This 2nd day of the meeting began in an atmosphere of recollection. In the morning, the participants entered the mysterious bowels of the Brésillac Center to meditate on the theme of “Our experience of our founders and charism today”. The personal reflection was guided by this fundamental question: Who are the founders for me, in my history? This was followed by a moment of sharing in small groups. The sharing revealed extraordinary experiences of the presence of Brésillac and Planque in the lives of others. 

Most found in our founders, qualities of guide, missionary model, inspirer, intercessor, comforter in times of difficulty and confusion, and many others.

In the afternoon, Father François du Penhoat, Superior of the Province of Lyon, gave a presentation on the theme “What do we mean by charism? In his presentation, he emphasized that charism is a gift that “must be received and praised. The charism constitutes the essence of the identity of an institute. It is only through one’s own identity that one can truly achieve communion with others.

The truth is that “if those who are part of an organization are not aware of their collective identity, their corporate purpose, or their mission, it is easy to see problems of disorientation, fragmentation, and division appear. Identity is therefore a fundamental issue in the life of any institution or person. It refers to the truth, the purpose of things, and the concrete reality of a person or an organization.

Furthermore, identity is a unifying factor. It is a point of convergence for all members of the organization. It also guarantees the stability of the organization. It connects the past, the present and the future, thus ensuring the continuity of the organization.

Pierre-Paul DOSSEKPLI