The Down and Connor sponsored event, marked the presentation of the diocese’s pastoral plan, which had been years in preparation, involving the input of about 3,000 people.

A group from Focolare attended the conference, taking it in on turns to man the stand.  A variety of other Movements also had stands at different levels to share their own contribution towards a vision of the church where priest and people were “co-responsible” and together worked to create “open and welcoming” communities.

“It was a welcome opportunity to renew contact with people who had contact with the Focolare from the past as well as to share with the diocese more information about the Focolare,”  said Irene Jovaras.

Friday 27th September witnessed the influx of over a thousand young people from local secondary schools some of whom were familiar with the initiative of the “cube of love” promoted by the New Humanity branch of the Focolare Movement in Ireland in primary schools.