Focolare Movement

The journey towards communion moves on

Jan 23, 2005

Ecumenism

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

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