Chiara Lubich's visit to the UK
June 2004

In June this year, Chiara Lubich, Founder and President of the Focolare Movement - and organisation with a membership of approximately 2 million people worldwide - visited the UK. The key focus of her work and that of the Focolare is to foster unity and dialogue at all levels - and especially in fields of ecumenism, interfaith relations, economics and politics.

Chiara Lubich was invited to London to deliver a lecture as part of the major series hosted by St Mary's College, Strawberry Hill (University of Surrey). During her week-long stay she met privately with Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor and Archbishop Rowan Williams. Her address to an open meeting in Westminster Central Hall on Saturday, 19th June, 'Imagine a world enriched by diversity', had a strong interfaith message and highlighted the contribution religions make to a harmonious civil society.

She also addressed parliamentarians on Tuesday, 22 June. Following a private meeting with the Speaker of the House of Commons at 5pm on that evening, a reception was hosted by a cross-Party group of MPs and Peers from 6-7.30pm during which Chiara Lubich gave a short address on the theme of 'Liberty, Equality...what happened to Fraternity?' and answered questions. Chiara Lubich's appeal to foster a spirit of collaboration and dialogue amongst politicians for a greater common good would inspire and resonate with many in the Palace of Westminster.

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Chiara Lubich's Visit - Events

June 16th - 'Ecclesial Movements and the Marian Profile of the Church' Lecture at St Mary's College, Strawberry Hill, London

June 19th - 'Imagine a World Enriched by Diversity' Day Event, Central Hall, Westminster, London

June 22nd - 'Liberty, Equality...what happened to Fraternity?' Meeting with MPs and Peers at the Palace of Westminster

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