On January 20-22, 2023, a group of representatives from the various branches of the Vincentian Family in Honduras gathered together in San Pedro Sula to participate in a Systemic Change Workshop that was offered by the Commission responsible for this work in the Americas. Present were representatives of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in San Pedro Sula and Puerto Cortés, the International Association of Charity, the Association of the Miraculous Medal in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa, the National President of the Vincentian Marian Youth, Daughters of Charity, a Sister of Charity, a member of the Congregation of the Mission and workers at the program Amigos para Siempre (Friends Forever) which functions in Barrio Suncery (San Pedro Sula).

The animator of this gathering, Edgardo Fuentes (Society of Saint Vincent de Paul) communicated the joy of being able to have this in-person meeting of the Vincentian Family in Honduras … something that had not happened for quite some time as a result of the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The work began on the night of January 20th with a presentation by César Ramírez (Colombia) which outlined the primary objective of systemic change. The following day, another presentation was offered by James Claffey (United States, representative of the Congregation of the Mission at the United Nations) who spoke about the fundamental pillars of systemic change: Vincentian spirituality and the Social Doctrine of the Church. During a dynamic that was animated by Argelys Vega (Panama), the participants learned about collaboration and shared work. Olimpia Dino (Dominican Republic) then spoke with the group about Justice and Human Rights. Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning were dedicated to meetings among the members of the various branches of the Family. This provided the groups with an opportunity to analyze their situation and share their concerns. These concerns were then shared with the whole group and a work plan was developed that will allow to move forward in our activity in Honduras.

On Sunday, the group went to church in Colonia San Vicente where members of the Congregation of the Mission celebrated the Eucharist. In addition to the parishioners and the participants in the Systemic Change Workshop, the workers and clients of OSOVI (which is near the parish church) were also present at this celebration. After sharing some food and some photographs, we returned to our homes with the commitment to continue to form ourselves in this important theme of systemic change. We also made a commitment to deepen the collaboration among the branches of the Vincentian Family present in Honduras. Finally, we must say that there was great joy in being able to gather together and bathe in the joy and unity of knowing that we also have a part to play in our shared mission.

Juan Enrique Hernansanz, C. M.
Fuente: http://misionerospaules.org/