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Day #1 |
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Tuesday 12 August
"From this moment we are no longer simply delegates we are the core of the World Community." Daniela Frank
The delegates gather for the opening of the 2008 CVX-CLC World Assembly.
"We need to enter with an open heart, an open mind and in freedom, searching together for the will of God." Daniela Frank welcomes the delegates on behalf of the World Ex-Co.
President of CLC Portugal Carla Rebelo, welcomes delegates on behalf of the host community giving thanks for the many graces they have received in preparing for the assembly.
First contacts …
As the name of each of the 66 countries present at the assembly is read out the delegates display their national flag.
Antonio Marto Bishop of Leiria, Nuno Goncalves SJ, Provincial of Portugal, and Alberto Brito, World Vice Ecclesial Assistant for CLC, celebrate the opening mass.
Bishop Antonio Marto reflects on the importance of the message of Our Lady of Fatima for CLC - making God the centre of our lives, the value of reconciliation and the search for peace, and the call to be childlike in humility.
Edward Warrington - 'the caretaker' who will guide the assembly explains the process the delegates will use to 'gather around Jesus and tell him what we have done and taught."
"Here we are - having travelled by 1000 roads, in a 1000 ways, and arrived in a 1000 different moments, because it is the Lords' will for us." Edward Warrington
The first 3 days will be spent sharing the story of our journeys like travellers who meet on the way. Where have we come from to get here?
In days 4,5, and 6 we will exchange the gifts of our wisdom insights and ideas. We imagine the disciples discussing with Jesus and together - What more can we do?
The final four days are the time for making plans, choosing the right means for the tasks ahead and electing wise leaders.
Delegates are presented with an account of our history from our formation as CLC in 1968. Through the world assemblies of Itaici and Nairobi we discover and then deepen our understanding of what it means to be called as an apostolic body.
In a recorded message Fr Kolvenbach, former Superior General of the Jesuits gives thanks for CLC and reminds us of our origins in the time of St Ignatius.
The Delegates of each country present a symbol of their community to the assembly and share the story of their journey over the last five years from Nairobi to Fatima.
"Let us stay in the present. We are still gathering around Jesus and we have many stories still to tell." Edward Warrington.
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