Focolare Movement

Thank you, Holy Father

Feb 16, 2013

The families of the Focolare thank Benedict XVI for the special attention he always showed to the families of the world.

In a letter addressed to Benedict XVI, the central directors of the Focolare’s New Families Movement, Alberto and Anna Friso write:

“The families of the Focolare Movement were deeply moved by the announcement of the Holy Father’s resignation.

The memory is still fresh in our minds of that day when you wished to give solemnity to the 40th anniversary of the New Families Movement by receiving us in special audience at the Clementine Salon on November 3, 2007.

Your words traced a line of light for our Movement and for the world of the family.

Certain that love for the family will continue in your heart, the New Families wish to express their most heartfelt thanks!”

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Subscribe to Newsletter

Thought of the day

Related post

Audience with Pope Leo XIV

Audience with Pope Leo XIV

On Saturday 21 March 2026, participants in the Assembly of the Focolare Movement were received in private audience by Pope Leo XIV. The Pope reaffirmed the essence and fruitfulness of the charism of unity, a gift from God for the Church and for the world, and encouraged everyone to live this post-foundational phase with confidence, transparency and responsibility.

Living the Gospel: “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening” (Lk 24:29)

Living the Gospel: “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening” (Lk 24:29)

How can we recognize the presence of Jesus when faced with darkness, injustices and inequalities? When hardship and suffering seem to obscure all hope? The road to Emmaus becomes a symbol of each person’s journey of faith, of our deep desire to rediscover Christ in everyday choices; an encounter that leads to joy and shared testimony. It is the moving invitation that we can all extend to him so that, once he is found, he remains with us and among us.

Easter: The Foundation of the Great Hope

Easter: The Foundation of the Great Hope

This reflection on the Easter reasons and origins of Christian hope, hope that still “dares” to speak to people today, is offered by Declan J. O’Byrne, theologian and rector of the Sophia University Institute.