The US Schoenstatt Family Movement invites participation in what might be the first Schoenstatt Encounter at the World Meeting of Families. In the name of the hosts, Fr. Marcelo Aravena, Austin, Texas, USA, sends this letter to the families of the Schoenstatt Movement who will attend the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia in September •
The International Schoenstatt Family Movement and the Schoenstatt Family Movement USA invite you to join us for a Schoenstatt Encounter at the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia this September. Please join us as we gather to prepare for Pope Francis’ visit to this historic North American city!
We will begin our Schoenstatt Encounter
Friday, September 25, Franklin Square, 200 6th St., Philadelphia
from 4 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
http://historicphiladelphia.org/once-upon-a-nation/historical-performances/
Where we will have plenty of space to meet and greet our International Schoenstatt Families.
This park has an indoor pavilion, where our welcome committee will greet you and offer beverages. Located on the grounds is a Park Snack Bar where you may purchase the famous Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches, hamburgers, or other local cuisine items for dinner. There is plenty of green space to relax and visit with other Schoenstatter, families, and couples. The park also offers Miniature Golf with the Philadelphia Monuments Theme, as well as a carousel ride for the children. If you have time you may also want to visit the Historic Betsy Ross House (First American Flag Maker for the USA), and the nearby Historic Philadelphia City Center (just a few blocks away from Franklin Square). Where you will find boutique and souvenir shops as well as restaurants.
At 5:45 p.m. we will gather in the park and process 3 blocks to St. Augustine’s Historic Catholic Church, 243 North Lawrence Street, http://www.st-augustinechurch.com where we will celebrate
Holy Mass at 6:30 p.m.
Following Mass, we will hear from a representative Schoenstatt Couple’s speaker of the Wold Meeting of Families Conference, as well as a representative of the Schoenstatt Father’s Community, to address the topics:
- What did we experience at this historic World Meeting of Families Conference?
- How is God calling us to respond?
- And how is our Schoenstatt Charism able to address this response?
These will be followed with night prayers, songs, and the evening blessing at 8 p.m.
There will be a reception and light refreshments offered in the Parish Hall until 9:30 p.m.
We look forward to seeing you at this Schoenstatt Encounter Event, as we prepare to greet our Holy Father, Pope Francis in historic Philadelphia!
For more information you may contact Mike and Lisa Arth at schoenstatt.dfw@gmail.com
