Intercongregation: A prophetic testimony that recovers what is essential.
In this formative meeting held on March 14, with the intervention full of experience and conviction of Fr. Alberto Ares SJ, the Daughters of Christ the King have deepened the meaning of intercongregation, recognizing that, although there is no pre-established “manual”, the path is made by walking, under the impulse of dynamic fidelity.
New Challenges: Beyond structures
The meeting revealed that the real challenge is “released availability.” In a context where traditional structures
They are no longer enough, intercongregational commitment requires reciprocity and real co-responsibility between institutions.
For this union to be fruitful, they stood out three fundamental pillars:
1. Transparency and flexibility: To adapt to new realities without rigidities.
2. Excited leadership: Able to spread hope in new projects.
3. Dynamic fidelity: That does not cling to the forms of the past, but brings the charisma to life in the present.
Intercongregation does not dilute our charism; On the contrary, it is a prophetic testimony that helps us strip away the accidental to recover the essential of our consecrated life.
10 Lessons learned:
From the shared experience, ten keys were synthesized that mark the direction of this intercongregational path:
- Multiplier effect: Together we go further than we would separately.
- A way of being Church: Reflection of synodality and ecclesial communion.
- The person at the center: Caring for the human being takes precedence over the structure.
- Charisma lights up: By sharing ourselves with others, our own identity shines brighter.
- Formalized commitment: Intercongregationality requires clear and serious institutional agreements.
- Overcome the “corralitos”: Break with isolationism and particular interests.
- Mixed model: Close collaboration between religious, professionals and volunteers.
- Quality management: Rigor and transparency are key to a good testimony.
- From welcoming to influencing: Not only welcoming, but transforming public reality.
- Humility in the process: The wisdom of knowing that we are “being born” as we walk.
