Preliminary preparations for the 2023 International Gathering of Marist Youth in Lisbon
The reflection and preparation for the International Gathering of Marist Youth 2023 are ongoing among the four branches of the Marist family. With the approval to continue this gathering as one family, the commission made up of representative of four branches held meetings online and the proposal on why, who and when of the gathering were defined and sent to the general councils of the family for approval.
Over the years, the gathering together with the other branches of the Marist family is appreciated by all and this time again, we will continue to connect the best experiences together. Remember that similar experiences were held in France (2016) and in Guatemala (2019).
The gathering among others will provide an opportunity to:
- Encourage young people to embrace the precious gift that they are to God, to the Marist Family, to the Church and to the world.
- Live an international and intercultural experience, guided by the spirit of Mary – the Marist spirit.
- Build on the experience which took place in Guatemala, 2019.
- Offer an experience of Marist prayer, community, family, and mission.
- Discover ways to deepen and live out our personal call to discipleship.
- Begin to understand what it means to be a pilgrim amongst other pilgrims.
The INTERNATIONAL GATHERING OF MARIST YOUTH will take place some days before the World Youth Day activities in Lisbon (Portugal) confirmed by the Vatican for the 1st to the 8th of August 2023.
We will keep you informed as the discussion continue to unfold and suggest the next steps for the participants from our Institute. Be prepared and let’s share the news with the young people who are already waiting for this news.
The members of the commission preparing the gathering are Sr Anne McCabe (Marist Sisters), Sr Cristina Giustozzi (Marist Missionary Sisters), Fr Juan Carlos Piña (Marist Fathers) and Bros. Carlos Alberto Rojas and Mark Okolo Omede (Marist Brothers).