Most years, the Focolare Movement in Ireland has an annual event for all the family. This year it’s taking the form of a “Spring Gathering” on the theme of “Called to Love, Called to live as One”. It is a unique opportunity to invite family and friends to spend time together in a space which offers the chance to connect in an atmosphere of reflection, relaxation and recreation. The gathering is open to all ages and backgrounds, a great introduction to, as well as a chance to deepen our understanding of, the Focolare. A chance not to be missed!
Last year highlights of the event, also held in Dungarvan, included:
- a visit to the Trappist monastery at Mount Melleray.
- a hill-walk to view the Cross erected on a hill in the Holy Year of 1950;
- insightful talks and life stories
- presentations on the social outreach of members of the movement in Belfast and Dublin and other initiatives of supporting refugees in Ireland and a project relating to Africa
- Evening entertainment
Some impressions give a flavour of the days spent together in and around the beautiful Co. Waterford Gold Coast:
‘I had the most beautiful half day in Dungarvan on Saturday. It was lovely to be in the company of so many Focolare friends and to listen to Bishop Brendan talk about prayer and praying. Lovely to meet Carmel from Galway in person – familiar from Zoom meetings. Lovely to meet up again with Kathleen from Waterford and to listen to the accounts of various Focolare people of how they try to make the world a better place for others.’
‘these are the sort of spaces we need—to be nourished spiritually and then physically it’s a real connection…’
‘I loved the balance of the input which was open to all and had the soul of the Focolare and the life lived. The outings were a great start and enabled everyone to take part. The breadth of activities was good. I felt a deep sense of family and a desire to share this gift with many others.’
WHEN:
Arrival from 4:00pm on Thursday 4th April 2024. Programme from Friday, 5th April to 1.00pm on Sunday 7th April 2024
WHERE:
Accommodation (self-catering lodges and cottages or other accommodation you may arrange) and Registration: The Gold Coast Golf Resort, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 EA40
FOR INFORMATION AND COSTS CONTACT:
Gerard Mulligan (ROI) +353-(0)86-2243631
Manuel McGivern (NI) +44-779-5567784
Or email: focolare.ireland@focolare.org
