The 4th National Congress of the Apostleship of Prayer – Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network of Brazil was held from October 18-20, gathering nearly 500 participants, including priests, religious, and lay people representing more than 80 dioceses who are part of this mission in the country. The National Director of Brazil, Fr. Eliomar Ribeiro SJ, and the national team welcomed participants at the Spiritual Exercises House in Itaici, São Paulo.
The congress theme, “Humility and Meekness,” directly reflecting the characteristics of the Heart of Jesus – “Learn from me for I am meek and humble of heart” (Mt 11:29) – helped create an atmosphere of joy, deep spirituality, and fraternity throughout the gathering.
Also present were the International Director Fr. Frédéric Fornos SJ, International Vice-Directors Fr. Cristóbal Fones SJ and Bettina Raed, and the Director of Portugal and European Continental Coordinator Fr. Antonio Sant’Ana SJ. Fr. Fornos presented a talk titled: “The spirituality of the Sacred Heart of Jesus drives our mission of compassion for humanity”.
During the opening day of the Congress, the official letter of appointment of the International Vice-Director, Bettina Raed, was presented, signed by Cardinal Parolin, Secretary of State of the Vatican. It was also officially announced that the mission of Fr. Fornos sj would conclude in December of this year.
Following these announcements and the inaugural Mass, the congress program continued with talks, leisure time, shared meals, and Holy Mass. The current Jubilee of the Heart of Jesus provided a meaningful context for this Congress.
We give thanks to the Lord for all the blessings received during these days.