Embracing Unity

My Experience at the Lay Congress in Rome: A Reflection from Maryellen Harrington, Director of Lay Engagement

I recently had the privilege of attending the Lay Congress at the Augustinianum Patristic Institute in Rome. This remarkable event brought together 100 participants from around the globe, each representing different countries and sharing unique initiatives and experiences of the global lay members of the Order of Saint Augustine.

The Congress's primary purpose was to create a platform for representatives from various cultures to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the rich diversity within the Augustinian Lay community. Throughout the event, we engaged in discussions and shared stories that highlighted how the Augustinian charisms animate our communities worldwide.

One of the highlights of the Congress was a powerful presentation that left a lasting impression on me by Fr. Alexander Lam Alania O.S.A. Fr. Alex drew a comparison between our gathering and the biblical story of Moses and the burning bush. He stated, "When we engage in dialogue with others, we have to do it like Moses at the burning bush, taking off his sandals because he was on holy ground. When we engage in listening, we are coming to holy ground." This analogy resonated deeply, reminding me of the sacredness of our interactions and the importance of approaching each conversation with humility and reverence.

Throughout the Congress, we explored how the principles of Christian community and love are expressed in various cultural contexts. We heard from participants who shared inspiring stories of how they live out the Augustinian Charisms daily through community service, educational initiatives, devotional practices, or fostering a sense of unity and belonging within their local parishes.

The Lay Congress also provided an opportunity for us to reflect on our own spiritual journeys and consider how we can contribute to the broader mission of the Order of Saint Augustine. Through workshops, shared prayer and meals, and informal conversations, we deepened our understanding of the Augustinian spiritual heritage and discovered new ways to apply these timeless principles in our modern world. 

As I return home, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the global Augustinian community. The Lay Congress in Rome was a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty that comes from embracing our shared values and learning from one another. It reinforced the idea that, despite our differences, we are all united by a common mission to live out Saint Augustine's teachings and positively impact the world.

I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this extraordinary event and look forward to continuing the journey of faith, service, and community alongside my fellow Augustinians from around the globe.