Chilenos to Home

Our winter crew from the Manquehue Apostolic Movement are returning home this week, after another active season working in our community. The group has continued to develop our lectio program, working with students and our new parents group. Led by returning members Raimundo Zunino and Matias Echeverria, the crew celebrated recently the conclusion of their work with a “Lectio Party.” Together with Pedro Vega, Ramon Gimeno, and Renato van de Wyngard, these Chilenos have been a source of light and warmth in our winter term. Posted on the door of the guesthouse where they have been residing has been the sign, “Today is Easter,” a message derived from a story from Gregory the Great of Saint Benedict and the monk Romanus, who offers assistance to Benedict during his time at Subiaco, both strengthened by their fellowship. Though their departure is indeed a piece of Lent for us, we thank them for their Easter presence throughout this winter. A group of nine student leaders is making a trip to Chile this week, traveling to Santiago to see firsthand how the Manquehue community lives its faith. Included in this journey will be a trip down to the San José center in Patagonia, a remote and pristine location utilized by the movement for many of its retreats. We pray for their safe journey and spiritual inspiration in these efforts!