General Secretariat for Redemptorist Youth and Vocation Ministry

 

Preparatory Meeting
for Limerick 2007

(RYVM – 8-13 August 2007)

Limerick, Ireland – 25-28 June 2006

If we were to tell you that it does not rain in Ireland how much would you be prepared to bet?

Well from 25-28 June 2006 it did not rain in Ireland. Why, you ask? The answer is simple. All or almost all of those in charge of RYVM, young people and priests, met in Limerick city at the University Campus that will host the eighth meeting of the European Redemptorist Youth and Vocation Ministry.

These were busy days with plenty of work, prayer and especially fraternal sharing. The work entailed two main questions: the theme of the meeting and everything that could make this European gathering of the RYVM more effective.

During the months preceding the preparatory meeting those in charge of the RYVM in the provinces and regions of Europe were invited to propose a possible theme for the meeting. Various themes were suggested and then the Commission selected one: “Pazzo per Amore – Crazy for Love”. This expression is a recurring theme in the writings of St. Alphonsus. He uses it to indicate both the ‘craziness’ of Christ in the mysteries of the Incarnation, Passion and Resurrection and in reference to human beings who do not welcome this gratuitous love.

Some confreres with the help of various young people committed themselves to developing the theme by means of a booklet to be issued before and after the meeting as well as by a PowerPoint presentation, group discussions, workshops and probably leaflets during the meeting.

The organization of the meeting was then discussed, particularly items such as times of prayer for the different linguistic groups; morning workshops with group discussion; time for recreation and relaxation and opportunities for cultural exchanges and productions, not forgetting the savory delight of food!

In addition we had an opportunity to visit the University campus that is not only enormous but also very beautiful and must be seen to be believed. The accommodations were very comfortable, each person having their own room and a bathroom shared by three. The sports facilities are first class.

Perhaps the most beautiful part of our experience was the climate of peace, prayer and fraternity. But a final word before we close….we had scarcely gotten into the cars, headed for the Airport, on our way home, when the sun disappeared, black clouds darkened the horizon and a light soft rain began to fall!