MANILA--Members and friends of Focolare have observed the first death anniversary of Focolare founder, Chiara Lubich through a Eucharistic celebration and a book launch of her writings. Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams led the memorial Mass together with His Eminence Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, other bishops and clergy of the Archdiocese of Manila at the Manila Cathedral on March 13.
Bishop-emeritus of Alaminos Most Reverend Jesus A. Cabrera, during his homily, described Lubich as a woman full of love for God, for men and for the Church.
Cabrera discussed how Lubich lived her life and how she became an instrument to nurture unity among people of different cultures, races, and social circumstances.
“Chiara is a spiritual mother, sister, friend, guide…” Cabrera said as he enumerated the qualities that characterized Lubich’s life during her journey on earth.
He also talked about the International Focolare Movement which was founded by Lubich. Lubich has dedicated her life in building unity among humanity through the movement that she established.
“Her life is full of love for God,” Cabrera said.
The heart of the Focolare spirituality and lifestyle is the love and unity for humanity.
Friends and colleagues of Lubich from various religious affiliations paid tribute on the charismatic leader prior to the Eucharistic celebration.
A book launch on the “Essential Writings of Chiara Lubich” was held the following day at the Medicine Auditorium of the Pontifical University of Sto. Tomas.
The affair, jointly organized by the university and members of Focolare had former Ambassador Henrietta de Villa, Fr. Antonio Lambino and Professor Sonny Coloma as panel of speakers.
Each of them shared their insights on Lubich and her movement’s unique charism as well as her contribution in forging unity and understanding among people of diverse beliefs and religious persuasion.
The book launching was also graced by the presence of the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, friends and members of Focolare from Italy, Philippines, and other Asian countries.
Other similar celebrations also took place in various parts of the world to commemorate the event.
The Focolare movement which Lubich founded has spread in 182 nations with members numbering 140,000 and millions of adherents, including from other religions, to its spirituality of unity based on Gospel values.
Lubich has been described as “one of the most influential women in the Catholic Church” because of her great contribution in forging unity in the world.
Her charismatic spirituality has crossed borders and healed divisions as she was able to reach out and bring together in greater understanding people of diverse cultural and spiritual traditions. (Kate Laceda/CBCPNews)