Contacts & FAQ

It is not easy to express in words and images our way of life, but if one wishes to know more, there is always the possibility of direct contact, a personal encounter.

Leave this field blank

Focolare Movement

Via di Frascati, 306
Rocca di Papa (RM)
Italy – 00040

Tel. +39 / 06 947 989 |

Frequently asked questions

What about the name “Focolare Movement”?

“Focolare” means “hearth” or “where the family gathers” in the dialect of Trent. It is the name that people in Trent gave to the first community started by Chiara Lubich and her companions. From the very beginning, this lifestyle recalled the warmth of a family. Its new and revolutionary message, inspired by the Gospel, has also been compared to a fire that inflames hearts and enlightens minds.

Who is Chiara Lubich for the Focolare Movement?

Chiara is the founder of the Focolare Movement. She was always its elected President until her death in 2008. She is considered to be one of the great charismatic figures of our times, recognized and esteemed by leaders of many Christian Churches, as well as of other religions, and by prominent politicians and leaders in many different countries. She received a variety of awards such as the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education, fifteen honorary doctorates (theology, ecumenism, psychology, arts, philosophy, economics…) and honorary citizenships from various cities throughout the world.

What about the governing body of the Focolare Movement?

Its main governing body is the General Council, led by a president (always a lay woman, as specified by its Statutes) and a co-president (always a priest), both of whom remain in office for a period of six years, renewable once. The current President is Margaret Karram.

 

What about the relationship with the Catholic Church?

The Focolare Movement was approved by the Catholic Church in 1964 with the official name, “Work of Mary.” On June 29, 1990, the Pontifical Council of the Laity approved its current General Statutes and confirmed that it is a “private, universal association of the faithful,” and also declared it to be “a juridical entity in the canonical order by decree of the Holy See.” Wherever it is present, the Movement collaborates with leaders and representatives of the Catholic Church. It is also at the forefront in the work of ecumenical dialogue among Christians of other Churches.

How can one be part of the Focolare Movement?

Only three things are needed:

  • to share the dream and the commitment of contributing towards making humanity one family united in love;
  • to live this dream in one’s daily relationships. Christians get their inspiration to achieve this goal through the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel and in the Sacred Scripture. Followers of other religions are inspired by their respective Sacred Books, while those with no particular religious belief are inspired by ethical principles based on love and respect;
  • to share this lifestyle with others and contribute together with them towards the realization of a united and peaceful world.

What are the Movement’s activities ?

The Focolare Movement feels called to contribute to accomplishing the unity of the human family through a wide variety of activities, which depend on the needs of various countries and locations. These activities have an impact on every area of society and all fields of study.

What is the Movement’s policy about the rules on protection of minors?

The Focolare Movement is fully committed to formulate policies and provide formation to its members so as to prevent any abuse whatsoever to minors involved in any activities of the Movement. A document has been drawn up at the international center of the Movement in Rome that applies worldwide. The movement also requires its members to follow the local and national regulations and laws of their own country, and in particular, to follow the principles set out by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

To read the full document: click here

Is there a possibility of being updated about the Focolare Movement’s life and activities?

The website“Mariapolis, offers news about the Movement’s life and activities worldwide. Through a system of notifications, the user can choose with which means and what content he/she would like to receive information on a regular basis.

The magazines of the Focolare Movement – Città Nuova published in Italy, New City published in Great Britain, Living City published in the United States, New City published in the Philippines and in Kenya – are monthly or bi-monthly publications, some of which are available online. They offer articles on spirituality, current issues, life experiences in the area of dialogue and projects by individuals or groups that promote unity in a variety of fields.