(ZENIT News / Roma, 12.04.2023).- On December 7, 1943, marks the official birthdate of the Focolare Movement, the day when Chiara Lubich consecrated herself to God forever. Eighty years ago, a small community was born that, in the devastation of World War II, sought to restore peace and unity among all and soon spread worldwide, becoming part of the New Charismatic Movement in the Church. At the heart of the spirituality and action of the Focolare Movement is the Gospel and, in particular, Jesus’ prayer: «May they all be one» (John 17:21).
Currently, the Movement is present in 182 countries, a sign of the universality and urgency of unity and fraternity in these fragmented and tragic times. It includes Christians of various Christian denominations, believers of numerous religions, and people without a specific religious affiliation.
On December 7, Pope Francis will receive Margaret Karram, president of the Focolare Movement, Jesús Morán, co-president, and the group of leaders of the Movement in an audience. «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,» explains the President. «We want to bring to the Pope the love and affection of the thousands of people worldwide living the Charism of unity and renew our service to the Church in this synodal path, in collaboration with many others who want to contribute to peace and love to alleviate the wounds of humanity.»
At 6 p.m. on the same day, in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a thanksgiving Mass will be celebrated for these 80 years of the Focolare Movement’s life, presided over by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life, along with several other cardinals, bishops, and priests.
«This day,» Margaret Karram further explained, «will be the conclusion of a pilgrimage we wanted to make to some sacred and significant places in Assisi, Loreto, and Rome to give thanks, ask for forgiveness, and start again with courage and hope.»
