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Community Meeting Focused on Unity, Peace and Collaboration

 
At last Sunday’s Focolare community meeting, we saw how Margaret Karram's words at the Genfest 2024 are being put into action right here in Ireland. She encouraged everyone to return to their countries and find ways to engage through their passions, studies, or professions—whether in economics, peace, intercultural dialogue, health, or politics. She said that the participants of the Genfest had experienced the power of living in true "comm-UNITY" and that this experience would continue and be like a training ground, where we can continue practicing fraternity and build “cells of unity”.

On Sunday, 20th October, representatives of  Focolare communities in Ireland gathered in the Focolare Centre, Curryhills,  for an enriching and inspiring meeting which focused on the Word of Life* and the theme of “Unity” – a central aspect of Focolare’s  spirituality.  The day was filled with spiritual reflection, collaborative activities and the sharing of personal experiences that resonated deeply with all in attendance.

The day began with a warm welcome from Cathy and Andrew. A moment of reflection was introduced through a “Time Out for Peace” video, after which a child rolled the “Cube of Peace” reminding everyone of the importance of peace in our lives.

Buzz groups

A significant highlight of the morning was the introduction of the Gen 4 “Word of Life” through a brief video presentation. This was followed by a buzz group discussion, in which those present shared experiences of putting the Word of Life into practice in daily life. Feedback from the groups was insightful, emphasizing the relevance of the Word of Life in today’s challenging times.

Jean & Donacha

A clip from the Genfest 2024 gave everyone a glimpse of the awesome experience which took place in Brazil in the month of July.

 

After lunch, the afternoon session kicked off with another uplifting song, followed by a warm welcome back from Cathy and Andrew. setting the stage for an inspiring interview with Jean and Donacha, who shared personal experiences of unity in action. The children were guided to their respective programs, while the adults participated in further discussions on the theme of unity.

Hilda

Chiara Lubich’s profound message on unity was shared via a video clip (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-XGZK1qxFM), reminding everyone of the spiritual foundation of the movement. Joan followed with her experience on ecumenism, highlighting the importance of dialogue and collaboration. Irene gave a short presentation of Sanctuary Runners Global Solidarity Run (https://sanctuaryrunners.ie/global-solidarity-run-2024/) which took place on 19th October and an update on the launching of Archbishop Martin’s message of creating a welcoming Church and the launch of a document centred on “Embracing the Stranger” at Drumcree Conference Centre on 12th October.

Participants then engaged in buzz groups to discuss how unity can be fostered in families, workplaces, and daily life. The feedback from these discussions was both practical and inspiring, showcasing the commitment of the community to making unity a lived reality.

 

The day ended with Margaret Karram’s message at the most recent Link Up Conference Call (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDg3QiQgRVo&list=PL9YsVtizqrYspQ6-B-atve2GWrciKuKap&index=2) which was a moving testimony of her personal passion for peace despite the challenges the world is facing. The children returned to the hall, and preparations for the upcoming Christmas celebrations were discussed, including the by now annual “100 Back Pack Appeal for Christmas 2024” for the “Merchants’ Quay Ireland Homeless and Drug Service”.

This community meeting was a reminder of the power of unity and shared purpose. The experiences shared, combined with the messages of hope, peace, and collaboration, left a lasting impression on all who attended. As we move forward, the focus remains on building a more united and loving world, both locally and globally. Thanks to Henry for the photos.

Upcoming dates:

Sunday 3rd November, Annual Memorial Mass, 3 pm, Holy Rosary Church Ballycragh, Dublin 24

Monday 4th November, 5:00-7:00 PM (Irish time), online update of the Synodal Assembly, by the General Secretariat of the Synod and other participants. Webinar Link (Italian with translation into English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German)
https://sophiauniversity-org.zoom.us/j/84432651484?pwd=D1yCAal8J1DlbQqle80MrIDWDW6P7X.1

Sunday 17th November, next community meeting in Curryhills

Sunday 15th December, “Journeying Towards Christmas” celebration in Curryhills

Saturday 14th December, “Link Up”, international conference call.

 

* October 2024 Word of Life: Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. (Mk 10: 43-44)

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