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Bartolomeo I with Focolare

“Chiara committed herself to fraternity, unity and peace in all areas of human life, giving us a message through her life and her writings which we cannot ignore,” said Patriarch Bartholomew in a commemorative statement. 

The Focolare community is celebrating the centenary of the birth of Lubich throughout this year. “How many other things our Chiara would have done if she were still among us!” added the special statement of His All Holiness Bartholomew. “But it is not the years that give meaning to life, it is not the quantity, it is not the length. It is how we commit the talents that He has offered us. It is the quality of a life lived in witness to He who is the Life.”

The Ecumenical Patriarch was welcomed by Focolare president Maria Voce, and his statement expressed his affection and esteem for Voce. “Having reached the end of your mandate as president, we also want to thank you for your great contribution to the movement,” the Ecumenical Patriach’s statement read. “Our memory of you, like all of you, remains in our heart, and you will surely continue the charism where the Lord calls you to.”

As part of the centenary celebration, Focolare youth are continuing a “United World Project,” with the motto #daretocare, that focuses on care for the environment and the most fragile parts of society around the world.