Playing an important role in the spiritual formation of individuals and communities, religious congresses bring the faithful together around central themes of the faith.
A space for encounter, reflection and renewal, these congresses are thus vital tools for strengthening spirituality, promoting unity and inspiring concrete action.
Based on a long tradition of meetings and synods in the history of religions, especially Christianity, religious congresses are platforms for exchanging ideas, deepening faith and making important decisions for religious life. In the contemporary world, these events continue to be relevant, adapting to the needs and challenges of each age.
Providing participants with the opportunity to disconnect from the daily routine and immerse themselves in an atmosphere of spiritual reflection, the combination of talks, moments of prayer, workshops and community celebrations creates a space conducive to personal and community growth. On the other hand, contact with religious leaders, theologians and other experts allows participants to broaden their vision and understanding of religious teachings, so that they can reflect on how to apply them in their lives.
Spiritual formation and personal development
Spiritual formation is an ongoing process that involves deepening one’s relationship with God and living out religious principles in everyday life, so religious congresses are privileged moments for this development. During these meetings, the faithful are invited to renew their faith, re-evaluate their practices and find new ways of living their spirituality.
Addressing fundamental themes for the spiritual life, such as prayer, ethics, the evangelising mission and the role of religion in society, participants are invited to reflect on their own spiritual journey and consider new perspectives and practices that can enrich their faith. On the other hand, these are also moments to discover concrete examples of how religious principles can be applied in everyday life, helping participants to develop a more robust and integrated spirituality, which is then reflected in their daily actions and decisions.
Sense of community
One of the most important features of religious congresses is undoubtedly the strengthening of unity among the faithful. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, cultures and realities, these meetings create a sense of belonging and communion, as they allow people to share experiences of faith. In a world where individualism and fragmentation are becoming increasingly important, the exchange of experiences between participants enriches the event and broadens everyone’s vision of the universality of faith.
More than meetings of faith, religious congresses are moments of profound spiritual formation, renewal and transformation, which offer the opportunity to grow in relationship with God, strengthening community ties.
International Congress of Mary Help of Christians: spiritual formation for the Salesian Family
The IX International Congress of Mary Help of Christians, which will take place in Fatima from 29 August to 1 September 2024, is a crucial moment for the spiritual formation of the Salesian Family. Bringing together members from different countries and regions around devotion to Our Lady Help of Christians, patron saint of Salesian work, this meeting is a unique opportunity to renew and revitalise the values of the Salesian charism – especially faith, hope and love dedicated to the education and evangelisation of young people.
As well as fostering a deep sense of unity and belonging, the Congress offers moments of prayer, reflection and sharing of experiences, strengthening individual and collective spirituality. The members of the Salesian Family thus find inspiration and guidance to live their mission more fully, always guided by the example of Mary Help of Christians, who assists and protects Christians on their journey of faith and service.
