A singular finding to Tiana
On March 8, the Maria Immaculada de Tiana Spirituality House hosted a special event that brought together about 12 deacons from the Archdiocese of Barcelona and 10 candidates, some accompanied by their partners. This Lent recess, organized by the delegation of the clergy-Diaques, was a time for reflection and spiritual growth.
Frame reflections on Aliguer
The priest Marc Aliguer, rector of Santa Tecla de Barcelona, guided the session with the theme ‘Grow in hope; Living in communion ‘. His reflection emphasized the importance of understanding Lent not only as a period of preparation, but as an opportunity to live the present with hope.
One conversion to the other
Aliguer urged attendees to find a conversion that is based on relationships with others, emphasizing that human experience connects us with God. He argued that “all circumstances are opportunities to approach the divinity” and that the reality that surrounds us is essential for our spiritual growth.
Demitifying Lent
The rector addressed two common aspects that often hinder Lenten Lenten: skepticism and nervousness. He warned that the negative perception of this period can lead to a feeling of loneliness, where proposals for Lent become more than a source of inspiration.
The humanity of Jesus
With a philosophical and humanist approach, Aliguer claimed the importance of recognizing Jesus’ humanity. He stated that ‘when we idealize the figure of Christ, the gospel loses his ability to surprise’ and urged him to see him as a being who shares our reality.
Moments of reflection and communion
The recess included time of silence for personal reflection, liturgical celebrations and fraternal lunches, encouraging the exchange of ideas and experiences among the attendees. In the Mass homily, Aliguer emphasized the difference between ‘contact’ and ‘relationship’, highlighting the importance of human bonds.
Building authentic bonds
He warned of the current tendency of isolation, emphasizing the need to cultivate deep relationships that go beyond simple contact. Aliguer invited each participant to explore their lives to identify what paralyzes them and what can be rehabilitated.
A message of hope
The auxiliary bishop of Barcelona, Javier Vilanova, closed the event with an animation message to seek God in everyday experiences. He recalled the importance of continuous training for deacons and aspirants, as well as the family dimension that these encounters encourage.
The vitality of the church
Vilanova concluded with a reflection on the vitality of the Church, emphasizing that “God keeps the community alive through the dedication of the deacons and the active participation of all”. This recess was not only a time of reflection, but also an opportunity to strengthen the ties between members of the community.