The 2012 Genfest was held in Budapest under the banner “Let’s bridge”. It extended an invitation to overcome conflicts, to unite peoples, to link generations. To find unity within oneself. This is the story of one of those 12,000 participants, Martha from Italy, aged just 16 at the time.
As Loppiano was being visited by Pope Francis, Mariapolis Lia in Argentina was celebrating the 50th anniversary.
From the international town of Loppiano, Pope Francis launched an appeal to build together a new civilisation of alliance.
In the midst of many initiatives in the field of social responsibility occurring during the 23rd United World Week (1st – 10th May), organised by the young people of the Focolare, we review the inspiration behind it put to them by Chiara Lubich at the 1985 Genfest.
“By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Gal 5:22)
Those attending the conference at Castel Gandolfo, Italy, who were from 23 different countries, returned home convinced that unity between Christians and Muslims is possible.
George, who has lived in South East Asia for 28 years, between Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia, spent Easter in Saigon. We publish the story he sent us.
Be authentic witnesses to the Resurrection.
In preparation for the October Synod, young people from all over the world give the Pope and bishops a document that expresses their ideas about the Church and what they hope to receive from it.
The testimony of Syrians Jean and Vivian, who have set up a learning centre for handicap children.