Marist Province Brasil Centro-Norte

The meeting of Community Animators, held from 12 to 15 April in Brazlândia/DF, was marked by a spirit of family, transparency and simplicity. Having as theme: “Forward, with eyes fixed on Jesus,”, it began with a eucharistic celebration around the altar. The Provincial, Br Wellington Medeiros, greeted the participants with a reflection on a text of Saint Bernard. The saint puts us on guard against the danger of excessive activity and emphasizes the need for relaxation and care for the spiritual life.

The first day, BrothersJames Pinheiro and Adalberto Amaral facilitated reflection on the mission of the community animator. The participants had time for personal prayer and group sharing.

The second day was centred on community. Sister Zenilda Luzia Petry, of the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of Saint Joseph, president of the CRB of Belém, reflected with the brothers on “The craziness that living the Consecrated Religious Life should be”. This was the theme of the seminar for major superiors held in Itaici (SP) at the end of February. Sister Zenilda invited the brothers to think of themselves within the paradox of the craziness of God and the craziness of the world, in a reflection in the light of the Word of God and one’s personal experiences.

The third day, BrWellington informed the community animators about various topics of the life of the Province and the Institute,and continued with a conversation with the brothers and the  Provincial Council. The groups returned to meet in the afternoon. They reflected on all that had been said in the morning and considered the provincial priorities for the three years, starting from the question: What steps are necessary for putting the priorities into practice?

The time of fraternal exchange was dedicated to launching the book celebrating the  Centenary of Apipucos. To conclude the meeting, some information was given about the Provincial Assembly, Retreat and Chapter. Br Wellington also explained the consultation process for the appointment of the new Provincial.