October 26, 2012 (Romereports.com) Maria Voce is the president of the Focolare Movement. She is also the first successor of Chiara Lubich, who founded the movement back in 1943 in northern Italy.

Voce is actually taking on a special role in the Synod on the New Evangelization. She is participating not only as the President of this popular Catholic movement, but also as an auditor.

MARIA VOCE
President, Focolare Movement
“Taking part in the synod is very important. Here, we've seen that the Synod Fathers are appreciating more the role these movements have in the Church. In the field of the New Evangelization, they see our capacity in reviving  families, communities and the youth. It's really a gift from the Holy Spirit."

The fact that orders and congregations are an essential part of the Church is a given. But these new movements provide a different outlet and also a different perspective that can help make the New Evangelization a success.

MARIA VOCE
President, Focolare Movement
“Within the  Focolare Movement our main characteristic is unity. We feel the need to bear witness to the presence of Jesus whenever two or more people come together in His name. This brings the presence of Jesus into families,  communities and parishes. It's something that influences culture and even dialogue.”

And it's precisely that unity that Voce says  is at the core of the Focolare Movement.  She says the group wants to transmit that message to the modern world, especially now with the call for the New Evangelization.


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