From Italy
Rome — Ascension Group
Since we were asked to share our thoughts on Insieme, we thought we'd start by introducing ourselves. We're Giulia and Benedetta, and we've recently joined the Ascension Group. What struck us most in those first meetings was the warmth and friendship that greeted us immediately. We didn't expect it would move us so deeply. After our two days together in Fiuggi with the group, we realized that this joy and love didn't fade when we returned to ordinary life. It stayed with us. What we learned at Fiuggi was this: spending time with handicapped young people doesn't mean living a separate life from the rest of us. Rather, it gives us the chance to think more deeply about ourselves. Being with them changes how we see things. We're convinced that as we keep meeting with the group, we'll grow closer still. And we hope to pass on to others everything they've given us. Giulia and Benedetta (Ascension Group)
Genoa
Dear friends, I read about you in the latest issue of "Progetto." I'm nineteen, a first-year medical student, and I've only recently moved to Genoa. For some time now I've been drawn to spirituality. I belong to the Ark, an ecumenical and nonviolent community founded by a Catholic, Lanza del Vasto, who was a disciple of Gandhi. I haven't yet committed myself to any real service work — partly because of doubts, partly because I never found the right place for it. But reading your article, I felt a desire to know you. It seemed to me, at least in theory, that your path and ours align. So I'd like to know how I might get in touch with your work here in Genoa, if that's possible. If not, please send me any information you can. Thank you. I look forward to hearing from you. To all of you, now and always: Peace, Strength, Joy. Marco Alessandrini
From Abroad
Luxembourg
The pilgrimage to Our Lady of Luxembourg brought us together as one Faith and Light family, joined by our friends from Bitburg, Germany. Nearly six hundred of us came — children, teenagers, handicapped young people, parents, friends, educators, helpers, priests, and chaplains from various institutions. We shared a powerful moment of prayer and communion. Sister Françoise Elisabeth Sholtes
Poland
26 May 1980 — Thank you for Insieme. I will have it translated. That's another way I use to make people know Faith and Light. As we await Easter '81, I remain united with you all in prayer and entrust you to the Madonna of Czestochowa. I still hope that one day we'll make a pilgrimage there together, to a place so dear to our hearts. I embrace you all with all my heart. Tereza Breza
Portugal
14 April 1980 — Faith and Light in Lisbon is going well, but I believe we must grow much further. As for the international pilgrimage to Lourdes at Easter '81, some of us are thinking of going. We'll need to save money for it. It's important, don't you agree? I embrace you with deep friendship in Faith and Light. M. Amelia Vaz Pinto