Who we are

Growth within a community:

From the very beginning of the Focolare Movement, it was understood that the whole community should be involvedin the formation of young people. The community is a “family” composed of persons of all ages who enrich one another through their interactions and shared lifestyle.

There are many beautiful examples worldwide of persons within Focolare communities who have taken upon themselves the “sufferings” and “difficulties” of the children around them, demonstrating that Jesus’ words are alive and valid for us today too:  “Let the children come to me “(Mt 19:14).

Educators:

In the local Focolare communities, there is need of persons who are specifically dedicated to the very delicate task of guiding children and being more directly involved in their life journey. These persons carry out programs and activities both for the Gen 4 and also for all the other children who participate in various activities of the Movement.

These educators – called Gen 4 “assistants” – are persons living the Focolare spirituality and are entrusted with the formation of children.

They should:

  • Be adequately prepared (see the EduxEdu project – “Educate yourself to be able to educate” focolare.org) so that they foster dialogue with, and among, children in order to help them grow in self-knowledge and in their relationship with God and with others;
  • Share with parents the content and objectives of the various activities, through periodic parental meetings or through other means.

The protection of minors:

All educators and other collaborators involved in activities for minors are required to fully understand, respect and commit themselves to adhering to the official directives outlined in the Focolare Movement’s guidelines, including those at the local and regional level, with regard to ensuring a safe environment for all minors. For the Focolare Movement document entitled “Policy for the Promotion of the Wellbeing and Protection of minors and vulnerable persons” click here