History and Charism

The Focolare Movement, founded in Trent, Italy, in 1943, is present today in 182 nations and reaches over 5 million people. Focolare means “hearth” or “family fireside.”

Chiara Lubich, together with a small group of friends, realized that God is the only ideal worth living for and as a result they focused their lives on the Gospel. Many others followed. Their goal became one of striving towards the fulfillment of Jesus’ prayer to the Father: “May they all be one” (Jn 17:21).

A spirituality of unity came to life and gave rise to a movement of spiritual and social renewal.

Areas of Outreach

Through its 18 branches and 6 mass movements the Focolare spirituality is having an impact on family life, the youth world and on all areas of ecclesial and secular life.

Developments

• 33 little cities throughout the world strive to be a sample of a society renewed by the Gospel message of unity. In the United States the little city Mariapolis Luminosa is located in Hyde Park, New York.

• The Abba School is an interdisciplinary study center for an elaboration of scholarly disciplines.

• The Economy of Communion in Freedom, based on a culture of giving, is an innovative economic proposal now encompassing close to 800 businesses in the world.

• The Movement for Unity in Politics, present in over 40 countries, is an association of politicians who, in unity across party lines, put the common good first.

• Over 1,000 social programs are active worldwide.

• 27 publishing houses produce books and magazines.

• Centers for the arts and media are inspired by “God as Beauty.”

Dialogues

Throughout the years fruitful dialogues have opened up: in the Catholic world, among individuals, groups, movements and associations, to contribute to the strengthening of unity; among Christians of different churches in order to work together towards full communion; among believers of different religions to foster universal brotherhood; and with people of good will with no religious affiliation to work together to safeguard human values such as freedom, respect for human rights, solidarity and peace.

In Brief

“The charism of unity which the Holy Spirit entrusted to the Focolare is a gift of light and love. Wherever it is received, it promotes a new lifestyle, the spirituality of unity, which brings about unity and universal brotherhood in the world. John Paul II, in his letter Novo Millennio Ineunte, proposed it to the entire Catholic Church referring to it as a ‘spirituality of communion.’ It is focused on a Gospel-based love which, when put into practice, revives individuals and communities, bringing a new spirit to every expression of life.”

Chiara Lubich upon receiving the honorary
citizenship of Milan, March 2004