chiara Lubich in the 1980s. The relationship continued in France, up to his recent collaboration in assigning of the 2015 Chiara Lubich Fraternity Prize to the Vivre ensemble à Cannes Association which he promotes. What is your relationship with the Focolare today? What are the common ideals? The sheikh responds: “I think that time has made this relationship fertile, and today’s meeting is also a fruit of the past. The friendship has remained constant. My presence here today in the International Centre and the meeting with the president, Maria Voce and with the co-president shows that it continues. We spoke about mutual trust, about the project of bringing forward a more fraternal vision of the world around us; about how Christian and Muslim spiritual movements can operate to offer their witness to those who wish to listen to them. We do not pretend to change the world alone, but it is a fact that there are links amongst different religious traditions that must be strengthened, so that we can walk together towards a common future that must be built each of us with the other, and not against the other.” He concluded the interview by sharing a dream: “There are science academies, mathematics academies, philosophy and military academies – and there are no peace academies. Why? Spiritual effort is not enough. We need to teach it. Peace is not something that descends from heaven, it is something around which you ‘work’. It is an existential state, a vision of the world, a behaviour. There is economic peace, there is social peace, there is political peace. Peace regards everything. Ecology is a form of peace with nature. We need to learn how you make peace. I have this project at heart! How do we link peace and art, peace and architecture? Can peace be transmitted to the future generations through art? How could we, through a solid economy, create knowledge sharing and wealth sharing in a way that is just, beyond land or country? This is a sacrosanct ‘work in progress’! This academy is not just a word, it is a concrete task that must accompany our efforts in every field.” He concluded: “I think this is our spirituality, which feeds the conscience to go farther, and to include everyone.”
Mar 3, 2016 | Non categorizzato
March 5, 2016, Brescia, Italy At the Catholic University: “Paul VI And Chiara Lubich, The Prophecy Of A Church That Makes Itself Dialogue Conference,” organised in collaboration with Paul VI Institute in continuation of the “Make Dialogue Days” held in Castel Gandolfo during November 2014. Among the presenters: Archbishop Vincenzo Zani, Secretary of the Congregation for Catholic Education; Lucia Albignente, who is in charge of the historical sector of the Chiara Lubich Centre; Father Angelo Maffeis, president of Paul VI Institute; Franco Monaco, politician and journalist; Alberto Lo Presti, professor of Political Theory at Sophia University Institute. March 6, 2016, Vicenza, Italy “Beyond The Borders Interreligious Conference” at Centro A. Onisto – Borgo S. Lucia, 51. Speakers: Emeritus Bishop of Aleppo, Armando Bortolaso; Imam of the Islamich community of Veneto, Dr Kamel Layachi and Rita Moussallem from the Focolare’s Centre for Interreligious Dialogue. The event will conclude with a flashmob in Piazza dei Signori. March 6, 2016, Olomouc, Czech Republic At the Catholic Chancery, a Cultural programme on the figure of Chiara Lubich as a sower of peace, followed by the celebration of the Mass by Archbishop Jan Graubner in cathedral. March 8, 2016, Ischia, Italy At the island’s Multi-Purpose Auditorium, 19:30, an evening programme on Work & Neigborhood. Civil engineer, Patience Mollè Lobè and business owner, Antonio Diana will be among the presenters. The moderator will be Carlo Cefaloni, Città Nuova journalist and expert on workplace dynamics. March 11, 2016, Caserta, Italy Music, testimonies and theater, at the Reggia di Caserta, 19:30, a reflection on the life and thought of Chiara Lubich titled: “The great attraction of the modern time”. Through the collaboration of the Diocese and the Directors of the Reggia. March 11, 2016, Rosario, Argentina A meeting at the Catholic University of Argentina (UCA) will reflect on the influence of the charism of unity on education. Presenters include: Dr Nieves Tapia, Coordinator of the Latin American Centre for Service Learning (CLAYSS). March 11-12, 2016, Fontem, Cameroon Workshop with music, drawing, poetry and theatre on “Chiara and Peace” for the students of 20 schools that belong to the Peace Education Project. Awards for the best pieces and for significant gestures of peace by the students themselves. The event will also be attended by civil authorities, traditional and religious authorities. March 12, 2016, Garden Grove, USA At Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove, holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Kevin William Vann, from the Diocese of Orange. In the afternoon, at the Academy Gym, a meeting on multiculturalism with representatives from various religions and ethnicities. March 12, 2016, Caracas, Venezuela Presentation of Chiara Lubich as a builder of dialogue and peace, who was awarded the 1996 UNESCO Peace Prize. The event will take place at the Institute For Religious Education (ITER) with people from different Churches. March 12, 2016, Brasilia, Brazil At the Paulist University (UNIP), at 15:30, 1996 UNESCO Peace Prize to Chiara Lubich. Followed by three moments of reflection: building peace in our personal relationships; in the dialogue amongst churches and religions and, in collaboration with the Institute of Immigration and Human Rights (IMDH), with mirgrants and refugees. Entrance fee: 1 kg of food for Haitian immigrants. March 12, 2016, Todi, Italy Tenth anniversary of the conferment of honorary citizenship on Chiara Lubich, at 15:30, in the Council Hall: “A Humanised Economy”, which will reflect on the Economy of Communion Project that was conceived by Chiara Lubich. Besides the Mayor of the city, interventions will be made by the President of the Region of Umbria, Cardinal Ennio Antonelli, Dr Giuseppe Argiolas and two business owners: Andrea Cruciani and Antonio Baldaccini. March 12, 2016, Castel Gandolfo, Italy At the Mariapolis Centre (Via de La Salle), 17:30, a programme of reflection on “The Culture Of Dialogue As A Means Of Peace.” The invitation is extended to ecclesiastical and civil leaders, and to the general public. Besides numerous testimonies, the keynote address will be given by Focolare president, Maria Voce. March 12, 2016, Manfredonia, Italy The 7th Edition of the Manfrodian Chiara Lubich Brotherhood Prize. In attendance: Vera Baboun, Mayor of Bethlehem and Pasquale Ferrara, diplomat and Secretary General of the European University Institute of Florence. Info March 12, 2016, Milan, Italy “Me Through You” Event, highlighting how the search for peace brings us closer to others and to our true self. The event will take place in three half-hour sections, each in a different location and at different times so that everyone can attend all the sections: at the Basilica of Saint Ambrose; Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Institute; Gonzaga Institute. Info March 12, 2016, Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzergovina An Open Day at the School of Theology dedicated to Chiara Lubich: “The Message of Dialogue and Peace.” Participants include people of Christian confessions, other faiths and people with no religious affiliation. Archbishop of Sarajevo, Cardinal Vinko Pujic, will celebrate Mass in cathedral. March 12, 2016, Genoa, Italy In the Minor Council Hall of the Piazza Ducale, a discussion on the Encyclical Letter Laudato si’ during a programme titled: “Religions Dialogue For Peace And the Environment.” Presenters will include: President of the Islamic Community of Genoa, Huseim salah; Chief Rabbi of Genoa, Giuseppe Momigliano; Buddhist monk, Gnanathilaka Mahauswewe; environmental engineer, Andrea Ponta; from the Focolare’s Centre for Interreligious Dialogue, Roberto Catalano March 12, 2016, Milan, Italy “Me Through You” Event, highlighting how the search for peace brings us closer to others and to our true self. The event will take place in three half-hour sections, each in a different location and at different times so that everyone can attend all the sections: at the Basilica of Saint Ambrose; Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Institute; Gonzaga Institute. Info March 12, 1016, Solingen, Germany At Zentrum Frieden Mariapolis Centre, “Living together in diversity”. The German Movement for Unity in Politics invites everyone to a roundtable with politicians and city administrators. It will be followed by a discussion on the integration of refugees. March 13, 2016, Kikwit, Democratic Republic of the Congo The city Mayor will the event at the Jesuit School where, in the presence of civil and religious authorities, a reflection on Peace and the Light of the Charism of Unity will be held. An event under the same title will be held the same day in Goma, Lubumbashi and in 16 cities of the Democratic Republic of the Congo March 13, 2016, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo In the Great Hall of the Catholic University, in the presence of religious leaders from different Churches and religions, the academic and diplomatic world, a discussion on Chiara as Woman of Peace. An intervention will be given by the UNESCO representative in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. March 13, 2016, San Salvador, El Salvador Roundtable on “Peace that is born from dialogue” at the Università F. Gavidia, in the auditorium of Edificio E, 9:00 – 12:00 March 13, 2016, Lisbon, Portugal At the Franciscan Cultural Centre, a roundtable on ‘Chiara and Peace’ with members of the National Peace and Justice Commission, Dr Pedro Vaz Patto, President, Dr Graça Franco and António Marujo, journalists. March 13, 2016, Melbourne, Australia At the Mariapolis Centre, a celebration titled “Build peace in your own environment” , including testimonies on welcoming refugees. Presentation of Mark Ruse’s documentary film: “Politics for unity: making a world of difference”. Those in attendance include: Vicar General of the Diocese, Msgr Greg Bennet and leaders of ecclesial movements operating in Australia. March 13, 2016, Bujumbura, Burundi At Scheppen High School of Nyakabiga : “Merciful Like The Heavenly Father, Building Peace.” Presenters include: the Archbishop of Bujumbura, Evariste Ngoyagoye. March 13, 2016, Vung Tau, Vietnam Annual Mariapolis in Vietnam, in the presence of the Bishop, Joseph Tran Văn Toan, who will celebrate the Mass. The programme will also include the presentation of a documentary film on Chiara Lubich: Story, Charism, Culture. March 14, 2016, Houston, USA “Unity In Diversity” Interreligious Conference at 19:00 in the St. Thomas University, preceeded by the celebration of Catholic Mass in St. Basil Chapel by the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, Cardinal Joseph Anthony Fiorenza. Presenters include: Cardinal Fiorenza; Imam Qasim Ahmed from the Islamic Institute; Rabbi Steve Morgen from the Beth Yeshurun Congregation; Therese Lee from the Focolare Movement. Info March 14, 2016, Manila, Philippines During the 50th anniversary celebration of the arrival of the Focolare in Asia, at De La Salle University, a symposium title: “The Charism Of Unity, A Timeless Legacy.” Numerous religious and civil leaders will present the reflections on Chiara Lubich’s contribution to the unity among Churches, religions, in society, an on Gospel reciprocity as a lifestyle that creates brotherhood. March 14, 2016, Rome, Italy At the Shrine of Our Lady of the Divine Love, at 18:30, Mass celebrated by Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, Prefect of the Congregation for Consecrated Life. Info March 14, 2016, Trent, Italy At the Demarchi Foundation, presenation of the book by I. Pedrini: “L’altro Novecento: nella testimonianza di Duccia Calderari.” Duccia’s biography, one of the first witness who followed Lubich in the birth of the Focolare, gives the opportunity to: Monica Ronchini, researcher; Giuseppe Ferrandi, Director of the History Museum of Trent; and Lucia Fronza Crepaz, ex-parliamentarian – to reflect on Chiara as a builder of peace. March 14, 2016, Havana, Cuba At Fray Bartolomé de las Casas Cultural Centre, a presentation of the figure of Chiara and peace, in the presence of Apostolic Nunzio, Archbishop Giorgio Lingua. Follwed by a concert by the Ars Longa Ancient Music Group. March 14, 2016, Verona, Italy At the Palazzo Gran Guardia: presentation of the “Chiara Lubich For A Culture Of Peace Brotherhood Prize, in the presence of Muslim theologian, Sharharzad Houshmand; Professor at the University of Padua, Giuseppe Milan; journalist Aurora Niosia March 16, 2016, Rome, Italy At the Chamber of Deputies, presentation of a manifesto with concrete proposals for peace, disarmament and industrial conversion.To receive it in Parliament, Youth for a United World who, with the Movement for Unity in Politics and participating schools, promoted the project, along with several deputies, the President of the Chamber, Boldrini and Exterior Minister, Gentiloni. March 16, 2016, Seville, Spain At the Metropolitan Seminary, Dr Manual Palma, vice director of the Theological Union of Seville, will speak on Jesus, Prince of Peace in the Spirituality of Chiara Lubich. Followed by a discussion on peace in Islam to be held by Imam Allah Bashar from the King Abdul Aziz Al Saud Mosque of Marbella, Malaga). He will also talk about his relationship with Chiara Lubich. March 18-20, 2016, Milan, Italy At the Fieramilanocity, during the international fair, an exposition on the Economy of Communion, presenting Lubich’s message of peace that continues to reach today’s world. Info March 19, 2016, Perth, Australia At Northbridge Square, screening of a video clip on “Peace” produced by young people, and a signature campaign appealing for peace #Signup4peace.
Mar 3, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Nothing is the same in the capital city of the Central African Republic, after the visit of Pope Francis called it the “spiritual capital of the world.” Fidelia is a Congolese focolarina who has been living in Bangui for seven years. From 2012 until last September, she has seen with her own eyes the constant onslaught of armed clashes that over and over wiped out cities and villages, sowing seeds of horror and death everywhere. Now things appear quite changed and general opinion is that it was the visit of the Pope which marked the change in course. Fidelia comments: “Even in the provinces they’re talking about a before and an after. For example, the second round of presidential elections was held, and everything went fine. It was the same for the electoral campaign. But either one of them could have turned violent. Everyone is saying that when the Pope came, it was as if God himself had come, and so we can’t turn back now. They feel that the Pope took us ‘to the other shore’ and that we should continue moving forward all the way to true and lasting peace. Everyone seems convinced that if we want to reach social cohesian, forgiveness will be required, mercy and reconcilliation. You can sense a change of mentality beneath those words, a change of behaviour. Also the way we speak to one another – Muslims and Christians – has changed! Fidelia’s words are truly encouraging, not only for the Central African Republic, but for all the places in the world where the sound of weapons needs to stop so that solutions can be found through dialogue. 
Fidelia also showed us other aspects of the life of Central Africa. She told us, for example, that in recent weeks she and three others of the Bangui had treked 400 km to reach the small city of Bambio, where a small community animated by the spirituality of the Focolare was begun with the help of a Capuchin missionary. Fidelia recounts: “We met several families there, many young people, all of them very motivated. Even though Father Umberto had to return to Italy, they carried on for all these years, continuing to gather and encourage one another in living the Gospel, with the help of a book by Chiara Lubich which he had left to them.” Meeting this community that had kept the flame of the Gospel burning for over twenty years, filled her with joy and amazement. But they had no idea that there was another surprise in store for them in that village. There are several Pygmy villages in the surrounding areas. They are known for their small stature and living primarily in the forests with their own customs and rules. Fidelia explained: “Many people think that it’s not easy to establish a relationship with them, but having to cross through their settlements, it was only natural that we stop and visit with them, and tell them what we were doing in those parts. Encouraged by their openness and their willingness, we got to know each other and shared about the values we believe in. Some of them showed great feeling for the spirituality of unity that we told them about. We agreed to return at Easter, to continue knowing and sharing with one another.”
Mar 2, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Peace as a prerequisite to any other action in favour of Syria: is the opinion of Bishop Samir Nassar, Maronite Archbishop of Damascus, during the convention of the Bishop friends of the Focolare held in Castelgandolfo from 23to 26 February, on the eve of the ceasefire in the Country. It is Bishop Nassar’s second time to attend this event on the hills of Rome and he said: “the first meeting had enriched me so much that I decided to return… I come from Damascus, a place tormented by violence and war, and this is a break which allows me, with my brother bishops and the attention of the Focolare, to look beyond, and have a more global vision of the future of the world, the Church, and Christians in the Middle East. Thus it is fraternal support which this event gives me, for the life of my diocese.” In the face of the war conditions his country is undergoing, Bishop Nassar forcefully stresses that “the Church of Syria refuses to die and is holding onto the hope of concrete signs. In 2015, for example, we started to build three chapels precisely when the people were leaving, to imbue hope to the faithful in the outskirts and where people no longer came to the cathedral for security reasons. We keep hope alive also through the vocations: there are young priests and seminarians who arrive, and this a sign of vitality and hope for the future.”
The Archbishop expressed his gratitude also for the work of the Focolare Movement, that continues to be present in Syria despite the conflict: “For what I see in Damascus, the Movement is really doing an excellent job with the youth, families and children – he affirmed. It encourages the people to see the future with faith and hope: this is support for the community, a sign of the Spirit that helps us pursue this path.» Also in this regard, the news of the arrival of a new focolarina in Damscus «is another sign that in Syria there is a Church that looks to the future and is not afraid to die. Your presence is a sign of hope and renewal, and I thank you all so much». It is a sign which is even more important in a country whose «people are tired of the war, suffering, and poverty, and the news is not encouraging. Our mission as the Church and as the Focolare is to give courage.”
As to the international communities, Bishop Nassar saw with regret that “the world says it is very concerned about Syria, but each one says so in his own way: so much so that in the end nobody really is working for the interest of the Country.» And he launched an appeal: «Stop the war. If the war does not stop, all we are doing is useless. Let’s bring back peace and then rebuild charity and love of the Church. As Pope Francis himself says: the poor do not have a religion, only man counts. We are first of all awaiting steps towards peace, the rest is secondary.”
Mar 1, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
“When the administrative staff informed us that it was the 100th degree to be conferred, I thought it couldn’t have been otherwise. Each graduate has marked an important moment in our journey, but the fact that the hundredth dissertation was to be conferred precisely on Akie Otomo, was significant for us.” comments Judith Povilus, vice-president of Sophia University Institute, who accompanied the academic path of Akie Otomo and Yukie Ohi, two students of the Buddhist movement, Risshō Kōsei-kai, who have completed a degree in Foundations and Perspectives of a Culture of Unity. Yukie Ohi graduated in the summer semester last year, while on 11 February 2016 it was Akie Otomo’s turn. The success of her research was greeted by a warm applause emphasizing its appreciation by the whole academic community. The subject of the thesis, a comparison between “The hoza in Risshō Kōsei-kai” and “the life of unity in the spirituality of the Focolare Movement”, matured in a climate of mutual listening and acceptance with the active involvement of the two professors who guided the student: Anna Pelli, Professor of Philosophy, and Antonella Deponte, Professor of Psychology. “The focal point is of great interest as it deals with two such diverse associations, the Risshō Kōsei-kai and the Focolare Movement, yet their pulse beats as one: communion. And this was accomplished by implementing two unique practices: on the one hand the hoza, which is characteristic of the “cycle of compassion”, whereby a group of people meet to share their personal problems and find mutual support in the light of the teachings of Buddha, and on the other hand, the “spiritual communion” guided by the words of the Gospel, which makes it possible for people to share their experiences and to walk together towards God.” As the work progressed, it became increasingly clear that it could only be understood if channelled into the prophetic experience resulting from the meetings of dialogue between Nikkyo Niwano and Chiara Lubich, two eminent figures of the twentieth century: the first, the Buddhist founder and leader of Risshō Kōsei-kai, the only non-Christian observer at Vatican II; and the second, a Catholic woman who inspired a worldwide movement of spiritual renewal that speaks to the hearts of men and women of different faiths and cultures. Over the years, many similarities have led them to work together effectively for peace and mutual understanding between people and nations, reaching the point of giving their own particular experience of faith. Among other things, the thesis documents the exchange of correspondence between them, citing some paragraphs which allowed the Japanese student to focus in a surprising way on some of the cornerstones of the culture of unity, which, in her views, open up dialogue and sharing. “It was on this foundation,” says Professor Pelli, “that the intuition that guided Akie in her research took shape. In the process, each of us experienced the meeting point of that which is real dwelling in ourselves and the truth dwelling in the other; we discovered that this connection was something that in a certain way already belonged to us while at the same time it opened us up to broader perspectives. I am convinced that this experience is the fruit of being in this privileged place, at Sophia University, which strives daily to ensure that life and thought, intellectual pursuit and existential approach work towards a substantial converging towards the good, through the reciprocal gift of our diversity.” “I am very grateful for the time I spent in Sophia,” Akie concluded in her presentation. “Not only have I come closer to knowing Chiara Lubich’s thoughts, which I appreciate so much, but also to get to know more deeply the life and message of Nikkyo Niwano. I wish to take ahead this research. I want to be more committed in my daily life so that through the contribution of all religions, we can bring about harmony, unity and peace in the world.” Souce: Sophia University Institute Online
Feb 29, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“Reinhard from Austria, aged 55, tells us his experience: «A few years ago – during my work shift at the post office – I was stabbed by a youth suffering from psychic problems: I had 27 stab wounds. The young man only stopped when certain I was about to die, I looked him in the eyes and said: “I forgive you.” It was only then that he let the knife in his hands fall to the ground. The psychologists sustained that I had not suffered any trauma. They had to operate on me and I lost a lung and can walk with the help of crutches, but I am miraculously alive. Today, many ask me to talk about the incident and why I forgave him: teachers, priests, young people, Christians, Muslim and atheists. I have met around 2,000 people as of now, and every time I can’t help but speak about the art of Loving, because for years, including that fateful day, every morning I launch the love dice. Many young people, after the meetings, tell me they want to know more about this lifestyle. Every time they invite me, it is a marvellous occasion to spread the ideal of fraternity, the Golden Rule, in the region of Vorarlberg where I live. An atheist boy, some time ago told me: “You know, I’m not interested in religion, but your way of living interests me a lot!”.” (Feldkirch, Austria ) “One evening, we spoke with Lina on the phone. She was our friend who lives in Damascus (Syria). She told us about the difficulties of living in a warring environment: the risks due to the frequent explosions of mortar shells; difficulties arising from lack of food, water and clothes, the continuous lack of electricity and heating… in short, she did not ask us for anything. But upon hearing her words, we felt deep inside that though far away, we had to do something! We immediately shared this idea with other friends… Right away, we were surprised how many things started arriving…. They gave what they could! Families, young couples, adolescents, children, communities, parishes, other associations….Without realising it, a competition of love had begun. For example, a lady sold some gold trinkets and gave us the money. A boy who had celebrated his birthday had asked his guests, in place of birthday gifts, to contribute for his Syrian brethren. A family shared its life savings because “we were keeping them for special occasions! And helping someone is one of them!”… So in a short time, we collected €20,000! With this sum we managed to help many Syrian families in need, bringing them food, clothes, the basic necessities… but above all, we brought them a hug as big as the world, making them feel that they were no longer abandoned, but part of a huge family!” (Rossana and Emanuele, Italy) Source: United World Project
Feb 28, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Having mentioned some of the challenges in the world today – the threats to peace and the search for and affirmation of identity – Maria Voce offered some reflections arising out of Chiara Lubich’s charismatic experience of dialogue. Her talk was given on 26th January at the India International Centre in New Delhi If we seek to grasp the specific characteristics of the Movement’s dialogue, the first of them can be seen as its foundation. Chiara [Lubich] always taught us to look to God as the one Father of all and as a result, to see every man or woman we meet as his son or daughter, and therefore our brother or sister. Chiara herself said this, writing to her companions in 1947: “We must keep our gaze fixed on the one Father of so many children, and then consider all people as children of that one Father. Our thoughts and affections must go beyond every human limit and acquire the habit of aiming constantly towards this universal brotherhood in our one Father: God.”[i] I remember how happy Chiara was when she told us what our dear Professor Kala Acharya said after their meeting in India in 2001: “Each had grown up enclosed behind its own walls, admiring its own garden, without knowing that on the other side of these very high walls there are beautiful gardens to behold. Now is the time to break down the walls and discover each other’s garden.” If this is the foundation, the dialogical method that Chiara taught us cannot be other than love! It is a dialogue among brothers and sisters, therefore a dialogue among people, not between ideologies or thought systems. Dialogue must necessarily be supported and sustained by mercy, compassion and charity, summed up in the Golden Rule [do to others as you would have them do to you”. Love and mercy, once put at the basis of dialogue, not only enable us to see the people alongside us in a new light, but help us discover diversity, whatever it is, as a gift. Chiara said: “Whoever is close to me has been created as a gift for me and I have been created as a gift for those near me. On earth everything is in a relationship of love with everything else: each thing with each thing. But we need to be Love in order to find the golden thread of love between beings”[ii]. Nowadays, contacts are being multiplied, due to the great many possibilities offered by all the communications media. But these become short, ephemeral, lacking meaning, while at the same time relationships break down or diminish. Only when the I-you relationship includes a love which goes beyond purely natural dimensions, can contacts be transformed into relationships, and we can truly build networks of brotherhood. In this regard religion is called to help give meaning and a soul, as well as true and satisfying answers, to humankind which is so confused and lost and traumatised today. Over the years, we have seen the irreplaceable role religions have to lead their faithful to recognise one another reciprocally, to respect one another, to collaborate and become front runners in building a peaceful world, where justice and respect for the human person prevail. Chiara Lubich, founder of the Focolare Movement, lived and spread this adventure to all those who are inspired by her, an adventure in which any kind of love is not enough, but it is necessary rather to learn an art, as she herself said: the “art of loving”. … If we were all to live this “art”, we would be practising some of the indispensible principles for dialogue among religions. I’ll mention just a few: Unity in diversity. It is necessary for every religion to be welcomed in full respect for all that it considers sacred according to its own tradition. Proselytism and syncretism are incompatible with peace. Reciprocity in relationships In sharing a lived spirituality, each person is enriched not only without risk of compromising their own faith, but with the opportunity to deepen it. Equality in our shared human dignity This is the key to any type of harmonious relationship with a view to collaborating in building democratic societies founded on peace. Many of you know that the charism of Chiara Lubich, founder of the focolare Movement, can be summed up in a single word: unity. It is the specific vocation of the whole Movement, which is committing itself to live unity this year with greater intensity. We want to work and commit ourselves on all fronts to contribute to building a united world, to bring unity peace and reciprocity in every place. Faithfulness to our charism demands this, faithfulness to the first intuition that Chiara expressed in 1946: “In our hearts, one thing is clear: unity is what God wants from us. We live in order to be one with Him and among us and with everyone. This splendid vocation binds us to heaven and immerses us in a universal brotherhood. Nothing could be greater. For us, there could be no loftier Ideal.”[iii]». New Delhi 20th January 2016 [i] C. LUBICH, L’arte di amare, Città Nuova, Roma 2005, p. 29 [ii] C. LUBICH, Scritti Spirituali 1, “L’attrattiva del tempo moderno”, Città Nuova, Roma 1978, 140. [iii]». Cf. C. Lubich, Unity and Jesus Forsaken, New City New York 1985, p. 26.
Feb 27, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Pascal Bedros, a focolarino from Aleppo writes:“With the ceasefire, a calm night enveloped the whole city of Aleppo. Up to the last moment, no one expected it to go through. It’s a first step towards building dialogue and peace. We thank God and the people of good will for this gift. It was a nice gift for the children who slept a peaceful night in the arms of their parents. This weekend we’ll get together in Aleppo, following a long period in which it was impossible for us to come together and share our life in the spirituality of the Focolare which has kept us going in these long years and also illuminated our social effort.” The ceasefire in Syria, the first since the beginning of the conflict in 2011, negotiated by Russia and the United States, began at midnight of February 26th. United Nations special envoy, Staffan De Mistura, announced that peace talks could resume on March 7th if the ceasefire holds. Testimony of the Focolare community in Syria (May 2015) https://vimeo.com/127010352
Feb 26, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Download Call for papers Twenty years ago, in 1996, Chiara Lubich was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Social Sciences from the Catholic University of Lublin in Poland, for having promoted dialogue as the key driving force for peacekeeping and peace-building in every context. Chiara Lubich’s ‘charism of unity’ is at the forefront of dialogue today. The theory and praxis of dialogue has influenced the lives of many people of different cultures and religions, who have committed themselves to her spiritual vision that is embodied in the culture of unity. In a world where ethnic and religious differences often lead to violent conflicts, the spread of the charism of Chiara Lubich has contributed to constructive dialogue among persons, generations, social classes and nations. Five areas of interest have been identified. 1. Dialogue among communities: between charism and institutions 2. Conflict resolution through dialogue 3. The agents of political change and participation processes 4. Individual processes, interpersonal and intergroup levels involved in conflict management and its prevention 5. Dialogue among disciplines and transdisciplinarity Preference will be accorded those contributions able to use multidisciplinary approaches, coming from psychology, economics, pedagogy, politology, sociology and communication studies. A particular characteristic of innovative submissions should consist in a disciplined effort to bridge gaps between theory and practices. Only new and unpublished papers, which can bring added value to the empirical, theoretical, prescriptive and practical understanding and creative engagement of conflict and dialogue, will be selected. The study of the methodological implications of the different forms of conflicts has provoked increasing interest in many disciplines: psychology, economics, sociology, education and media studies, management and organizational studies, human rights and so on. Today’s multi-faith and multicultural society has to cope with a global challenge: mutual understanding and resolving conflicts. In our contemporary world, dialogue is hailed as a progressive necessary force, and is heralded as the main currency of statecraft, diplomacy, negotiation, mediation and peace-building. Hence, experts from different backgrounds agreed that it is imperative to explore intercultural and interreligious dialogue as key to promote mutual understanding among people, cultures, institutions and religions. Call for papers Chiara Lubich Jubilee Conference Programme Congress Organizers Hotel Accommodation Registration Form Sponsors
Keynote speakers:
- Adam Biela, psychology and sociology (John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Poland)
- Catherine Belzung, neurobiologist (University François Rabelais of Tours, France)
- Mauro Magatti, sociologist (Catholic University of Sacred Heart of Milan, Italy)
- Katarzyna Olbrycht, pedagogist (University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland)
- John Raven, psychology, The University of Manchester, Scotland and John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Poland
- Marina Santi, pedagogist (University of Padova, Italy)
- Bogusław Śliwerski, pedagogist (Chairman of the Committee of Pedagogical Sciences PAN, Poland)
- Krzysztof Wielecki, sociologist (Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, Warsaw, Poland)
- Stefano Zamagni, economist (University of Bologna, Italy)
Important dates:
30th March 2016 – Deadline for submissions of abstracts and registration 20th April 2016 – Reply from the scientific committee 20th May 2016 – Deadline for submissions of extended papers and payment
Contacts:
For the congress registration and the paper submission, please email to: congresslublin2016@gmail.com web: http://www.kul.pl/art_31023.html
Feb 26, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“December 1948. This evening, the whole crème of Catholic society in Rovereto was gathered in my father’s study: the presidents of the Catholic Youth, the Saint Vincent Society, the Daughters of Mary, the Franciscan Third Order and naturally the pastor. Plus, eighteen year-old me was there as the president of Student Youth. The speaker was Valeria Ronchetti. There was something in her that took me by surprise. She talked about God, but in a way that I’ve never heard any other person talk – until then. It wasn’t anything external as with a scholar; Valeria possessed God! She expressed something that urged her from the heart and that overflowed with force . . . I was in a state of shock. It was a war story . . . They were experiences of what she, with her friends, had found in the Gospel, how they had discovered God who is Love. It was a torrent of living water that completely engulfed me. In the candlelight – since the electricity had gone out – a quite serious-looking, elderly gentleman asked her in a rather ironic tone: ‘But aren’t you afraid, Miss, to excite the youth in this way? And if it’s just a flash in the pan?’ Valeria was a really enthusiastic type of person, all fire in her words and in her answers. She jumped to her feet and responded with energy: ‘What? Aren’t you afraid of exciting the youth over sport, music, paintings, mountains – all those beautiful things that pass away? And you’re afraid of exciting them over God who is the only thing that remains?’ Total silence: I was completely taken. The mountains, music, paintings . . . Hadn’t I myself tried all of that? I had tried every beautiful and wholesome thing you could ask for, it had completely occupied me for years even, but none of it had ever really filled me up. I had always been left unsatisfied in my search. Well, then, here was the point . . . this is what I sought: it was God who was the answer to that recent period of dissatisfaction, of loneliness, of the confusion among my friends, of activism, of boredom . . . Everyone left my father’s study smiling, exchanging cheerful goodbyes with Valeria. But I didn’t really think we had actually understood what she was telling us. I asked myself: if she could have what she had just talked about – and it was clear that she did – why can’t I have it too? And at this point I recall a saying attributed to Saint Augustine: ‘If this one and that one, then why not me?’ I extended my hand to Valeria and told her: ‘I want to do what you have done, help me!’ We said goodbye and agreed to meet the next day. And the adventure began!” Source: Città Nuova online
Feb 26, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
“I am a clerk and I live in Catanzaro. While participating in a meeting with friends who are committed to social work, I got to know that some young foreigners living in a centre for refugees, needed bicycles to go to work. I remembered that in my garage there were two mountain bikes, still in good condition. These bikes meant a lot to me, since they reminded me of the many long mountain excursions I had with my son. Without hesitating I raised my hand to offer them. But to have them brought to the destination, there some difficulties to overcome. Sometime later I found out that these friends had organised for the end of January, a three-day convention in a touristic village near the residence of the refugees, and in which I was invited to participate. You cannot imagine the joy I felt with this news. I myself could bring these bikes – at zero time frames and costs – and furthermore I could deliver them directly to the beneficiaries and have the chance to meet them. There was, however, another hindrance: the bikes were too bulky and I couldn’t fit them into the boot of my car. Not knowing what to do, I asked a neighbor who deals with used objects, if he had a solution. But when he found out that I wanted to give the bikes to refugees, he started saying that it was better to give them to him since he would earn something, and that he thought “it was not opportune to help these strangers who come to our country to grab from us the little job opportunities there are, and create many problems and social strife.” But on seeing that I kept my grounds on my decision, he said that the car of a common friend of ours had two bike racks, and which was exactly what I needed. When asked, this friend instead was very willing and glad to give me his bike rack. Things proceeded at best. On the set day, four young refugees came to the place of our seminar to retrieve the bikes. The minute they saw the bikes that were still mounted on the top of the car, I saw their eyes light up. They had perhaps thought of retrieving some old rusty bikes, and instead these were nice, new and in perfect working order. We were all happy. Then, shyly, but with great dignity they thanked us saying that they were poor and had nothing to give us in return, but that the same evening they would return to sing their songs with their drum, during the Eucharistic celebration. I am convinced that the friendship that was established will remain.” (Domenico, Italy)
Feb 26, 2016 | Non categorizzato, Word of
God’s kingdom is Jesus present among us. We experience this when we love one another. He is almighty and conquers every evil.
This is what the Jews of the time of Jesus were waiting for: the arrival of God’s kingdom. As soon as he began going around the villages and towns, Jesus started to proclaim: ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you’ (Lk 10:9). Then immediately after that: ‘
The kingdom of God has come to you’; ‘the kingdom of God is among you’ (Lk 17:21).
In the person of Jesus, God’s very self had come into the midst of God’s people and, decisively and with strength, taken back control of history so as to lead it to its goal. Jesus’s miracles were a sign of this. In the person of Jesus, God’s very self had come into the midst of God’s people and, decisively and with strength, taken back control of history so as to lead it to its goal. Jesus’s miracles were a sign of this.
In the Gospel passage that this Word of Life comes from, Jesus had just healed a man who was mute, freeing him from the devil who held him prisoner. It was the demonstration that he had come to conquer evil, every evil, and finally establish the kingdom of God. This term ‘the kingdom of God’ was the Jewish people’s way of saying that God acted for the sake of Israel, freeing the people from every form of slavery and evil, guiding them to justice and peace, flooding them with joy and good things. This was the act of that God who Jesus revealed as ‘Father’ – mysterious, loving and full of compassion, aware of the needs and sufferings of each of his children. We too need to hear Jesus’s proclamation: ‘The kingdom of God has come to you.’ Looking around us we often have the impression that the world is dominated by evil, that the violent and the corrupt have the upper hand. At times we feel ourselves at the mercy of hostile forces, of dangerous events stronger than we are. We feel impotent in the face of wars and environmental calamity, of massacres and climate change, of migration and financial and economic crises. Yet this is where Jesus’s proclamation is set. It invites us to believe that he, right now, is conquering evil and is establishing a new world. In the month of March twenty five years ago, speaking to thousands of young people, Chiara Lubich entrusted them with her dream, ‘it is possible to make the world a better place…. almost a single family, as if belonging to just one country.’ Then as now this looked like a utopia. For the dream to become reality, however, she invited them to live mutual love, in the certainty that acting like this they would have had ‘Christ among you, Christ himself, the Almighty, and from him you can hope for all things.’ Yes, it is he who is the kingdom of God. And so, what do we do? Act in such a way as to have him always in our midst. Chiara went on to say: He himself will work with you in your countries because he will, in a certain way, come again into the world wherever you meet, because you will make him present through your mutual love, through your unity. And he will enlighten you about all that is to be done. He will guide you, he will sustain you, he will be your strength, your fervour, your joy. Because of him, the world around you will be converted to living in harmony; every division will be healed…. Love, therefore, love among you and love sown in many corners of the earth among individuals, among groups, among nations; love sown by every means possible so that the invasion of love, of which we have spoken at times in the past, may become a reality and so that, also through your contribution, the civilization of love we all await may begin to take on solid form. You have been called to this, and you will see great things.[1]. Fabio Ciardi [1]. Address to the fourth international youth festival (Genfest) of ‘Youth for a United World,’Paleur sports stadium, Rome, 31 March 1990 in Chiara Lubich, Essential Writings, (London and New York, 2007), 366.
Feb 25, 2016 | Non categorizzato
60 Bishop-friends of the Focolare Movement, representing 31 countries (Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Bénin, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Democratic Rep.of Congo, Tanzania, Thailand, India, Pakistan, Brazil, Venezuela, Panama, U.S.A., Uruguay, Austria, Spain, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Czech Rep., Latvia, the Rep.of Moldova, Romania, Ukraine, Hungary.), are presently gathered at Castelgandolfo (22-26 February). The participation at the General Audience held by Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Square has been the central point of this meeting. In his address the Pope urged the Bishops “to always keep alive the charism of unity in the apostolic ministry, in communion with the successor of Peter”. “A synodal Church is a Church that listens, that realizes that listening ‘is more than simply hearing’. It is a mutual listening in which everyone has something to learn.” This type of Church, as defined by the Pope during the ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the institution of the Synod of Bishops, indicates the track to be followed during this conference. The choice of the title “A Church which generates unity” stems from the belief that, at a time marked by tensions and increasing disintegration, the people of God are called to contribute in a vital manner towards building relationships at all levels and in all environments. This has to be lived, first of all, within the Church itself and its source must be in the heart of a merciful God. The core of this theme lies in understanding Jesus’ prayer to the Father for unity (Jn 17), as “ gift, commitment and achievement”. Maria Voce, president of the Focolare Movement and Jesús Morán, co-president spoke about this approach in the light of Chiara Lubich’s charism.
Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri
Feb 24, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Maria Grazia Brusadelli (centre)
Feb 23, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Chiara Lubich lived on this earth from January 22, 1920 until March 14, 2008. On the day she died thousands of people filled the streets of Rocca di Papa where the International Headquarters of the Focolare Movement is located as well as Chiara’s house. They were there to pay their final respects, and even larger crowds attended her funeral at the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls. In the years that followed, her anniversary became an occasion to reflect on different aspects of the life, witness and thought of Chiara Lubich: ecumenical dialogue (Trent, 2012); the charism of unity and young people (2012); charism, history, culture (2013); interreligious dialogue (2014); politics for unity (2015). On January 27th of the same year there was the official opening of the Cause of Canonisation. In 2016 the focus will be on peace. Chiara Lubich was a peacemaker. She opened paths of dialogue at many levels and was internationally recognised, like when she was awarded the UNESCO Prize For Peace Education in 1996. Her spirituality, which also translates into the daily practice of universal brotherhood, has inspired hundreds of projects around the world that are aimed at enriching the world with humanity and solidarity through caring for Creation. These projects are all gathered in the United World Project (UWP). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR_MvehHeIk While responding to Pope Francis’s appeal, on behalf of the Movement, Focolare president Maria Voce called for new commitment and effort in favour of peace. “We have to do more,” she said, to move the top politicians, the weapons trade networks and the chief strategists who – as we are beginning to see – can start off from the bottom with the mobilisation of civil society.” Maria Voce also called on the members of the Movement “to join in more with others” with others who are moving in this direction, to promote actions that unmask the causes of war and of the tragedies that afflict so many parts of the earth, with the goal of remedying them, “putting our own forces into play, our willingness and resources.” One event titled Culture of Dialogue, A Way To Build Peace, with a special appearance by the Gen Verde international band, will be held at Castel Gandolfo, Italy, on March 12th. These events will mark the 20th anniversary of the conferment of the UNESCO Prize For Peace Education to Chiara Lubich. The invitation is addressed to ambassadors to the Holy See, civil and Church leaders. Focolare president Maria Voce will give an address, which will be followed by several testimonies regarding dialogue as a way to build peace. On March 14th a Mass will be celebrated by Cardinal João Braz De Aviz at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Divine Love, while other events to remember Chiara are being held throughout the world.
Feb 23, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Feb 22, 2016 | Non categorizzato
The city of Kolhapur hosted the meeting with some 50 thousand members and sympathisers of the Swadhyaya Movement which was founded by the Hindu reformer Pandurang Shastri Athawale and is currently guided by his daughter, Didi. A harmonious blend of ideals and intentions was born from the friendship between Didi and Chiara Lubich that grew over the years and continued with the election of Maria Voce Focolare president. Following the meetings between the women who succeeded the founders of those two movements, Maria Voce, Jesús Morán and the delegation from the Movement in Italy were invited to take part in the closing ceremony of a pilgrimage with some ten thousand couples from the Swadhyay Parivar Movement. The couples, who have been involved in the Hindu renewal movement, spent a week in contact with other families from the Kolhapur region sharing with them the ideals and spiritual life of their movement and paying a visit to the important temple of that region. At the ceremony, which was held on a large plaza in the centre of the city, Didi Talwalkar told everyone about her friendship with Chiara Lubich, presenting Chiara as a Catholic leader and foundress of the Focolare Movement. Following a projection of photos showing the deep relationship between the two women, Maria Voce was asked to offer a greeting and the blessing of Chiara in the spirit of dialogue and shared membership in one human family as is written in the holy books of Hinduism like the vasudhavaiva kutumbakan. It was a very intense spiritual and emotional moment which strengthened the bond between the leaders of the two movements. The journey of these years has been a new experience of dialogue among the different relgions of India and Christians in the light of the spirituality of unity. It has been an experience of deep brotherhood at a living, but also intellectual level with valuable social projects. It continues to open paths of dialogue and knowledge of each other’s faith, in the light of the charism of Chiara Lubich, seen as a woman who knew how to read the signs of the times and who knew how to offer the world a spirit that could join everyone in a journey towards the Truth. The dialogue with Maria Voce and Jesús Morán during the February 13th telephone link-up ended with a question: “In the vast Hindu world where Christians are barely 2% of a population that exstends beyond one billion, what kind of impression does that leave you with? The Focolare president answered: “[It leaves me with the impression] of a small but alive Church, very alive.” “India is a large gift,” the co-president added. “They are very in favour of pluralism, and live it in an inclusive manner. They make space for each person to express their faith explicitly. This is a gift for the West, which lives pluralism in an almost excluding manner. Another thing is silence. Silence is necessary for every type of dialogue. Without interior and interpersonal silence, dialogue doesn’t have stand a chance.” Maria Voce concluded: “And this silence expresses the religious soul of the Indian people. As they said themselves: the gift that they can give the West is to make it rediscover the sense of God, sensing, feeling God.” See also: In India: a dialogue of hearts and minds
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Feb 21, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“The lines of John’s Gospel converge in the sentence which for quite some time has had deep and infinite meaning for me: ‘. . . may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me’ (see Jn 17:21). This is how we are to live. [. . .] the Unity of the Church, the unity of those that find themselves beyond the confines of our Roman Catholic Church, the unity amongst all those who acknowledge faith in the one God, the Living One, and therefore with Jews and Muslims. That unity between Church and society in which the one does not find itself beside the other in a parallel sense or in an oppositional way, but Church and society enter into a reciprocal relationship, highlighting the fact that the unity which God gives is the leaven of society, the leaven that makes man free. It is the unity that makes us truly free, because we can only be ourselves in the fullest sense only where God has the right to be God in the fullest sense and therefore can give us everything He wishes to give us. And He doesn’t wish to give us anything less than His own interior mystery: Trinitarian unity. [. . .] But this is not a mere programme, because you never get very far with programmes. It must above all become life [. . .] I also have to begin to live this unity. And for this reason I trust in the fact that all of you, dear brothers and sisters, will help me, and that we can do this together, in reciprocity.” Bishop Klaus Hemmerle Source: W. Hagemann, Klaus Hemmerle innamorato della Parola di Dio, (Rome: Città Nuova, Rome, 2013) p. 337-338.
![Unity, the leaven of society]()
Feb 20, 2016 | Non categorizzato
In El Espinal, a town in the province of Salta, Northern Argentina, 35 young people aged 18 to 30 from Argentina and Paraguay spent time together from 3 to 11 January, for a low-cost holiday but of “elevated levels of unity,” as they called it. In fact, also the Pastoral for Tourism –Programme for the Development of Solidal Tourism of that region also signed up for this project. This concerned firstly, living with the community and youth of the place, sharing their work in the tobacco fields with the beehive breeders and weavers, and also the typical difficulties of daily living in the countryside: cold water, lack of electricity, the mud that seems to seep through everywhere… The first point was: leaving behind commodities and prejudice. The Golden Rule “Do to others what you would like others to do to you” expressed in a nutshell what the youth of the Focolare wanted to fulfill in that community. But how were they supposed to accomplish it? It was first of all through an infinity of simple acts of love, and then with a cinema forum, meetings, an excursion, moments of relaxation, eating, dancing and singing together.… But the message was conveyed also through theatre plays that showed how El Espinal would be if everyone lived this simple rule. And who knows why this was so – perhaps for that reality “give and you shall be given” which always comes true – a competition of love triggered, where all gave their best. Maga recounts: “We will never forget how Pilar, a weaver, brought the best set of cutlery she had, to offer us a savoury soup, not to mention the ladies who set their chores aside to come and bake bread with us, and the enthusiasm of the boys and girls who fried doughnuts until late t night to make us feel at home. Then there were those who hosted us in their homes, giving us all they had to make us comfortable. There were so many new faces: and in each was Jesus who came towards us every time.” But the so-called holiday also had another objective, and this was to engage in a project to develop the Tourism Pastoral, which consisted in helping the population to see the touristic potential of their town. This was the main aim behind the organisation of activities that could later be transformed into concrete proposals for future visitors: trekking along the river, horseback riding, tractor excursions, and sight-seeing in the enchanting and hidden places of El Espinal. 
Among the breathtaking landscapes, sudden climate changes, the sun, animals and insects – at times not valued – everyone felt they could “feel God’s presence and the embrace of his creation” and also the relationships established among the youth, which were really enriching. In short, they spent a different type of holiday in the beautiful province of Salta, while adhering to Pope Francis’ invitation to live the Gospel in the outskirts. Before returning to their cities, they expressed their impressions: “I learnt a lot of things: to be happy with the little we have and not to complain, and live the golden rule. I felt loved and welcomed. All has left a deep mark in me. It was the best way to start the year. Thanks to you all, I have come closer to God.” Other impressions: “We shall leave with our hearts full of stories, experiences, their values, life, light and joy. I again discovered that if we live together for the others, everything else will come as an extra enrichment.” But also the local youth expressed themselves: “You are the best friends Jesus has given me.” “You have filled us with smiles, joy and peace.” Dominga wrote a prayer which she shared with us: “Thank you Jesus for being here and for giving me so many brothers as a gift. I discovered You in each one of them. Lord, teach us to dream big, and of beautiful things that expand our hearts.”
Feb 19, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Feb 19, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Feb 19, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Live streaming: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/feb-2013-celebration
Fifty years ago, on February 22, 1966, a group of five men and women focolarini arrived in Manila. They were sent by Chiara Lubich in response to the request of Cardinal Rufino Santos, then Archbishop of Manila. Guido Mirti, Giovanna Vernuccio, Silvio Daneo, Ednara Tabosa and Magdalena Brandao were the first protagonists in the adventure of the Focolare in Asia. From Manila, they travelled to Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Pakistan, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam … as far as Australia. The Focolare Movement spread widely throughout Asia fostering in all those who came into contact with it the spirit of unity that is its characteristic, in spite of the enormous diversity of cultures, religions and languages present in the region. “In 2016, we are planning a series of events to thank God for these fifty years of abundant graces, fruit of the meeting of the charism of unity,” write Ding Dalisay and Carlo Maria Gentile, from the Philippines. “On February 20 and 21, the whole family of Chiara present in this part of the world will gather together in Mariapolis Peace, in Tagaytay (Philippines). The first day will be ‘a homecoming’, back to our family; while on the second day, there will be a feast of thanksgiving, with artistic and cultural presentations, looking back at the story of these fifty years, to encourage us to go on, with new fervor, and continue offering our contribution towards the unity of the human family. On that occasion we will present the centers that have come up in the ‘little city’ Mariapolis Peace, at the service of the Movement throughout Asia: the School of the Oriental Religions (SOR), the Mariapolis Center, the Schools for the youth, the Centre for Priests, the House of the Seminarians, the Centers for Men Religious and for Women Religious, and the Bukas Palad and Pag-asa Social Centers. Several delegations are expected, from Korea, Japan, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, India, Pakistan and Australia. Among the participants will be some among the first members of the Movement in the Philippines who have now permanently moved to the USA, thereby enriching the Focolare community in that country. The guests of honor will be the protagonists of those first times of the Focolare in Asia, who are now residing in Italy, Guatemala and Malta.” “On March 14, death anniversary of Chiara Lubich (January 22, 1920 – March 14, 2008),” continue Ding and Carlo Maria, “a Symposium will be held in Manila, on the theme: Charism of unity, a timeless legacy. This is especially intended for ecclesiastical and civil personalities so that together we may be able to reflect on the contribution that the charism of Chiara Lubich has given to the life of individuals, to communities, to the Church and society.” “In the various Mariapolis that will take place in the course of the year in the Philippines (in Davao, Cebu and Manila), they explain, one whole day will be dedicated to giving as many people as possible the opportunity to know the vitality that the spirituality of unity has brought to Asia in the fifty years of its presence here.” “Asia is also home to the great religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam … For this reason, in 2017, in Thailand,” they conclude, “the 50th anniversary of the Focolare Movement will feature an interreligious event: it will be an invitation to all those who wish to join us in this walk towards the unity of the human family.”
Feb 18, 2016 | Non categorizzato
© CSC Audiovisivi – All rights reserved
© CSC Audiovisivi – All rights reserved
© CSC Audiovisivi – All rights reserved
© CSC Audiovisivi – All rights reserved
Feb 17, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Photo © Donald Dsouza
CSC Audiovisivi – All rights reserved
Feb 17, 2016 | Non categorizzato
There was overwhelming agreement amongst the 400 youth workers who attended the conference, that they had chosen their profession because of love and not because of the career. Some of the topics discussed included: accompanying adolescents; role of the teacher; educating to do what is difficult; the community as educator. Vince and Make are from Melbourne, Australia. “I’m originally from Futuna – one more step and you fall off the globe!” Make joked. “When I went to visit a small community on the Island of Kiribati, the children were surprised by the presence of a stranger, and then suprised by the fact that I played games with them. I ran for two hours even though I’m no longer the right age that. We didn’t speak the same language, but a special relationship was created between us. 
What is their educational model? They call it a person-relationship model in which one is able to love and be loved. It is rooted in the thought of Chiara Lubich. Her influence on the field of education is being developed by a group of researchers in the area of pedagogy and by the Abba School and the Sophia University Institute whose graduates were among the presenters. There were ample offerings for every age group, covering topics such as global education; types of group animators; group dynamics; conflict resolution; investigations on faith and reason; lifestyle and the environment; gender; addiction and mass media. Several interactive activities explored expressing emotions through dance; theatre; puppetting; shaping balloons; arts and crafts; video-making; photography and using shapes and images. 
It was all a concrete opportunity to “put head, heart and hands to work,” to experience it and then live it along with the children. This educational method is particularly dear to the heart of Pope Francis (see World Congress on Education, Rome, Italy, November 2015). During his presentation, Msgr Vincenzo Zani, Secretary of the Congregation for Catholic Education offered Pope Francis’s vision for education to all the formators at Castel Gandolfo from February 5-10, 2015. 
Today’s educators must be master risk-takers, brave explorers, humble builders of relationships – never by themselves but as members of the community in which they operate. Today’s educators experience failures, but never give up, so that they can teach others to never give up. Above all an educator should strive to be authentic, a credible witness. Teachers often find themselves involved with children living through difficult situations. These children suffer because of family instability or violence . . . but at least there is one person in their lives who plants some seeds of hope. It is always possible to begin again, helping them to activate what in the technical jargon is termed resiliance, drawing on one’s own resources to face difficulties, to adapt and to overcome. “There is a need to acquire more skills,” explained Argentinian psychologist Arturo Clariá “also from the fields of sociology and psychology, coming up with strategies for working together, so that we can be responsible companions for our young charges, with our gaze always fixed on the transcendent. In contrast to educators from across the world who are immersed in the problems of the current cultures, in a globalised world that has led to the loss of meaning and self-esteem, and to problems in fulfilling the plan for one’s life. At times you don’t know what to do. How are we to face such a fluid society? The educator is not the holder of knowledge, but the director of an orchestra in which each player can play his or her instrument, and the educator must draw out the harmony from each musician.” This is an educational approach that moves beyond enclosed spaces and reaches the level of feelings, social skills and values: “This is how a culture of brotherhood and peace will be created.” Photo gallery: https://goo.gl/photos/BjmCh1FPnXaxyBQh8 Facebook: In Cammino Educarsi per Educare
Feb 16, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Thousands of university students have denounced the rampaging corruption in the country’s main state university, the Università Nazionale of Asunción (UNA). A long austere spring ended with chain resignations of the academic authorities, and negotiations on the reforms of a statute drafted during the dictatorship. The university youth surprised everyone with their seriousness and organisation. In the month in which the campus was occupied, they created a true and proper “alternative State.” There were watch shifts at the doors, inspection of bags and car boots to prevent the introduction of alcoholic beverages, efficient orders for food and essential services, and oganisation of a supplementary school calendar, with the help of professors and graduating students. And now the schedule of exams has been adjusted so that no one would lose the semester. They furthermore demonstrated intelligence in not allowing themselves to be exploited by anybody. Their reference point and model was Pope Francis who had met thousands of young people in his visit to Paraguay. His appeal to “raise a din and then organise it,” was fully heeded. Among the leaders of the pacific revolt was #UNAnotecalles (“UNA speak up”), the youth of the Focolare. Alejandra and Cecilia, Medicine and Engineering students, respectively, said: “It all started with a sit-in before the Rector’s building, to demonstrate our indignation with regard to the latest reports of corruption. Every day there was a peaceful demonstration during which the mike was passed around to the students, professors and officers. Then came a permanent wake around the building, with a strike of the students to demand the resignation of the Rector and his assistants. The support of the people who provided food and other forms of aid, gave us the strength not to give up our battle, and made us see that it was a struggle for everyone’s good. After 40 days the Rector resigned along with five officers and another 38 were indicted, followed by the resignation of all the faculty deans. What was fundamental for us was to live this phase with all the Gen studying in the UNA university, and also with the others who expressed their support in various ways. Certain of Jesus’s promise to be among us if we unite in His name, we did our best to make it a reality. He was our guiding light in defending the evangelical values of love, truth and justice, and overcoming the many difficult moments. At times it was not easy to control the crowd that seemed to be overwhelmed by emotions. In those instants, when the right thing to do was not clear, we tried to decide together how to act and what decision to make.
Leticia (left)
Feb 15, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
The Airport of Havana, Cuba, hosted the first meeting in history between the Bishop of Rome and the Patriarch of Moscow, on February 12, 2016. It was a fraternal encounter “between bishops’ that “gave an opportunity to listen and understand each other’s positions” said Patriarch Kirill at the conclusion of the meeting. Among the common concerns were the desire for peace and the defence of persecuted Christians around the world. “I felt the consolation of the Holy Spirit in this dialogue,” Pope Francis remarked, with the prospect of “a series of initiatives” to be carried forward together. “We are not competitors but brothers, and this concept must guide all our mutual actions as well as those directed to the outside world,” states the Joint Declaration that was signed by the Pope and the Patriarch. The declaration calls for common efforts between Roman Catholic and Orthodox Christians, and overcoming the historic divergences we have inherited, responding together to the challenges of today’s world. Christians are now victims of persecutions and violence in Syria, Iraq and other Middle East countries. Other challenges include the fight against terrorism, interreligious dialogue, European integration and respect for religious identities. The document also mentions social and ethical topics, with “pastoral” concern, as Pope Francis stressed while speaking with journalists on the flight between Cuba and Mexico: poverty, the breakdown of the family, the right to life (abortion, euthanasia and assisted reproduction), young people and peace in Ukraine. Much of the future of humanity will depend on our capacity to give shared witness to the Spirit of truth in these difficult times,” the document goes on to say. “Here in Moscow there is also the feeling that this was an important and historic meeting” writes focolarina Anna Gloria from the focolare in Moscow. The mass media are talking about it a lot. Bishop Paolo Pezzi invited everyone to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to pray for unity. It was quite beautiful. There were Catholics and Orthodox from several movements and communities. Everyone feels that an important step towards unity has been taken.” Despite recent tensions between Moscow and Rome, the Russian Orthodox Church has a long history of seeking the reconciliation of the divided Christian churches. Father Hyacinthe Destivelle said so during an interview with the Vatican Radio. He is in charge of relations with the Slavic Orthodox Churches at the Pontifical Council for Christian Unity and was in Cuba for the meeting. Father Destivelle also explained that “the Russian Orthodox Church is fifth in the traditional order of authority among the 14 autocephalous Orthodox Churches. First position belongs to the Patriarchate of Constantinople, with a primacy of honour. It has a special relationship with the Holy See.” “The significance of the meeting between Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill can also be seen in light of history with the Russian Orthodox Church,” where it “can act as a bridge between East and West.” Father Destivelle also gave other examples of how the Russian Orthodox Church was an active pioneer in ecumenical relations. It was the first Church to send observers during the Second Vatican Council. During their private meeting, Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill also discussed the upcoming Pan-Orthodox Council scheduled for June 2016 in Crete. It will ”gather all the Orthodox churches for an Orthodox Synod,” Dr. Dimitrios Keramidas recently explained at an ecumenical school of the Focolare Movement, “this is not an event that is inserted into ecclesial life, but rather the official manifestation of the communional essence of the Church, the on-going and uninterrupted journey of the People of God.” It is a journey towards unity.
Feb 15, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
“When I left my home for the bank I was working at 21 years ago, I certainly wasn’t thinking that I wouldn’t return home that night. A strong headache forced my colleagues to take me to hospital. I was 49 years old with a well-established professional career, an upcoming promotion, a beautiful family with three daughters between 14 and 18. Suddenly and unexpectedly I found myself in a wheelchair that I was unable to control because, along with the use of my legs, I had also lost the use of my arms. I had been turned into nothing: I needed help eating, bathing and dressing. . . I was totally dependent on others. I was feeling desperate and anxious, feelings that I tried to reject because I knew they weren’t the solution. From when I embraced the spirituality of the Focolare, I have learned to be totally disposed to God’s will, and even though I didn’t understand the reason for this nightmare, my wife and I wanted to believe that it too was God’s love for me, for us. My daughters also shared in our decision and, right from the first days I found strength and patience that I never dreamed of finding. In a few months I regained the use of my legs and, with great effort and the support of a colleague who accompanied me was able to go back to work for another 7 years. Then I just couldn’t do it anymore.” 
Already then, I wasn’t able to walk because of my handicap, if not just for short distances. I could no longer drive the car, take a shower alone, button my clothing, cut the food on my plate, turn on the coffee machine or embrace my wife and children. I couldn’t do any of those things that required the use of two hands. At times the fear was even bitterer. Fear of not being able go on living as a couple, fear of the solitude, of my fragility in the face of different situations, fear of the doubt about whether I would be able to continue in my role as father, and so on. Now, with much effort I continue with physiotherapy, even though I know that healing isn’t on the landscape. At least it slows the process of debilitation. During these 21 years God has never failed to accompany me with refined faithfulness, delicateness and tenderness that only He knows how to give. Pina and I have learned to let ourselves me carried by Him, to let ourselves be surprised by His Love. And when everything seemed to crumble, or became unstable, deep in our heart we understood that this partaking – in some way – in the mystery of Jesus on the Cross, was a privilege for us. Like Him, we try to overcome the pain by loving everyone around us, experiencing what could be called a ‘divine alchemy’ wherein suffering is like a talent to be turned into love. God took me/us by the hand and, little by little revealing his plan for us, led us into deep intimacy with Him among us, making us understand the mystery of suffering – in the light. And what could be considered a limit has been transformed into richness, what could have stopped us has been turned into a race. Not even an invasive handicap can take away the possibility of being a tool in God’s hands for our neighbor.” Giulio Ciarrocchi
Feb 14, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“How will we celebrate St. Valentines? We don’t know yet. Any occasion is fine for surprising the other with something nice, hiding last-minute gifts.” Iris is a 26 year-old Brazilian. She is in Italy on an international cooperative project. She is engaged to Antonello, an Economics graduate, waiting for a job that is more in tune with his academic background. He works shifts at a call centre. When they first met, Iris was a bit reluctant about beginning a new relationship, because she had been previously disappointed by love. But Antonello managed to get her cell phone number and with his fantastic text messages, finally convinced her to give it another try. “The more we met, the more I realised I was in love,” Iris admits, “and we began to make plans.” “What kind of plans?” we asked. “First of all,” says Antonello, “I wanted to introduce her to my parents. Then we travelled to Brazil to meet her parents. Meanwhile, we were discovering each other’s cultures and different religious beliefs. Iris is deeply Catholic. I have a more humanistic view of things. But even if we come from different paths, we’re both convinced of the beauty of marriage, and that it is a profoundly human and sacred act.” Iris recounts: “That exchange – which for me, accustomed to certainties that were too often taken for granted – wasn’t easy. But it helped us to realise how strong our love was, a love that made us grow as human beings: I became more of a woman, and Antonello more of a man. It also led us to our decision that we would get married when we were financially independent.” Their certainty is disarming, considering the many couples around them whose relationships have failed, whose great love has vanished into thin air. Just the same, they want to take the big step into marriage because – as they say – “We’re sure of our love. It’s not merely a romantic dinner or a chocolate Valentine heart. “Love,” Iris explains, “is falling in love with the other’s soul. It’s knowing how to put aside one’s own thinking, to make room for the other’s thinking, and to show that for you, he matters more for what he is than for what you would like him to be.” Everything seems easy when you’re falling in love, but like all the other the seasons of life, it too fades away. The experts say that it lasts for a year or so; then you find yourself back on the ground. “We know it’s not always going to be this passionate,” says Antonello, “that there will be dark moments. . . In fact, we enrolled in a course for engaged couples, so that we can share our experience with other people like us. I know that we’ll also talk about the difficulties there will be, about the crisis that will come. And they’ve already told us that they’ll explain to us how to overcome that: by seeing each other new every day, and always beginning again. Regarding beginning again . . . that’s another opportunity that every couple needs, along with ongoing dialogue, seeing happiness not as a personal right, but as something to be given, healthy detachment from one’s original family, communicating with other couples, the ability to forgive, gratuitousness and tenderness . . . These are some of the topics that will be covered, including sexuality and procreation that are commonly presented in courses for engaged couples. It will be the same for this one organised by the Focolare Movement’s New Families, which will take place on April 8-10, 2016 in Loppiano, Italy. Besides, these courses are required for couples who plan to marry in the Catholic Church. So, why not take advantage of them?” For more information
Feb 13, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“The Gospel isn’t just a collection of words. It’s also a list of facts. It’s life. Jesus not only preached, he healed the sick, comforted the afflicted, raised the dead and fed the hungry. He performed the Works of Mercy because He loved. “I have compassion for these people,” He exclaimed upon seeing the hungry throngs, and He multiplied bread to satisfy their hunger. Bread takes on a sacred value in the Redemption. Jesus inserts the greatest mystery into bread, and He made the Eucharistic Banquet the core of the life of the Church community, forever uniting body and spirit, just as He had united humanity and divinity in Himself. Therefore, you love God, the Father, when you feed the hungry. All those who can offer nourishment to the undernourished and hungry and don’t do so, are murderers according to the Fathers of the Church; indeed, they’re god-killers. They cause Christ to die. From the perspective of the Gospel all those who, during the war years, forced condemned prisoners to starve to death, repeated the crucifixion. It was like murdering God. The hordes of the deported – in snow or under blazing sun, in armored cars, or in isolated ships whose monotony was only interrupted by the falling of the hungry – crossed the line of practical atheism even when it was perpetrated in the name of God. That is why Saint Vincent de Paul went aboard the galleys of very Christian kings, where the galley slaves were dropping dead from exhaustion. A Work of Mercy is not the mere distribution of food or money. It reconstitutes justice. “The Works of Mercy accomplish nothing without love,” Saint Augustine says. “If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere” (1 Cor 13:3), Saint Paul says to those Christians who shared the Bread of Angels but not that of men. The cold and reserved woman who gives Christmas to the poor but never opens her soul to them, performs nothing more than a bureaucratic duty: Christ is not pleased. Social welfare does little or nothing at all to produce the effects of a religious life, if those who carry it out don’t bring that divine nourishment of the Holy Spirit, which is love. No one is moved by or grateful to the faucet for the water it provides, or by the light bulb for the light it provides, Ozanam remarks. “Man does not live on bread alone,” because he is soul as well as stomach. A Work of Mercy is a moral and material duty. By feeding the hungry, I feed me because his hunger is both mine and that of the whole social body of which I am an organic part. You can’t dump grain into the ocean when in another part of the world there is someone dying of hunger. “We, though many, are one body throughout the world:” and you cannot injure one body part to the advantage of another. If you do, you’ll pay for it with revolutions, disorder and all the epidemics that are found on this side of Heaven, and with hell on the other side. It has been said that the earth is dying, that the world’s resources are diminishing and the wars increasing precisely because of hunger. Some would like to solve the problem with war and birth control, doing away with human life. But it’s not resources that are lacking; what’s lacking is love – and the intelligence – for making it circulate. Circulation is life. The stagnation brought about by accumulation is a source of hate, revolution and war. It’s death. “If your enemy is hungry, feed him, if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head” (Rm 12:20). The Works of Mercy perform the miracle of making the love circulate by making the bread circulate. It’s a miracle that transforms bread into a sort of social sacrament, in which you begin from love, God, and you nourish the body along with the soul. (From:Igino Giordani, Il fratello (Rome: Città Nuova, 2011) p.63-67.
Feb 12, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Guido Mirti (Cengia)
Film director, Cinzia Panero, with some of the actors.
Feb 11, 2016 | Non categorizzato
“OnCity: Networks of light to inhabit the planet” is the title of a workshop on international citizenship that will take place on April 1-3, 2016 at Castel Gandolfo Conference Centre, Italy. The conference is organised by the New Humanity Movement, Youth for a United World and the United World Project which are all agencies of the Focolare Movement that are engaged in promoting brotherhood among generations, individuals, groups and peoples. We are challenged by current events: bombings, terrorism, new forms of poverty and marginalisation and a piecemeal world war. Cities are in trouble, suffering from contradictions that everyone can see. But there are also positive experiences which show that it is possible to work, believe and hope for more liveable and fraternal cities. The three-day workshop will examine changes taking place in today’s cities and present a lifestyle of dialogue. For information and reservations: oncity2016.net info@oncity2016.net 06/94792170 Download brochure: pdf ONCITY2016- reti di luci per abitare il pianeta (14.05 MB)
Feb 11, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide, Senza categoria
“I was still a child,” Alfonso from the class of 1945 recounts, “when my father was unjustly imprisoned. My mother and I would visit him in prison and, at such a tender age I realised how lonely the inmates were: people without hope or future – and without dignity. So, I promised myself that one day I would do something for them.” Alfonso had to wait for that chance. He enrolled in a course on volunteering and obtained permission to make visits to Rebibbia Prison, which currently has 1,700 inmates. They are serving time for the most varied crimes: drug dealing, sex abuse, mafia activity, extortion, murder, and more. Alfonso was aware that his efforts would be limited by the distrust of the inmates who belived they had lost any chance at redemption. In fact, many of them refused to let him approach. But he never gave up because he was convinced they were the image of the God he had chosen when he became a focolarino. Finally, one inmate named Giorgio who was serving time for a kidnapping that ended in tragedy, asked Alfonso to go to his mother, to embrace her and ask her to forgive him. Alfonso went and found the woman close to the end of her life. This totally unexpected, but long-awaited gesture, reconciled her to her son and the past. A few days later, she died peacefully. Alfonso stood by her son until his release from prison. He also helped Giorgio find temporary employment that restored his sense of dignity, enabling him to contribute to the support of the family. 
Through his visits with inmates, Alfonso has come to realise the importance of that fragile thread that connects them to the outside world. This is why he works so hard at keeping the relationship with families alive – especially with wives – and supporting families that find themselves in dire straits because of their relative’s imprisonment. This all takes time, people, energy and money. Alfonso never gave up. He began a project called “Always A Person” to show that prison does not take away a person’s human dignity, especially because God’s love for each one of us never diminishes. With 30 other volunteers – parents, professionals and ex-inmates – he has followed up with the families of 160 inmates, offering moral, economic and food support. The numbers grow each day. The spirit of the group is that of a focolare: “being family” for each inmate, being close to him and supporting him – never judging anyone’s past. In prison, words like trust and brotherhood take on deep meaning – especially mercy, an attitude that the volunteers say “acts on the person like a spring that helps them to get up again every time they’re tempted to let themselves go.” That’s how it was for Roberto who, after 8 years of incarceration and not finding any work, became homeless. Thanks to the “Always A Person” project he was accepted into a small welcome centre where he can practice his profession as a cook. There is also Francesco who had been a truck driver, but after 4 years in prison was not able to find a job because people didn’t trust him. Now, he belongs to the team of volunteers that prepares and delivers the packages for prisoners’ families. There are more stories like this one that are recounted in the books: “Ero carcerato…” and “Carcere e dintorni” written by Alfonso Di Nicola, and published by Città Nuova.
Feb 10, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
“Mexico City seems to be different today. There is a wave of hope, new life, and joy. The streets, phone booths, subways, and posters of the big avenues of the city, all announce the arrival of the Pilgrim from Rome, who wants, “like any other son, to come close to the Mother,” the beloved “Vírgin of Guadalupe”, Mother of all the Mexicans, Patron of the American continent, and according to many historians, the true author of unity of the Aztec nation. “I shall go to Our Lady like a pilgrim of mercy and peace. I am going to seek the Mexican people, who can give me something… I seek the deep faith you have, and I want to be contaminated with that richness of faith…,” Pope Francis said in the video-message sent to the Mexican people. And Mexico is preparing not only to receive him materially, but especially with the desire to receive with open hearts, the message of the “Bishop of Rome.” It is a message of hope, mercy, reconcilement, peace and fraternity. One feels a new attitude towards this pastoral visit. Of course there will be joy, emotion, and festivity, but also the desire to remain silent, listen and live it in depth. The Pope is coming in a particularly difficult time for our country, struck by violence, poverty and corruption, but in the messages he already sent to the Mexican people, Francis also conveyed his desire to come as “any man” and will involve every Mexican to help them bring out the best of themselves. In reading between the lines, we could almost say that his presence among us, if we manage to interpret and live it properly, can become a magnet for the many abilities our people possess, so as to radically swerve our path towards a more fraternal Mexico. The stages of the journey will not leave anyone out: Mexico City, Ecatepec, Chiapas, Morelia, and Ciudad Juárez. The pope will travel thousands of kilometres from the north to the south of the country. It will be a journey that will touch the neuralgic centres of conflicts, suffering, and at times even tragedies which Mexico is suffering, from the big city with its anonymity and social injustice, to the marginalised indigenous world, narcotraffick with all its violence, and the issue of border immigrants north of the country. The chosen itinerary and the activities to be held will launch a clear message: the Pope will come as a missionary of mercy and peace, especially for the most needy, and wants to share the wounds of this nation. Together with all the members of the Focolare Movement in the country, we have prepared ourselves by studying the teachings of Francis in depth, particularly the themes he will face in his visit: the youth, family, immigration, employment, and civilization of the aborigines. We want to receive his message, meet him and listen to him wherever he goes, even in the streets, and in the many routes his hoodless car will take. Moreover, we were called by the Mexican Episcopal Conference to collaborate, together with other ecclesiastical movements, in the visit’s logistics services especially in Mexico City. Welcome to Mexico, Pope Francis. With you we want to be missionaries of mercy and peace!.” From our news correspondents, Anabel Abascal and Raffaele Massolin Video-messaggio to the Mexican people: http://youtu.be/o8Y9VMFmOX0 Also consult: http://www.news.va/es/news/el-papa-a-los-mexicanos-voy-a-buscar-a-la-riquez-2 Official site: http://papafranciscoenmexico.org/
Feb 9, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
Coming down from the bus we immediately spot ““The Voice School of English”, situated in Pembroke, a few metres away the sea. The modern and spacious Malta National Sports School houses the Voice during the summer months. Andy, who co-ordinates the students’ visit to Malta, greets us with a big smile. She does not only know all the students by name, as actually all the teachers do, but she makes it a point to see that they receive the care and attention needed, while she works very closely even with the host families to ensure the comfort and well-being of each student. Together with Andy there is Vivienne, who has been working at The Voice since its very beginning 23 years ago; Maria, who after a long career in the Ministry of Education now offers her expertise as head of school, and Marilyn, who joined the school staff two years ago as director of studies. With her impressive record as teacher of English, Marilyn gives her precious contribution on pedagogical level; she follows very closely the academic progress of the students and she mentors the teaching staff to ensure support and progress in the teaching of English as a foreign language. The school prides itself with a team of professional and dedicated teachers. “The Voice” was founded in 1992 by a group of young people who decided to become personally involved in the Economy of Communion project launched by Chiara Lubich. Some of these young people are now the older generation who host students. Vivienne, who has been head of school for years and who still helps with its administration, looks back and relates: “Prior to the Voice I started a small business but the difficulties and problems I had to face made me decide to quit and promise that I would never attempt such a feat again. When I was roped in to help with the Voice, I discovered an economic activity motivated by different aspirations. This made me change my mind and till the present day I contribute wholeheartedly to make this project survive”. 
And notwithstanding difficulties and challenges the Voice is still offering its service to foreign students. Presently there are 47 English Language Schools in Malta and some of them cater for thousands of students, so one may wonder how such a small enterprise as the Voice still manages to keep going. Marilyn explains, “We aim at giving individual attention to each student, so the number of students in each class hardly ever exceeds 6; occasionally there is maximum of 8 students. Of course, this means that we have to employ more teachers! The school also offers one-to-one programmes that satisfy the student’s individual needs”. In this way, the teacher-student relationship becomes the pedagogical method, the key to linguistic progress, especially where the development of oral communication skills are concerned. The Voice experience continues with the host families, where students are given the opportunity not only to practise their English, but also to discover the Maltese culture and share the warm family atmosphere. Building relationships is a priority, explains Vivienne, a prerogative which gives the school its identity. “Here no student is a number; they are friends with whom we share all that we can, and even they share a lot with us”. This becomes even more evident during the Friday Certificate Award Ceremony when students who have finished the course wave good-bye to the rest of “community”, a term used by the students themselves. The Director of Studies has a word full of warmth and encouragement for each departing student, while the students’ faces reflect the pride of their achievement. Students interviewed speak of the family atmosphere created at the school. Karina says “I have found friends and very friendly teachers who really wish me well”, while Raffaella adds, “I feel encouraged to look for work when I go back home by the fact that my teacher at the Voice was younger than I; l would like to give my best, just like her”. In conformity with its values and its commitment towards the Economy of Communion, the Voice opts to employ and train new young members to join its team. Moreover, an enterprise founded by young people cannot ignore the importance of offering work opportunities to youth. Claire, one of these young members of the staff, has been employed to guide and animate the afternoon leisure activities, because at the Voice it is not only English lessons that count but the whole shared experience, an opportunity to enhance the student’s personal development. In addition, Malta is a cultural and historical jewel…….and between a visit to the Pre-historic temples and the splendid Blue Grotto, one is often allowed enough time for a dip in the crystal clear water. Next time it might be the island of Comino and the Blue Lagoon, followed by a visit to the sister island of Gozo with its historical Citadel, or a visit to Valletta, the capital city where students can enjoy one of the most popular tourist attractions: an audio-visual show that tells all about the history and culture of the Maltese Islands. As days pass and one group “selfie” follows another, the school community changes; new arrivals are greeted with joy and there are hearty farewells for those who depart. At times the community circle widens because relatives holidaying in Malta join the school during its leisure activities. And more often than not, conversations at the beach tend to become serious talk on topics, such as the concept of the Economy of Communion that motivates the Voice, or on ideas about personal projects, or on issues that accompany one’s personal growth and professional development. Addresses and WhatsApp contacts are frequently exchanged……friendship does not end with the English course! Lately, new members who believe in the philosophy of the Economy of Communion have been invited by the Voice to join its group of directors; among them there is John, a consultant in Human Resources and Management, who specializes in the area of Tourism. The Voice looks forward to new developments! by Anouk Grevin Source: Economy of Communion Download brochure See the video: https://vimeo.com/135970956
Feb 8, 2016 | Focolare Worldwide
«I had been unjustly accused before the entire parish council. My answer was: silence, tears. After three days there was a phone call from that person, broken with emotion: “Will you forgive me?” and the answer, “I have already forgiven!!! Then a thought came to mind: it was not enough to forgive, but I could do more. So I invited that person to dinner, and a friendship was born, which will never be broken.» This is the story of Berenice, mother of three children, and a catechist for over 20 years, and then a minister of the Word in the five communities that make up the parish of Immaculata Conceção, in one of the peripheral districts of the immense city of Sao Paolo. These were flash backs of the many experiences recounted during the two “Schools of Communion” of the Parish Movement – branch of the Focolare Movement in the local Church – held from 22 to 24 January in the Ginetta Mariapolis, in Vargem Grande Paulista (SP) and from 30 to 31 January in the Mariapolis (Igarassu-Recife). The encounters focused on: Unity, the specific charism of the Focolare, with a particular stress on Mercy in this Holy Year. These were attended by 300 people consisting of the youth, lay adults, religious, seminarians, deacons and priests of 116 parishes in 27 dioceses from 16 Brazilian states. Together they testified to the force of forgiveness and mercy of evangelical love, which make the parish a community of communities, when this force and mercy are lived among the members of the movements.” There were numberless fruits of the Word of God put into practice: in the districts of the outskirts where the laity took charge of finding the facilities to host the growing numbers of the faithful and the youth, who dedicated themselves to the various pastoral activities in the prisons or parish social works where the priority is to listen and pay attention to the person rather than to organization and material aid. Some undertook to initiate small encounters in the parishioners’ homes, bringing the Word of Life to the lives of families that are oftentimes far from the Church as in the case of Maria Hélia from a community of Marechal Deodoro. Bernadete lives in João Pessoa and is a catechist in the parish of Baby Jesus and a member of the archdiocesan team of catechists. She tries to share what she lives with a great openness to dialogue, starting from her family and relatives who belong to the evangelical church and Pentecostal associations. On Christmas Day she managed to involve everyone – including her husband who is not a Church goer – in a sketch of the birth of Jesus. “A spirit of dialogue and unity was established among all of us. We had a real Christmas!” During the conclusive meeting, the commitment declared by all was to become builders of unity within the communities, creating relationships in which, through mutual love, the Risen Christ is present and attracts and transforms everything, irradiating peace and joy. The objective was this: to have an open heart and fulfill “Jesus’ dream” when he prayed to the Father ”that all may be one.”
Feb 7, 2016 | Non categorizzato
(…)“Let among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her” (Jn 8:7). Jesus said this to those who wanted to stone the adulteress. The central idea in Jesus’ commands is always love. This is why he doesn’t want us Christians to condemn anyone. In fact he says, “Do not judge,” and proclaims, “Blessed are the merciful.” Jesus wants mercy. Nevertheless, from what he says one could conclude that there is someone who could throw the first stone: whoever is without sin.
This is certainly not one of us, we are all sinners. But there is a person who is without sin. And we know who she is: the Mother of God. Could Mary, then, “throw a stone” at someone who erred? Did she ever do such a thing when she was on earth?
We know our Mother. We know what Scripture says about her, what Tradition has handed down to us about her, what the People of God have always thought about her. Mary loves everyone. She is merciful She is the advocate of the most unfortunate. It is to her that countless Christians have turned, when they have had the impression that God’s justice was upon them. Mary does not throw stones. Quite the contrary, no one except Jesus spreads love the way she does. Why? Because she is a mother, and mothers only know how to love. It is typical of a mother to love her children as herself, because there’s something of herself in them. … We too can find something of ourselves in others. For we must see Jesus in ourselves and in every neighbour.
What shall we do? With each neighbor, at home, at work, or on the street, with the people we talk; with those we speak to over the phone, or for whom we carry out our daily work – with every person we meet these days, we must think: “I must act as if I were his or her mother,” and act accordingly. Mothers are always serving, Mothers always find excuses for their children. Mothers are always full of hope.
“As if I were his or her mother”, this is thought which must be foremost in our minds these days. This must be our resolution, if we want to be sure not to throw stones: and to be Mary’s presence here on earth for everyone we meet. Chiara Lubich Rocca di Papa, 3rd March 1983 Source: Chiara Lubich Centre
Feb 6, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Card. Giuseppe Betori, Archbishop of Florence traced an important phase of his story, and described him as «A promoter of proactive communion between the various groups and associations,» who «interpreted the hope of Cardinal Benelli and Chiara Lubich» for the creation of the Giorgio La Pira International Students’ Centre in Florence at the turn of the 1970s. In fact, Giorgio Martelli, a native of Pistoia, Tuscany, gave a decisive contribution to the birth of this joint project between the Florentine Archdiocese and the Focolare Movement, which up to today continues its commitment to the «youth from all the nations worldwide, especially the developing countries, fostering fraternal acceptance and promoting dialogue between people of all cultures and creeds.» The story of the La Pira Centre is one of the important stories that has crossed the life of Turnea (the name Chiara Lubich gave him and that described his: Turris Eburnea, Tower of Ivory, taken from the Marian litanies). Born into a working-class family, Turnea was brought up with a simple faith, moral rectitude and thirst for justice. As a young man he was active in the Catholic Action where he received a more solid Christian education. During the war, he and his father were caught twice in a round-up which condemned him to forced labour, from which he managed to escape. After the war he started working in the labour union as a clerk in the contracts and litigations office, and at the same time, took up his studies again and graduated as an industrial surveyor. During the Catholic Action period he met other youth active in Christian movements, among whom were Bruno Venturini, and Vitaliano Bulletti who also became focolarini. He himself commented on that period: «Before me were two aspects of Christian life that were alternatively a more personal aspect of the quest for a relationship with God, and a more social one concerning the need for fraternity among men, and the justice and struggles to reach them. But these were two separate spheres!!» His first meeting with the focolare came about in January 1950 when he first met Graziella De Luca, who had gone to his city to speak to some people about the experience of the newborn Focolare Movement. In the following months he went several times to Rome where he met, besides Chiara, the first focolare men and women. After an internal struggle that lasted a few months, he decided to become one of them, and after leaving his fiancée and family – amid great misunderstandings – he moved to Rome, and joined the first men’s focolare house. Subsequently, he lived in various focolare houses in Italy and Holland . In 1968 Turnea he was appointed by Chiara as the first person to take charge of the newborn branch of the Volunteers of God. At their conventions Turnea encouraged moments of debate on issues and queries regarding the concretisation of the spirituality of unity in daily life. He often repeated Chiara’s affirmations: The Volunteers in our time have to take after the first Christians. For many years he dedicated himself to that Focolare aspect called harmony and environment and which concerned the construction works, the towns, the Mariapolis Centres, art and social works. It was a role he covered with passion, love and devotion also in the numerous trips and visits to various countries. Turnea endowed his efforts, tenacity and love also in many other fields: at the start of the Youth for a United World Movement, and in supporting the Santa Chiara Audiovisual Centre and the international Gen Rosso band. Free from specific assignments from 2008, he continued to give his contribution with advice and ideas. As a priest, he stood by many focolarini, especially those in suffering, and for whom he regularly celebrated the Holy Mass. In 2012 he was struck by a disease that caused a motor disability, which he bore, however, with his proverbial grit and his love for Jesus Forsaken and Abandoned. Regarding the last years, his long-time friend, Bruno Venturini recounted: «He would gather all his strength to try to be active, and was still willing to help. At times, after a difficult day he didn’t have the strength to get up and I would find him at the computer, checking his mail. At the same time he was always committed to accepting from God with serenity, this state of weakness and inactivity. He was never resigned and received all those who came to see him with joy. He spoke with great presence of mind and often with great effort, about all the most various topics one or the other was involved in. He never forgot to express his deep thoughts which showed his interior state, his full adhesion to God’s will: his heavenly thoughts.» On 26 January Turnea concluded his earthly journey. Focolare President Maria Voce wrote: We have «another giant» among the first focolarini. Maria Chiara de Lorenzo
Feb 5, 2016 | Non categorizzato
Invited are all interested advocates of a different way of viewing economy and doing business that is characterized by communion, fraternity and solidarity, especially with the weakest sectors of society. The congress hopes to bring together entrepreneurs, professors, young people and members of civil society with a passion for changing the business world, understanding in depth the challenges facing Asian nations despite the unprecedented economic growth of the past years, due to a continued adherence to the capitalist model and concept of economics – and what the economy of communion can offer to make the changes more meaningful and inclusive. Economists expected to be give their inputs in the congress include members of the international commission – Luigino Bruni (Italy), Anouk Grevin (France), Lorna Gold (Ireland), Teresa Ganzon (Philippines) and Luca Crivelli (Switzerland). Invited as a guest lecturer also is Dr. Annette Pelksman-Balaoing of the University of Rotterdam, Netherlands, to give a perspective on Globalization and how it has affected Asian nations in the past decade. It is expected to draw participants from different nations in Asia, as well as Australia. Live streaming playlist 25-29 May The EOC Pan Asian Congress will also have a celebration of EOC’s 25th anniversary on May 28th, even of the actual anniversary date on the 29th. Go to the EoC Asia web-site Register: More info: eocasia2016@gmail.com
The YouTube links are: For Day 1, 25 May to Day 5, 29 May: Link to the playlist of the whole meeting: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLseXirhCvXpHfSeiIcXBqicR4Hfl4dxuB EoC 25° Anniversary Event – EoC Asian Congress 2016 (9:00PM – 10:00 PM Philippines time) https://youtu.be/pQpqh4REvWc
