During the formation session at the most recent Assembly of the LMC of Portugal, held on October 10 and 11, we were invited to reflect briefly on the letter from the General of the Comboni Missionaries to the Italian CLM..
This reflection challenged us to deepen our commitment to the mission: not merely to collaborate, but to assume—with maturity and a sense of belonging—the responsibility to build it together, as the Church.
The reflection was illuminated by the Gospel of John (Jn 15:1–7), which led us to look at the vineyard and the work of the Vineyard Owner.
God prunes the branches—both the good and the bad—so that the vine may bear more fruit. In the life of ecclesial movements, too, there are moments when vitality seems to wane. But can we look beyond what we see today and recognize what God may be preparing?
This perspective invites us to renew our willingness, to take on responsibilities, and to allow the Holy Spirit to continue to be the Lord of this wonderful story.
This story, which is becoming increasingly international, is also built by our families (so often through imperceptible gestures and sacrifices) and transforms the way we live at work, at home, and in society—all the more as we draw closer to Christ!
Remaining united to Christ, we trust that God continues to act in our lives and to open ever-new paths for the mission.
It remains for us to thank Fr. Luigi Codianni, who, through this letter, has helped us look more deeply at our reality and renew our commitment to being, together, ever more co-responsible for the mission.
Pedro Moreira, CLM Portugal
