Fifteen people of diverse backgrounds joined with Sr. Rosemarie Abate HVM  at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Detroit on October 9, 2021,  to reflect on Fratelli Tutti, the encyclical issued by Pope Francis in 2020 on loving and openness to all brothers and sisters regardless of nation or circumstance. 

Fratelli Tutti is at once both simple and profound.  It speaks to the day-to-day realities of our modern world.   It calls to action people and their institutions on diverse topics covering immigration, politics, justice, mercy, religion and interpersonal dialogue.  It points to Fraternal love and Social Friendship as the way to build better, more just and peaceful societies worldwide. 

Abdual Salam Lahawl of Sienna Literacy Center was keynote speaker.  Fluent in 4 languages and father of 7 beautiful children, Abudual shared his world-spanning life journey that led him to his abiding acceptance of all other people … “See people before you judge them”.

Table groups discussed issues arising from Chapter Three of Fratelli Tutti in, candidly sharing their  cross-cultural and cross-racial experiences and opinions.  All felt moved by a spirit of openness and acceptance.  All hope to return again for similar reflections.  Please contact Sisters, Home Visitors of Mary at homevisitors@att.net if you would like to join a future Fratelli Tutti reflections.

It is by encounter that bridges are built.  Bishop Braxton.

We are a single family dwelling in a Common Home.  Pope Francis.

The meeting closed with a Prayer for Civility from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Other Reference materials:

Short Summary  of Fratelli Tutti >>> click here.

Full text of Fratelli Tutti >>> click here.

Reflections on Fratelli Tutti >>>> click here.