A Marist Family gathering took place in the North of Italy gathering representatives of the Marist Family in Italy, including Laity.
There were five short talks about how to live in today’s world as Marists. Discussions and questions followed and in the afternoon there was a symbolic activity of 'building a Marist house' and looking at furnishing it. Fun in the evening! Sunday morning was dedicated to developing some concrete ideas to foster unity and collaboration in the future.
Speakers included Sr. Silvia Sanz (Marist Sisters), Fr. Larry Duffy (Marist Fathers), Br. Marco Ciancia (Marist Brothers), Laura De Alessi (Marist Layperson) and, via video link from Rwanda, Sr. Cristina Giustozzi (Superior General of the SMSM). These talks were followed by discussions and questions. In the afternoon, divided into groups, a symbolic activity took place: the construction of a ‘Marist house’, including plans for its furnishings. In a plenary session, the groups shared their work and the discussion continued. Sunday morning was devoted to developing some concrete ideas to promote unity and collaboration in the near future. The meeting concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist.
Reflecting on this gathering, Father Faustino Ferrari, SM said: "The participants were struck by the common language and unity of spirit, whilst recognising the presence of a positive diversity. The meeting took place in an atmosphere of great joy and fraternity. It was needed – we are fragmented and dispersed. Working together revealed that a common language exists amongst the branches of the Marist Family. This indicates that we share a common heritage. We didn’t anticipate this, but such is the beauty and the unpredictability of life."
