CGS in the World
The International Council (Consiglio)
A Sign of Unity
The International Council, also known by its Italian name Consiglio, held its first meeting in October 1996 in Rome, Italy. Sofia Cavalletti saw its founding as an important step in the development of our work to support the “co-involvement” of many — young and old — in the atrium (“The Founding of the International Council,” 1998 Journal).
For the twenty-one people who came from seven countries where Catechesis of the Good Shepherd had become widespread, the aim of the Consiglio was to “be a sign of unity,” joining representatives of associations around the world in a special friendship. Such friendship sprung “in a deep and spontaneous manner right from the first and did not allow them to be discouraged by the differences in ages or by the different settings where people lived or even by the separation of an ocean.”
The greatest importance of the Consiglio’s identity is point #2 (of the 32 Points of Reflection) – The International Council (Consiglio) of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a sign of unity of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd which is present in various countries through the Associations which have been formally established according to the guidelines of the Consiglio. Francesca stated during a session on Organizational Issues that “we cannot overstate enough the greatest importance of unity.”
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a work of the Holy Spirit around the world, touching adults and children alike and offering them in their own language a rich engagement with God, always an invitation to a deeper relationship with God as shown through Jesus and animated by the Holy Spirit. The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd can be found in at least 65 countries around the world.
A Common Spring
It is in this reality that the work of the Consiglio is to be expressed above all else. Through the Consiglio, everyone’s contributions are held in common. Our association has always been closely connected to the Consiglio as we receive inspiration and direction as well as share this work with our members and others around the world.
The Consiglio gathers every three years. Members of the Executive Committee for the Consiglio include Francesca Cocchini (Italy), Nora Bonilla (Colombia), Tere Loyo (Mexico), and Rebekah Rojcewicz (USA). Additionally, there are two representatives from each country where an association of catechists has been established.
The Gift
Links to International Council websites:
Italy Australia Colombia Germany Mexico