“Be a family.” That phrase from Chiara Lubich’s spiritual testament was the guiding principle of the Mariapolis held from October 3 to 5 in the Jerte Valley. An environment overflowing with water, silence, and beauty helped participants discover God in the everyday, amidst nature and the relationships that arise from encounter.
Seventy-three people participated in this Mariapolis, accompanied by members of the Focolare Movement of Seville and the Focolare “Youth Project” of Madrid. They were joined by about twenty people from other regions, building a diverse community where adults, young people, and children lived together, with activities adapted to each stage of life.
From the very first day, the atmosphere was that of a family growing together: from initial greetings to deep conversations, from games to moments of silence. Through the historical journey of the Mariapolis and reflection on the charism of unity, participants delved into “the art of loving” and “closeness in God’s way.” These words didn’t remain mere theory; they were lived out in concrete gestures of reconciliation, listening, and shared joy.
One of the most meaningful moments was the meditative walk; a stroll in small groups where each participant could open their heart and share how to journey together: in the family, at work, at school, or in the community. The Living Peace educational project was also presented. 1which promotes a culture of peace and its concrete application in a school in Badajoz. The workshops and activities helped people discover that each person can be a "peace artisan," capable of sowing peace within themselves, among others, and in the world.
Music also had its place, as a language that unites and harmonizes. Songs, guitars, and voices wove moments of communion that included even the youngest children.
On Sunday, the parish community of St. Michael the Archangel welcomed all the participants to the Eucharist, sharing a meal and their faith together. Before departing, there was time to learn about the life of the village and its bounty: the cherries of the Jerte Valley, a symbol of a fertile and generous land, just like the hearts that met there.
Those who participated returned home with a shared feeling: gratitude and commitment. Gratitude for the experience and commitment to a life where fraternity and peace are not a distant ideal, but an everyday reality.
Because, as was repeated many times, being a family is possible.
