On Sunday the 15^th October 2017, 18 associates and sisters of the communities of Arcueil and Villiers sur Marne, near Paris, came together for a very special day.

The day began with Mass in the parish of Arcueil, led by our group. At the moment of the homily the assembly welcomed the testimony of three associates, who spoke of :

• The story of how the group of associates came about
• “I came to have a look and …”
• Why I said “yes” …

At the offertory procession we carried up:

• A Bible
• The Rule of Life of the Congregation
• The Associates’ Reference Document
• A photo of Kermaria
• The bread and the wine

Not forgetting the collection! Each “sign” was accompanied by a vigil light and explained to the assembly.

 

The parishioners were agreeably surprised. They discovered another aspect of the community and at the end of Mass, their questions stimulated several discussions.

 

The meeting continued with lunch, preceded by an aperitif. During this time each one presented him- or herself by means of the “rope game”. The shared meal allowed us to continue to share with and get to know each other.

 

This coming together of “groups” has motivated us to meet up again all together, at Kermaria on the 7^th of April 2018 for the annual meeting of the associates.

 

It was a really special day

 

Philippe Bertrand – Associate