The 16th of July is a significant day for the Focolare Movement. In fact, it is the anniversary of the Pact of Unity between Chiara Lubich, foundress of the Movement, and Igino Giordani, whom she considered a co-founder. It took place on the 16th of July 1949.

On this anniversary, Margaret Karram, President of the Focolare Movement, addressed the following message to all those who belong to the Movement around the world.

On July 16th, 1949, Chiara Lubich and Igino Giordani made a “Pact of Unity.” It was a spiritual experience that heralded in a period of light and special union with God.

It had an effect on the life of the first Focolare community back then, but also impacted the history of the Movement together with its commitment to working toward a more fraternal and united world.

Seventy-five years after that day, here is a brief look at what that Pact meant then, and what it can mean today as we continue to live by it.

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