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Celebración del aniversario de la Comunidad San Egidio, Roma Celebration of the anniversary of the Sant’Egidio Community, Rome Feier des Jahrestags der Gemeinschaft Sant’Egidio |
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Homilía: Mons. Rylko Sermon: Archbishop Rylko Ansprache: Erzbischof Rylko |
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Capilla San Egidio Chapel of St. Egidio Kapelle Sant’Egidio Fotos: www.santegidio.org © 2005 |
ROME, P. Alberto Eronti. On the afternoon of February 3rd I participated in the celebrations organized by the "Community of Sant'Egidio" on the occasion of its founding. The Community began 37 years ago, ' in a small chapel dedicated to" Sant'Egidio ", a short distance from the Church of "Saint Mary in Trastevere". The celebration was scheduled, as is the custom, in two parts: The Eucharist and the fraternal agape.
We met in the Cathedral of the Pope, The Basilica of Saint John Lateran, for the celebration of the Mass. The liturgy was scheduled for 6:30, but by 5:00 there were many people praying. The great number of persons of the Community who were on the welcoming committee and also all the organization; was noticeable.
For example, the good seating arrangement and the great number of screens that were displayed in the entire area and transmitted the details of the ceremony, creating the feeling that no one was left out and that they would not miss anything.
The "spirit of Assisi"
The liturgy was presided by the Archbishop Stanislaw Rylko (President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity), it was concelebrated by more than 60 Bishops and more than 100 priests from different countries and races. Three Cardinals were present, one an archiepiscopal, and - faithful called to the "spirit of Assisi" -representatives of various Christian churches and of the New Communities and Movements. There were several Ambassadors to the Holy See, representatives of politics, culture, the media.
Naturally, with the great number of concelebrants, the entrance procession was very impressive. The rhythm of the liturgy was the best, which permitted a profound atmosphere of prayer and participation.
What the celebrations of the Covenant Days each 18th mean for Schoenstatt...
In the homily, Mons. Rylko, made reference to the reason for the celebration: "Once a year, the Community meets to remember the gifts that God has given it and through it to the Church and the world". The annual celebration is for the Community, what the celebration of the 18th of each month is for our Family. This explains the importance of the celebration and the great number of participants. Mons. Rylko continued saying that: "To celebrate the memory is to acknowledge the history as a gift and for that reason, as a treasure, school, message and the source of the Charisma. To remember is to sing a Magnificat recognizing the great things that the Almighty has done in the Community". Then, the Archbishop mentioned the future: "To recall is to renew oneself in the Charisma and to project it forward. The charisma was given as a mission! If we only remember, we would run the risk of "turning inwards" at only "looking at ourselves", No! The charisma is a mission, it must be given, handed over, given away. Do not let the fire of the mission go out! The Church needs it, it needs it". Then, he recalled that according to the measure that the gift that was received was lived, it became clearer, it kept growing and it was becoming complete. "You started as a small group helping the poor, the homeless, the immigrants; then you discovered the value of peace and you worked for it; then you perceived the enormous value of ecumenism and you have walked through its paths. This indicates that the charisma is always growing, that it is the Spirit who 'completes' its gifts". I also recall that the Community is already in 70 countries and it continues with its plans for expansion. He made reference to the "Prize" that the Community received for its works and efforts for peace in different countries of Africa and the Near East.
Prayers for the Pope and his health
The main emphasis of the prayer of the faithful was for the person of the Pope and his health, peace, Christian unity, and of course, gratitude. The petitions were said in various languages by persons from different countries. It was an international experience, but it was also one of commitment and with relation to the most pressing problems of the world. For example, the Community was not established in the countries affected by the "Tsunami", but immediately they mobilized themselves and they are working there. In this event they saw an "open door" for their charisma and mission.
At the end of the Mass, during the recessional procession of the concelebrants, the closing hymn was sung by all, while clapping to accompany the lyrics and music.
As always, the Community and its friends demonstrated a serene joy, a friendly and warm attitude. Professor Andrea Riccardi, founder of the Community, was the recipient of expressions of regard and affection from everyone. He is no longer the President of the Community, but continues to be "first among his brothers". This not only permits him to continue with his classes at the University, but it also allows him to be present at the different forums and encounters. He has also dedicated himself to writing: in the last year and a half he has published three books, the last one has as a suggested title "Pre-emptive Peace" a clear response to the so called "doctrine of pre-emptive war".
At the end of the meeting, we said our farewells with "Until Next Year!" Yes, until February 3, 2006, when we will meet again to recall, to thank, and to look ahead. What great things the Spirit does!
This, among others, are the beautiful experiences that Rome offers. To be here is to have the possibility of feeling, participating more directly and closely in the life of the Church and what is happening within it and in which each day the Spirit lives. I have it as a gift to share.
Translation: Celina M. Garza, Harlingen, Texas, USA