Ongoing formation “Senderos-Midlife” 2025 in Manziana
The âSenderos-Midlifeâ program, to Brothers in their midlife, is taking place in Manziana. It began last 31st March and will finish on June 21st June. The Brothers from the Ongoing Formation team of the Institute (Brothers Michael Sexton, AtaĂde JosĂ© de Lima e Xavi BarcelĂł) are accompanying the group, that is formed by 16 brothers from Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, Venezuela, Argentina, Mexico, Ghana, Madagascar, Fiji, United States and Spain.
The course structure has ten “paths”:
- Interiority: My story is sacred
- Ecology and consecrated life
- Experience of fraternity
- Spiritual itinerary
- Self-care and integrated life
- Affectivity and sexuality in consecrated life
- Global family and intercultural life
- In the footsteps of Marcellin
- Constitutions and Rule of Life
- Accomplices of the Spirit and Missio Dei
Here we report a chronicle of the first week, prepared by Brother Simon Kanjam, on behalf of all mid-lifers on the program.
On March 31, 2025, the Manziana Community opened its doors to Brothers for the Midlife Course. Participants from around the world answered present, except for Ben Meshach, who faced issues with his travel documents. During the first week, the group has participated in activities that shall help them to foster community life, communion, and family spirit.
A Journey of Spiritual Nourishment and Reflection
In Manziana, we have come to be spiritually nourished and nurtured for the journey ahead. This weekâs activities have been designed to help the Brothers fraternize with one another, become familiar with Manziana, the General House, and the holy sites of Rome. At the heart of the program is a powerful invitation to listen anew to Godâs call, expressing gratitude for His faithfulness and the fulfillment of His dream for us. In the weeks to come, the courses will guide us in re-listening, reflecting, praying, and discerning our calls with fresh insights.
Shared Stories and Common Ground
Through discussions in the large group and fraternities, we have come to realize that, in many ways, we share a common story. We are all sculpted from the spirit of Champagnat â a DNA of strong minds, gentle hearts, and a visionary, daring spirit. This shared identity creates a profound bond among us, transcending borders and backgrounds, helping us deepen our sense of community and communion.
Listening and Discernment: A Path Forward
From the altar of Manziana, modelled after the altar in the chapel in the woods, we will unpack the stories of our lives. Together, we will read them afresh to find meaning for the present and future. Like Moses standing before the burning bush, we will listen once again. And like Elijah, we will emerge from the caves of Manziana to hear Godâs gentle whisper in the breeze. And like Mary on the fourth station of the cross, we shall listen and discern to follow Christ on the path leading to his hour of glorification.
Bringing Our Joys, Sorrows, and Hopes
As we embark on this spiritual journey, we bring with us not only our joys and sorrows but also the pain and anguish of our provinces and the world at large. We have begun to take stock in the afternoons of our lives, hoping that this process will continue to lead us along safe paths, guiding us to complete our journey before nightfall.
Preparation for the Long Haul
We trust that the guidance we receive in this sacred space will prepare us for whatever lies on the horizon, as we remain open to Godâs calling and the journey that unfolds. And gathering at Manziana is a privilege, and a great responsibility to look beyond to grace-filled and fulfilled lives, a foretaste of the kingdom on earth. A time to look beyond!
_____________________
Brother Simon Kanjam – West Africa
Participants:
- Alexandre Rakotomalala – Madagascar
- Alfredo Saiz GarcĂa – Compostela
- Bernard Aguma (Ben Meshach) – Nigeria
- Brian Poulin – USA
- DionĂsio Roberto Rodrigues – Brasil Sul-AmazĂŽnia
- Erong Sebastian Kangurinuuri – West Africa
- FĂĄbio Soares do Nascimento – Brasil Centro-Norte
- Gregorio Delgado Soler – Sta Maria De Los Andes
- Jarbas Rodrigues de Sousa – Brasil Centro-Norte
- Jone Seduadua – Star Of The Sea
- Manuel Delgado Carrillo – Mexico Occidental
- RaĂșl Schönfeld – Cruz Del Sur
- Sadi Cella – Brasil Centro-Sul
- Salvador Ălvarez Poveda – Norandina
- Simon Kanjam – West Africa
