Ten years ago, the work of forming couples’ teams that operate according to the pillars of Regnum Christi began. Father Alberto Puértolas, L.C., explains that this activity focuses on the concrete needs of couples in their own reality.
The Communications Office of the Chile territory has interviewed Father Alberto Puértolas, L.C., about the pastoral care of marriage and family in Regnum Christi, the current challenges faced by these two human and social institutions, and above all, how there must be an “attitude of listening to the Holy Spirit.”
What specific aspects were highlighted regarding the importance of marriage and family in the movement at the General Convention, and how was the approach decided?
As Regnum Christi, following the Church, we observe the impulse of the Spirit that seems to be blowing throughout the ecclesial reality, encouraging how we want to make it more present in society through marriage and family.
How pastoral plans should be decided in the Church: in an attitude of listening to the Holy Spirit.
What are the main challenges currently facing marriage and family?
I would say the same as always. Discovering the hidden treasure in God’s plan for this precious reality, called to be a living sign of God’s love, to make present how God loves. If it seems there is more darkness, it is more called to shine the light.
How are the conclusions of the convention being implemented in the Chile territory?
The Spirit blows and gradually encourages the hearts of people. It is not strategy or human means. Plans always come after listening to the Spirit. My perception is that at the Convention, only what the Spirit has been inspiring has been gathered, both in our territory and elsewhere.
What specific activities or programs have been developed in Chile to strengthen the pastoral care of marriage and family?
Ten years ago, we began forming couples’ teams that operate according to the pillars of Regnum Christi. We have discovered the methodology from our own spirituality and from the concrete needs of couples in their current life reality. It is achieving the focus on their own marriage. A year ago, we also started offering a weekend activity that helps them discover and deepen the beauty of God’s plan for marriage. We have observed a qualitative turning point for the more than 100 couples who have already participated. After this experience, we send them a monthly capsule with a couple’s work proposal that each couple does individually, which is also helping a lot.
Are there any testimonies or examples of how these initiatives have positively impacted families in Chile?
Our Lord Jesus Christ has shown us in the Gospel how the Kingdom grows. Not spectacularly, in numbers or large events. In a hidden, silent… and real way at the same time. I am blessed to have received precious testimonies from many couples confirming how Jesus is growing, reigning in their marriage, family, and lives.
How are members of the movement being trained to work with couples and families?
They are training themselves, taking responsibility to carry out the mission from each specific activity. The mission belongs to couples, for couples. The priests work hand in hand with couples, contributing from our specific mission.
As Regnum Christi, we are beginning to develop the spirituality of marriage. First is life. Observation and reflection will support the path.
What are the short-term and long-term goals for the pastoral care of marriage and family?
Whatever the Lord continues to inspire us. Looking at these brief years passed, it seems to me that the Lord has planted the seed in the hearts of many people in Regnum Christi, and we are already beginning to see the fruits of God’s Kingdom, in the holiness of marriages. He will mark the times. It is up to us to try to be faithful.
What new initiatives or projects are planned for the future in this area?
Everything is becoming new. God is the most creative. He will tell us.
