“All the believers were one in heart and mind”

Acts 4:32

Dear friends in the Lord!

We would like to share the joy of our meeting during the annual summer seminar, which this year was exceptionally combined with the celebration of the 40th anniversary of Poland’s affiliation with the CLC World Community.

Each year, we select a central theme for the seminar, around which the formation content is structured. This year, we chose to focus on the vocation of the laity and their mission. It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the past 40 years—on the richness we bring—and to attempt to answer the question of how we can grow in today’s world. In the sharing groups, a common theme emerged: following Christ in the world, within every possible environment. This bore witness to the maturity of the Community, united around One Center and enlivened by One Spirit. We were greatly encouraged by the fact that we are walking together in the same direction—experiencing both highs and lows, and sometimes uncertainty, but always placing our trust in the Lord. We wanted to make it possible for members of our Community who could join remotely to participate in the seminar. Therefore, all the talks were streamed, and there was one online sharing group.

The meeting also brought together new members from the youngest local communities across the country—a source of true joy for the Community. Solving a quiz together at the end of the first day fostered a spirit of teamwork among us. The beautiful grounds of the retreat house where we stayed encouraged us to go for walks and conversations. We hope that the time spent together will help us plan future visits, allowing us to experience the gift of each other’s presence, the diversity of individuals, the richness of talents, and the value of listening and support.

We had the opportunity to reflect on the beginnings of the CLC in Poland by listening to those who have served as presidents. The experience of continuity and generous dedication to this mission demonstrated how important the service of each member is, right where they are. These events have been commemorated in a book describing the 40 years of the Polish CLC’s membership in the World Community—a tangible fruit of labor for the entire National Community. A concert by Neshka, from CLC in led us into the celebration; the lyrics flowed from the heart, born of personal prayer. Throughout the seminar, we also admired an exhibition of icons. During these days, we have witnessed the wealth of talents with which so many people are gifted —talents that have flourished in the service of others.

Our community was deeply moved by the World Community’s concern, solidarity, and support. The letter was received as a long-awaited message from a family member. The anniversary message, read by Manuel Martínez, World Executive Secretary, contained not only congratulations but, above all, outlined directions for development based on an accurate assessment of the conditions and trends in Polish society. Despite current challenges—such as engaging young people, secularization, the role of the elderly, and issues regarding communication and collaboration—the letter was imbued with an inspiring sense of hope that encouraged us to engage in personal reflection and to develop creative responses.

Comparing the community to a tent has shown us that the tension so often experienced in various areas of life is a phenomenon that typically accompanies following the Lord to the places where He calls us in our daily lives. Thus, the DSSE process— a CLC’s lifestyle—is an integral part of an attitude of vigilance, enabling us to keep our eyes fixed on Christ and to participate in His mission in everyday life.

During the seminar’s panel discussion, it was evident just how deeply the content of the message had moved us. Among those actively participating in the panel discussion were our guests and long-time collaborators: Fr. Zbigniew Leczkowski SJ and Fr. Mateusz Janyga SJ (superiors of the two Polish provinces of the Society of Jesus), as well as National Ecclesiastical Assistant Fr. Adam Tomaszewski SJ. We didn’t shy away from challenging topics such as collaboration and reaching beyond the boundaries of our basic and local communities. Believing that the dialogue we have initiated—based on mutual listening and attentiveness—will bear abundant fruit. We entrusted all these matters to the Lord, knowing that consensus in the future is possible only with Him.

The presence of Local Ecclesiastical Assistants from Warsaw, Poznan, Cracow, and the Tricity agglomeration served as confirmation that we are walking together on the same path while respecting each other’s individual missions. The attendance of Fr. Artur Wenner SJ—who had previously served as National Vice-Ecclesiastical Assistant —at the jubilee celebration was an example of long-standing cooperation and friendship.

Many people attended the summer seminar for the first time—an event that was very significant this year. Below, we present some of their testimonies:

“This year’s CLC jubilee seminar was my first, and it left me with many wonderful experiences. I met people from all over Poland, gained a better understanding of the history of the CLC, and discovered new aspects of the commitment shown by people I have known for some time. It was also a valuable experience to feel a sense of connection with the National and World Communities, as well as to enjoy the rich program—from an icon exhibition and a concert to shared fun, conversations, and meals. I return from this seminar feeling strengthened, fulfilled, and with an even deeper sense of belonging to the community”. (Kinga from Warsaw)

“Gaining insight into the perspective of the World Community was valuable to me, and I was moved by the comparison of the CLC to a tent. It resonated deeply with what we are discerning in our local community, while simultaneously shedding new light on things and inspiring us to further discover our apostolic vocation”. (Agnieszka from Torun)

“Our summer seminar was an opportunity for me to encounter God, who is active in our midst “here and now,” as well as throughout the history of the CLC. It was also an experience of joy shared in community, of building relationships, and of getting to know people from communities all over Poland.

Praise the Lord for these creative and fruitful days, filled with encounters, inspiration, and His presence!” (Emilia from Poznan)

We began each day of the seminar with personal prayer during adoration, remained in gratitude during the Eucharist, and enjoyed each other’s company during evening conversations and shared tasks. May this experience of our journey together—along with the vision of new horizons and the richness found in a Community that remains close to the Lord—strengthen us in our daily lives!

Written by Julia Ostrowska, Eurolink CLC in Poland