A significant reunion in Montserrat
Last Saturday, March 8, Montserrat hosted more than 250 lay and secular ones from the ten dioceses of Catalonia, all gathered by the 10th day of the secular apostolate. This event was an opportunity to reflect on the role of believers in today’s society.
A deep reflection on the laical mission
The day began with an inspirational paper by Montserrat Esquerda, a pediatrician and dean of the Blanquerna-URL Faculty of Health Sciences. Esquerda proposed an analysis of the laity’s role as agents of change in a world with increasing inequalities, stating that ‘the Christian Christian is not a simple viewer, but a sailor who seeks his compass in Christ.’
Working groups to identify the challenges
After the conference, attendees were divided into groups to discuss the challenges facing their daily lives as laity. This interaction facilitated an enriching dialogue on how they can contribute to society.
A eucharistic celebration with inclusive message
The day culminated in a mass in the Basilica of Santa Maria, where several bishops participated, including Xabier Gómez de Sant Feliu de Llobregat, Sergi Gordo de Tortosa, Octavi Vilà de Girona, and Jacques Mourad de Homs, Syria.
A message of mood and gratitude
In his homily, Bishop Gómez emphasized the importance of lay people in the dissemination of the gospel message, emphasizing that ‘you are the ones who arrive where the voice of the shepherds cannot’. He also expressed his thanks to women, coinciding with International Women’s Day, recognizing their labor and social struggles.
Celebration of community and solidarity
The day concluded with a fraternal meal, a time to share experiences and strengthen the ties between lay people from different dioceses. This reunion was celebrated as a great opportunity to unite voices and efforts in the construction of a more just and supportive society.
