On Thursday 19 February, friends old and new gathered in Roby for an evening of thanksgiving for the presence of the Focolare in Liverpool. 

After six decades in the city, the Liverpool women’s community house is closing, but the life of the Focolare in the region remains vibrant and hopeful. Archbishop John Sherrington celebrated a thanksgiving Mass for the Focolare, with some of those present sharing what the spirituality meant to them. 

The atmosphere was one of joy and celebration. Some guests had never been to the house before, and stories of discovery were shared over a feast of food prepared by all. Our ecumenical family was well-represented, including Methodist, Baptist, Anglican, and Coptic Orthodox friends. Attendees appreciated the beautiful music, food, and friendship shared, to which so many had contributed, including the young people. 

Diane Williams represented all members present by sharing her experience of renewal in all areas of her life, through meeting the Focolare, by discovering how to live out the Gospel in daily life. 

While some tears were shed, the local communities in Liverpool and across the north west will continue carrying the torch for unity, building for the future together. 
An attendee commented after the event: 

“During Mass, Archbishop John Sherrington spoke with much appreciation and encouragement of the Focolare community. An early video took us back to the roots of the charism, the first Focolare established in the city (and indeed Great Britian, and those founding days of ecumenism in Liverpool, so full of hope and new life.” 

“As the Focolare house is closing, the local community feels strong enough to keep the charism alive locally by remaining united in mutual love and trusting in Jesus to lead us. Uncharted territory in some ways, and we’re taking it step by step. ‘Behold I make all things new’!” 

For more information about Focolare events and Word of Life meetings in your area, please contact: Christine Ashley: 07731 342 445 (also on WhatsApp) or Loretta Hegarty rettahegarty@googlemail.com