« Fraternity, Adults in the faith »
The annual meeting of the Italian Fraternity of Giugliano was held at the General House in Rome on 14 and 15 April. It is a time of exchange among lay people who share strongly the Marist charism and who live in different contexts. Generally, the days are filled with a series of activities centred around a leading theme. The theme chosen this year was : « Fraternity, adults in the faith ».
On arrival at the General House, we received a warm welcome from Br Pietro Bettin. He announced a surprise for us: a visit to the Marist Archives. Although this meant the sacrifice of a good part of the activities planned for the afternoon, we welcomed this idea with pleasure. For two hours, we had the impression of being with Marcellin, seeing his own letters from close up and traversing Marist history from the origins down to our day. It was a unique experience for all of us!
The evening was a pleasant time for diversion with a game, parents and children. Sunday morning, Francesca began the day with a prayer, followed by a study prepared by Sabatino entitled : « The disciples of Marcellin Champagnat ». This activity placed in relief some fundamental aspects of Marcellin’s character: the dynamic man, with clear ideas, the educator of children and youth, the formator of future apostles of youth. After examining the history and personality of Father Champagnat,we reflected on our own role as Marist laity : to extend his educational work. Where ? In the family, the Church, society and the fraternity.
Our mission consists essentially in taking part in the construction of the Kingdom of God where we live and work. At the close of the morning, Br Daniele dealt in depth with the theme of the meeting : « Adult faith: risk, certainty, processes ». Risk, for it requires loving the one who does not love: the enemy. Processes, seeing that it requires different ways according to the stages of life and accompanies personal growth. Certainty, because, after questioning ourselves, we turn again to God with a renewed stronger trust. Adult faith is a humble reality, always prepared for surprise and to offer itself unconditionally, whose truth is measured by the beauty of the life it inspires !
I hope that all those who live the Marist charism take part in these meetings in ever growing numbers, recognizing that the participation is the best way of increasing and becoming the « great family » of Marcellin and the good Mother!
Affectionately, Antonia.