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The third gathering of the Schoenstatt Fathers working in parishes in Germany took place at the Priests’ House Mount Moriah, bringing together Fathers from Germany, India, Nigeria, Burundi, and D. R. Congo. The meeting offered an important opportunity for exchange, reflection, fraternity, and renewed motivation for their pastoral mission.
The gathering began with a prayer in the shrine on Mount Moriah. During the first sessions, several confreres shared their experiences and initiatives in parish ministry, particularly their efforts to integrate Schoenstatt elements into parish life and to strengthen contact with the wider Schoenstatt Movement. These practical experiences provided valuable inspiration for the participants.
Another important part of the meeting was the presentation of the focus group on “Schoenstatt Fathers in Parishes in Germany, India and Africa,” highlighting experiences and perspectives relevant to the future development of this apostolate.
The participants also received valuable impulses from Prof. Dr. Hubertus Brantzen on how aspects of Schoenstatt spirituality can be meaningfully and understandably integrated into sunday homilies. Further contributions came from Fathers Stefan Strecker and Johannes Oelighoff, together with Raimund Stockinger, from the Schoenstatt Institute of Families, who shared their creative and long-standing experiences in working with young people, adults, and parish communities.
A special highlight was the visit to the new “House of the Movement” (Marienau), which offered an opportunity to learn more about the local Schoenstatt community and possibilities for closer collaboration between the Fathers and the Movement.
The gathering was marked by a very positive and fraternal atmosphere. The participants concluded that the meeting was enriching and helped them remain connected and inspired in their pastoral ministry. The gathering will continue next year and will be open to all Schoenstatt Fathers working in parishes in the German-speaking region.
