From June 13 – 19, here at San Martino a Monte, we had the pleasure of sharing some days with Sister Cristina, a religious of the Assumption, who helped us to understand that we are in a moment of initiation as a LaValla200> community.

 

We deepened our experience of discernment individually and in groups, preparing our hearts for this new beginning.

We talked about the importance of dedicating time to re-read and embrace our lives, to be aware, to stop and deepen the adventure of a life of faith. To give time to reflect on the meaning of life, to celebrate and live every moment, and in this dynamic to cultivate silence, the silence that recreates because it lets the Spirit act.

 

Following Sr Cristina, Br. Angel Medina and Br. Jeff Crowe led us in a process to reflect on our experience during thee months of formation. Through different expressions (photos, stories, songs, pictures, paintings, music, etc.) we shared our personal synthesis about this time of formation and discernment. This opportunity provided a space for an open heart sharing, which was received with the same warmth and tenderness for each participant.

 

On the weekend (June 18), we had a community outing to Frasassi, where the wonder of nature, through the majesty of caves with rock formations of millions of years, reminded us of the greatness of the presence of God in the universe. We also spent a few hours in the town of Gubbio, where the history of Saint Francis of Assisi and the wolf is remembered.

 

On Sunday (June 19), we enjoyed the dynamic and creative presentation of the Arco Norte region, which helped us to understand more deeply the socio-cultural and Marist reality amoung the countries that represent the region in this program (Venezuela, Mexico, USA, Canada).

 

In our last days (June 20 – 23) here at San Martino a Monte, we have shared with Br Chris Wills concrete and key elements of this new beginning as LaValla200> communities. We reviewed the Regional statutes of the new communities, the memorandum of understanding and "Our Call". The reflection of these elements lets us see the new language that this experience and others of the Institute have given to our Marist family, as well as new ways to understand and relate to each other.

 

Finally, the symbol that highlighted this new consciousness of fraternal love and service was the gift of the apron and shirt that we received. 

 

Thank you for your prayers as we continue our journey!

 

Laura Alejandra Miño Pérez