Focolare Mariapolis 2024 - Together we can make a difference

Six years after the last nationwide summer gathering in Great Britain, the Focolare Movement welcomed 350 'Mariapolis' participants to Harper Adams University in Shropshire 25-28 July. Described by some as a massive family reunion, there was an atmosphere of great joy and celebration.

Involving everyone from the youngest - a four week-old baby! - to the eldest, the theme of mission in the widest sense was explored across three days. The sessions were entitled God Calls Us, God Sends Us and Together we can make a difference respectively.

Presentations featured contributions from the wider body of the Focolare Movement, and reflected the diversity of cultures present in Britain today. There were moving testimonies highlighting the calls to priesthood, to marriage, to working for the good of society - all understood as calls to respond to God's love. Music and colour were intrinsic to the programme, both in guiding reflection and in celebration together. The all-age 'Launchpad' started each morning with a challenge to find ways to bring God's love to those around. The children led by example, ready to put love into practice straightaway.

The drama across the world stage from recent years was reflected in the significant presence of many who had left their home countries under difficult circumstances, seeking a new life in this country.

The presence of many young families brought a new energy, while the faithful life of many established local communities provided a rich resource of wisdom and experience. There was also a parish group from the West Midlands who came for the day by coach, with one family enjoying it so much that they came back the next day.

The ecumenical nature of the Mariapolis was expressed through the presence of several different Christian denominations. There was an opportunity to attend Roman Catholic Mass, Anglican Eucharist, informal worship and a United Reformed Church Eucharist, with many participants choosing to respectfully attend the celebrations of other denominations as well as their own.

Afternoon outings gave the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside, an ice cream farm and a fantastic local park. A choice of workshops was offered, ranging from active citizenship, living spirituality in the parish, and dementia support, to crochet, mindful colouring or learning the bagpipes! A big game involving all-age teams also took place one afternoon, blessed by glorious sunshine.

Many left the Mariapolis inspired by the experience and with their spiritual batteries re-charged:

"This was my first Mariapolis and the sense of love and community was remarkable! I take away a real sense of love and unity, and how by little actions we can truly change the world together."

"It was deeply spiritual and yet so accessible."

"I liked the sense of community, altogether absent from everyday life: something truly special, miraculous even."

LINK

Focolare: www.focolare.org/