Focolare Movement

The Focolare Movement, present in 182 nations, has the features of a large and varied family. It began in 1943, during the Second World War, as a movement of spiritual and social renewal. ‘A new people born from the Gospel,’ is how it was defined by its foundress, Chiara Lubich (1920-2008). The Focolare Movement, officially known as the Work of Mary, was approved by the Catholic Church in 1962.

Its purpose is to work cooperatively to build a more united world, following the inspiration of Jesus’ prayer to the Father “May they all be one” (John 17:21), respecting and valuing diversity. Members of the Movement engage in various forms of dialogue and are committed to building bridges of fraternal relationships among individuals between cultural groups, and in every area of society.

Persons of every age, vocation, religion, conviction and culture belong to the Focolare. In addition, there are small communities of men and women who have consecrated their lives to God with vows of poverty, chastity and obedience and who live together in separate households.

For more information, please visit their website, or contact Rt. Rev. Alexei Smith at frarsmith@la-archdiocese.org to be connected with a local Focolare contact.

Website for USA & Canada: www.focolare.org/usa/