Lambaré, Paraguay. On Pentecost Sunday (May 27th) the Parish of San Bautista de Lambaré, led by the Claretian Missionaries, celebrated their first Encounter of Families.
The celebration coincided with preparations for the World Encounter of Families (Milan, May 30 – June 3), but overall was a response to the objectives of the Paraguayan Church which declared 2012 as the “Year of the Family”, framed within the “Continental Permanent Mission” proclaimed by the Latin American Episcopal Conference (CELAM).
It had the support of the Christian Family Movement (MFC), which enthusiastically welcomed this initiative and devoted itself fully to the preparation, organization and holding of the event.
Some 80 married couples with their families fully participated in the event. The pastor, Fr. José Luis de la Torre, CMF hosted the reception, gave the opening welcome, and presided at the eucharistic celebration. Afterwards there were various activities for children, youth, and married couples, all celebrated in a joyful atmosphere; as well as reflection, prayer, and a teaching on deepening the values of faith lived within a family atmosphere.
To conclude the meeting, they shared a cake, sign of the fraternity and gratitude for everything that had lived and learned.
