December 7, 1943 marks the official date of the birth of the Focolare Movement, that is, the day on which Chiara Lubich consecrated herself to God forever.
Eighty years ago, a small community was born in the devastation of the Second World War, seeking to restore peace and unity among all. It soon spread throughout the world, integrating itself into the current of the Church's New Charisms. At the heart of the Focolare's spirituality and action is the Gospel, and especially Jesus' prayer: "That they may all be one" (Jn 17:21). Today, the Movement is present in 182 countries, a sign of the universality and urgency of unity and brotherhood in these fragmented and tragic times. It also includes Christians from various Churches, followers of numerous religions, and people without a specific religious orientation.
On December 7th, Pope Francis will receive in audience Margaret Karram, president of the Focolare Movement, Jesús Morán, co-president, and the group of leaders of the Movement [in the zones]. “Being received by the Holy Father on December 7, 2023, exactly eighty years after Chiara Lubich's first 'yes' to God, is an extraordinary and surprising gift for us,” the president explains. “We want to bring to the Pope the love and affection of the thousands of people around the world who live the Charism of Unity and renew our service to the Church on this synodal journey, in collaboration with many others who wish to contribute to peace and love to heal the wounds of humanity.”
At 6 p.m. on the same day, a Mass of thanksgiving for the 80 years of the Focolare movement will be celebrated in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, presided over by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell. Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, along with other cardinals, bishops and priests.
“This day,” Margaret Karram explains, “marks the conclusion of a pilgrimage we have chosen to make to some of the sacred and significant places in Assisi, Loreto, and Rome, to give thanks, ask for forgiveness, and begin anew with courage and hope. The Focolare communities around the world will also experience this anniversary with the same sentiments and objectives, to be “witnesses of the closeness of fraternal love that transcends every barrier and reaches every human condition.”[1]
[1] Address of the Holy Father Francis to the participants in the General Assembly of the Focolare Movement – 6 February 2021
