By Matters India Reporter
Pune: The papal seminary in Pune, western India, will host the annual gathering of the Focolare Movement, an international organization that promotes the ideals of unity and universal brotherhood.
The May 24-27 program, titled 2018 Mariapolis (City of Mary), is “a special family holiday moment. The uniquely beautiful setting of the venue makes it a place for reflection, encounter and creation,” said Doni and Brian on behalf of the Focolare family. The two Indians are coordinating the event as organizers.
The theme chosen for the occasion is “Be a family,” and it is open to all religions. Focolare Movement’s main aim is to promote unity among various cultures and religions.
Through interactive sessions, moments of prayer, music, creative, workshops, games and various other activities, the Mariapolis offers all an opportunity to explore a life focused on unity in every situation and the impact it has on the world around.
Children and teenagers follow parallel programs which allow them to participate fully in the Mariapolis and make their own unique contribution to it.
In the early 1950s, when Chiara Lubich, founder of Focolare Movement, and her friends went up to the Dolomites (Italy), mountains of Trent, for their summer rest, little did they know that they were setting a tradition that would be repeated, at different times, in varied ways, and in diverse places all over the globe.
Rest, just like work, can be a precious opportunity to experience the newness that the Gospel brings: universal brotherhood. The method is quite simple, too simple perhaps for the sophisticated, but enchanting for those who, in their hearts, remain like little children.
“Do unto others what you would have others do unto you.” A simple rule, the “golden rule,” which even those who do not know Jesus acknowledge and can practice.
Very soon, Chiara and the first group were joined by men and women of different ages, social backgrounds and nationalities, who were attracted by this experience and wanted to share it with them.
Professionals, laborers, employees, politicians, children and the elderly all felt like they were one family building together a city, with only one law: Evangelical Love. They called this temporary city Mariapolis.
The Mariapolis has become a regular appointment for members and friends of the Focolare Movement in the 186 nations where it is present, including India.
Originally a kind of summer vacation in the mountains, its present format varies from nation to nation, from region to region, as it becomes inculturated in the reality of the local community.