Towards a New Relationship between Brothers and Laity
In July, former Brothers Living in Guatemala and their spouses, gathered for the fourth time to share, among themselves and the Brothers, as Marist Family; there were 31 in attendance. The objective was: “To continue walking, Brothers and Laity, in a new relationship, seeking together a greater vitality for the charism”. And so we took some time to greet one another, to meet again and to reconnect; being from different generations we needed that.
Br. Hipólito, Provincial, presented a series of photographs of the present Brothers and communities. We recognized some more easily than others, proving how time passes… and he explained to us the life and mission of some of the works and communities, most of which were new to us: Los Chiles, in Costa Rica; Talnique and the Jesús Obrero Complex, in El Salvador; the Moisés Cisneros School and the Technical College in Chichicastenango, Guatemala.
We also took some time to share, in groups and personally, some questions:
- What part of being Marist do you live today in your daily life? The men present responded to this question.
- What has your life been like in sharing it with someone who was a Marist Brother? The women answered this question.
This was done in a pleasant atmosphere, simple, sincere and enriching.
Subsequently the TWO TABLES continued calling us: Jesus and his word from one side, and from the other, we ourselves with friendship and affection at lunch.
The evaluation of the experience was positive and so wonderful that we agreed to move forward with this and other types of gatherings that we will try to promote.
Thanks to all the participants for this beautiful day; we kept in mind those who were unable to attend.
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Br. Jose Antonio Alonso