Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lima (Agenzia Fides) – In an authentic family environment and in spiritual reflection, with over 1,200 members of the “Sodalite” Family, today the First Spirituality Congress of Sodalite began in the city of Lima, Peru. Participants have come from all over the world, from the various institutions and associations that form a part of the spiritual family, such as the “Sodalicio de Vida Cristiana,” “Fraternidad Mariana de la Reconciliación,” “Siervas del Plan de Dios,” “Movimiento de Vida Cristiana,” “Asociación María Inmaculada,” and “Hermandad de Nuestra Señora de la Reconciliación.”
The activities began with an opening prayer to the Holy Spirit, placing the event in the hands of Our Lady. The opening address was given by Ignacio Blanco, President of the Organizing Committee of the Congress and member of “Sodalicio de Vida Cristiana,” who mentioned that “this First Congress is a very important moment.”
The central conference of the day was given by Luis Fernando Figari, Founder of the Sodalite Family, on “Charism and spirituality.” Before he began, he shared some essential messages from the special message sent by Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, on behalf of the Holy Father Benedict XVI, on the occasion of the Congress. The Holy Father encouraged the members of the Family to “deepen in their knowledge of the inspiration that has given birth to this Sodalitium and the Sodalite Family, thus adding to the gifts that the Spirit has given the Church.” The Successor of Peter thus offered his encouragement to the participants and bestowed his paternal blessing on all present.
Luis Fernando Figari reflected on the meaning and opportunity contained in the Congress, explaining that it is a special occasion to reflect, discuss, and give meaning to the community. “Nowadays, the world finds itself immersed in a serious crisis regarding the truth, on the possibility of discovering it and communicating it... As the Bible teaches us, we should always be prepared to give reasons for our hope.” e also mentioned that the Congress is “an expression of the need to penetrate into one's own spiritual wealth, dialogue on visions of the tradition ...of the spiritual family, as well as clarifying our life and action at the Service of God's Plan, the Church, and humanity.”
There was later a conference on “The human person and his fundamental dimensions,” given by Gabriel Pereyra, member of the “Sodalicio de Vida Cristiana.” Today's scheduled conferences are: “The human person and his relational dynamic,” and two panels. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 30/1/2009)
