A living presence in the diocese of Girona

The diocesan magazine The Signal It reflects the presence of the Focolare Movement in the Diocese of Girona for over 60 years. We present the translation of the published text.

The Focolare Movement:
A path of fraternity

The movement arrived in Catalonia in 1959 and in the Diocese of Girona in the mid-1960s, where it maintains an active and committed presence today. Its members—Catholics, Christians of other denominations, people of other faiths, or those with no religious affiliation—work to build fraternal relationships among individuals, communities, and cultures through dialogue and coexistence. Inspired by Jesus' prayer, "That they may all be one" (John 17:21), they propose a spirituality of unity based on mutual love, respect for each person, and valuing differences as a source of enrichment.

This spirituality has become a lifestyle that transforms relationships, social, family, and ecclesial environments. In more secular terms, we can say that the Focolare Movement promotes universal fraternity.

The movement is an integral part of the ecclesial fabric of Girona, operating through local communities that collaborate with parishes, lay apostolate movements, and social initiatives. Its work is directed toward young people, families, consecrated persons, and lay people, with a special emphasis on spiritual formation and dialogue. Currently, around fifty people belong to the movement, primarily concentrated in three areas: Girona, Castell d'Aro, and Calella.

In Castell d'Aro, since the Oliver sisters first encountered the Focolare Movement in 1967, a small community formed around Mas Dausà, a farmhouse they donated to the movement. Since 1980, this farmhouse has been known as the Mariapolis Loreto Center, a space for spirituality where retreats, meetings, seminars, and gatherings are held.

The Focolare Movement in the Diocese of Girona seeks to be a living witness to the Gospel, working for unity among people, faiths, and cultures. In a fragmented world, its proposal of unity, fraternity, and dialogue is more relevant than ever.

JOSEP BOFILL
Member of the Focolare Movement