Krzydlina Mala, Poland. The Claretian Renewal Days of the Province of Polska took place from 24 to 27 April 2023 at the Claretian Spirituality Centre in Krzydlina Mala, Poland. The gathering was led by Father Carlos Sánchez, CMF, General Prefect of Spirituality and Community Life, and brought together almost all the Claretians of Poland.  The renewal gathering was attended by 45 participants including Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, the Superior General, who is conducting the General Canonical Visit and  missionaries from the Province in Burkina Faso, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic. 

With the theme: “Missionaries rooted and bold like Claret”, Father Carlos delved into the meaning of the “Definition of the Missionary” (Aut 494), starting with the historical and theological level and then dividing it into three parts, relating it to the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. Four lectures were given each day, followed by group work. This meeting is the first to be held since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic.

Father Carlos’ talks were broadcasted on YouTube for Claretians who could not attend in person, mainly from Russia and Belarus. During the day, participants also experienced different forms of evening prayer.

On the last day, theology students prepared and carried out the ‘Via Lucis‘, which consists of 14 stations in which the Paschal events are listened to and meditated upon, starting with the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The concluding of the gathering was marked by the Holy Mass presided over by the Claretian Monsignor Jacek Kicinski, the Auxiliary Bishop of Wrocław.

This renewal gathering strengthened ties among Claretians and deepened their commitment and mission as rooted and bold missionaries, following the example of St. Anthony Mary Claret.

The Province of Polska

The presence of Claretians include communities in various countries: Poland, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Russia, and Ukraine.