The third day of the meeting in preparation for the jubilee of consecrated life began with the Eucharistic celebration in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart presided by Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, Prefect of DIVCSVA. During the homily he reiterated the importance of an authentic testimony to the Gospel for consecrated life, without being attracted by the mentality of the world. The cardinal shared what he had experienced in recent days: the reflections and time of sharing highlighted how the enthusiasm of consecrated people for the mission of announcing the Gospel nourishes faith and revives hope.
The participants were then divided into linguistic groups to set out on the trail of the Christianity that inhabits the city of Rome, in its artistic works enriched by the profound testimony of the first Christians.
“Walking with the strength of faith”, the theme of the day, was experienced on a pilgrimage along three stages: the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and Santa Prassede, the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme and the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Scala Santa, the catacombs of San Sebastiano and the church of "Domine quo vadis". Each stage concluded with the testimony of a consecrated man or woman on the joy of giving one's life to the Lord, on the suffering of the cross experienced as a reason for hope and on perseverance in faith on every occasion and service.
The intense day ended with the prayer for peace in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Peace! A gift that consecrated people insistently ask the Lord, in this difficult moment due to the numerous conflicts present in the world.