Province of Brasil Centro-Norte

Joint formation and the new relationship between brothers and laity was the subject chosen for the Forum which took place on 20 and 21 February during the meeting of those holding positions of responsibility in the province of Brasil Centro-Norte. More than 30 brothers and lay people, members of diverses commissions and work groups of the province, took part in the meeting, as well as the Provincial Council.

One of the objectives was to reflect on and develop further the meaning of the new relationship between brothers and laity, joint formation, and Marist spirituality.

Three presentations helped the group in the reflection : « Religious life and relations with the laity », « Spirituality and joint formation » and « Vocations and ministries in the Church ».

After these presentations of the Forum, the participants divided into six groups to reflect on the joint formation of brothers and laity and to take note of what are perceived as needs and possibilities. Then, they presented some of these needs, among others : the relationship of communion with the lay person, reinforcing opportunities for social gatherings, and the differentiated accompaniment of mixed communities. Among the possibilities raised : community insertion, the planning of sessions of formation with times for sharing of life, and the strengthening of the already existing formation processes.