Under the theme “The Incarnation Comes to Life in Every Culture,” the Latin American Incarnation Family Gathering took place on June 20 and 21. The event brought together nearly 35 participants from the communities of Mulchén, Santiago, and Ancud, as well as friends of the charism. These two days were marked by formation, prayer, fraternal fellowship, and the joy of sharing life, a common charism, and a common source.
The activities took place at the El Pilar Foundation Boarding School in Ancud, where we were warmly welcomed by the women in charge of the facility and the “Friends of the Charism” community, who created a welcoming space for us to experience this gathering in an atmosphere of fellowship and celebration.
One of the highlights was the talk given by Fr. Xulio Ruiz, Regional Superior of the Sons of Mary Immaculate for the Venezuela Region, who participated virtually with a presentation titled “Jesus, 100% Man.” Through a profound and personal reflection, he invited attendees to contemplate the humanity of Jesus as a path to understanding our own Christian vocation. His words sparked an enriching dialogue that allowed participants to examine, from the perspective of faith, the way in which each person lives out and bears witness to the Gospel in their daily lives. Subsequently, sociologist Pedro Adrians presented the talk “Chiloé: Sociopastoral Challenges in Light of Who We Are and How We Are Changing,” (marking the 200th anniversary of the annexation of the Chiloé archipelago to Chile, as it had previously belonged to the Kingdom of Spain), offering an analysis of the archipelago’s cultural, social, and pastoral reality. His presentation helped us recognize how evangelization has been embodied in the history of our communities and what challenges today invite us to continue proclaiming the Gospel with creativity, closeness, and hope.
The gathering was also marked by profound moments of personal and communal prayer, opportunities for fraternal dialogue, and the celebration of the Eucharist at Ancud Cathedral, where participants gave thanks to God for the 20-year journey they have undertaken as the Family of the Incarnation.
THE PRESENTATIONS BY EACH COMMUNITY were an uplifting and energizing experience; during these sessions, the groups shared their history, their mission, and the specific ways in which they live out the charism of the Incarnation in their respective communities. These testimonies revealed the richness of a spirituality that comes to life in diverse contexts yet maintains the same spirit of communion and service.
Special mention should be made of the participation of nine students from Liceo El Pilar, who, with their enthusiasm, simplicity, and commitment, enriched the event with a youthful and hopeful perspective. Their presence served as a reminder that the charism of the Incarnation continues to find new faces and new generations willing to live out the Gospel. Also participating was Fr. Heinz Escorche, Superior General of the Sons of Mary Immaculate, who, joining us virtually, offered us his company and a warm greeting from France with great joy and encouragement.
This gathering held special significance, as it marked the conclusion of the Jubilee celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Family of the Incarnation. It was an opportunity to give thanks for the journey we have taken, to acknowledge God’s work over these two decades, and to renew our commitment to continue making the mystery of the Incarnation present in the various contexts where each member carries out their mission.
Finally, the Incarnation Family of Chile extends special thanks to the community of Ancud for its warm welcome; to the Ursuline Sisters, for faithfully preserving and passing on this beautiful charism; to the speakers who generously shared their knowledge and experiences; and to all those who, through their quiet and dedicated service, made this gathering possible.
With hearts full of gratitude and hope, the participants returned to their communities convinced that the challenge remains the same: to bring the mystery of the Incarnation to life wherever the Lord sends them, by being a close, fraternal presence committed to the reality of each culture and each person. Thank you.