A significant meeting in Montserrat
On the weekend of March 22 and 23, about 400 monitors of the leisure centers of the Pere Tarrés Foundation gathered in the imposing Abbey of Montserrat to commemorate its millennial. This annual meeting, organized by the movement of Catalan Christian leisure centers, serves as a space for reflection and training for young people who guide children and adolescents in their educational leisure activities.
An inspirational motto: ‘What if …? We are the change! ‘
The day began in Esparreguera, specifically at the Taquígraf Garriga School, with the inauguration of the meeting under the slogan ‘And if …? We are the change! ‘ This phrase causes a deep reflection on the transformative power of educational leisure in today’s society. The participants explored topics such as education in times of ecological crisis, restorative conflict resolution and the importance of assertive communication.
Voices of change: Acknowledgments and reflections
Clara Quirante, Director General of Youth of the Generalitat de Catalunya, addressed the attendees to highlight the influence of young people as a ‘engine of social change’. Juan Jurado, the mayor of Esparreguera, emphasized the vital role that monitors play in guiding children in their learning process, emphasizing the importance of cultivating responsible adults against the threats of totalitarianism.
The impact of educational leisure
Anna Grau, President of the MCECC, thanked the organizing team for their dedication to preparing for the event. He recalled that every Saturday, dedicated young people work to provide children’s opportunities, contributing to the fight against social injustices. ‘The leisure is an experience that marks,’ he said, ‘once you are part of it, you never go out of your heart’.
Cultural activities and a memorable concert
The event also included performances by popular culture organizations, such as the Bastonera del Montserrat Colla, the Castellers d’Esparreguera and the Colla de Diables, who brought a local flavor to the meeting. In addition, the music group The Papa’s & The Popo’s encouraged the night with a concert designed especially for the monitors.
A leading role for the moon
The Esparreguera Moon Esplai Center played a key role in organizing the activities on Saturday morning, making it easier for the attendees to get to know the municipality and its traditions better.
A spiritual tanment and community
On Sunday 23, the meeting culminated in a walking route from Collbató to the Abbey of Montserrat, where a Eucharist was held with the presence of various councils. Prior Jordi Puigdevall hosted attendees, including families who joined the celebration. The day closed with a brotherhood lunch that strengthened the ties among all the participants.
