Rome (Fides Service) - Animators of the Italian branch of Renewal in the Spirit charismatic movement from all over the country will attend the 28th Renewal in the Spirit Conference in Rimini, 29 October to 1 November, to reflect and pray on the theme: “The time is coming, and it is already here, when true worshipers will adore the Father in spirit and truth”. Some 4,000 charismatics representing 1,800 Renewal in the Spirit groups up and down the country are expected to attend.
Earlier this year in preparation for Pentecost, the Italian branch of Renewal in the Spirit started a Burning Bush "Roveto Ardente" initiative of six weeks or adoration and prayer to encourage twenty four hour adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. The initiative was lauded by the Pope during a special celebration of Pentecost Vespers in St Peter’s Square on Saturday 29 May, 2004, attended by thousands of members of Renewal in the Spirit from various countries. Among other things the Pope said: “I encourage the Burning Bush initiative started by the Renewal in the Spirit.
The Conference programme includes: 30 October a “Day of Reflection on the Mystery of the Church which builds up the Church” to mark this Special Year of the Eucharist called by Pope John Paul II and in preparation for an Italian national Eucharistic Congress in Bari in 2005; 31 October discussion on how to promote the Burning Bush initiative to foster wider participation in adoration of the Eucharist, followed by an “evening of fraternity and sharing on the paths of the Spirit”; 1 November, All Saints Day, national RNS co-ordinator Salvatore Martinez, will give the last talk “For a burning bush of prayer: suggestions for spiritual animation” and the Conference will close with Mass presided by national RNS spiritual director Mgr. Dino Foglio. (AP) (28/10/2004 Agenzia Fides; Righe: 26; Parole: 336)