June 2009

President Niwano Visits Focolare Headquarters

On June 14, President Nichiko Niwano visited the headquarters of the Focolare Movement at Roca di Papa near Rome and conferred with the movement's president, Ms. Maria Voce. President Niwano said he greatly looked forward to welcoming her when she visits Rissho Kosei-kai's headquarters in Tokyo in January.

They then appeared before fifty Focolare headquarters staff members, Ms. Voce outlined the organization of the movement and explained the work of each section. Focolare officials in charge of youth groups, family affairs, social work, and cultural affairs reported on their activities.

After that, President Niwano attended a memorial Mass for Ms. Chiara Lubich, the movement's founder, who died on March 14, 2008. A memorial Mass is celebrated for her on the 14th of every month. Afterward President Niwano gave a speech in which he recalled the friendly ties between Ms. Lubich and Rissho Kosei-kai and said he would constantly endeavor to strengthen the strong friendship between the two organizations. He offered flowers before her grave in the headquarters chapel.

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