From 14 to 20 July, at the Casa de Retiros Santo Domingo in Quito, Ecuador, the host country, the Meeting of Students of the Bolivarian Zone took place, bringing together friars from Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela. From the first day, the friars introduced themselves and shared their experiences, which fostered an atmosphere of fraternity and strengthened the bonds between the participants.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the “Dominican Route”, which included visits to important convents and churches in Latacunga, Ambato and Baños de Agua Santa. These visits were not only opportunities to get to know the historical and spiritual heritage of the region, but also to learn about the mission of the friars in Ecuador. They also included recreational activities that promoted conviviality and relaxation. The schedule of the meeting was enriched by the presentation of the life and mission of each entity representing the area, allowing a deeper understanding of the diverse pastoral realities and contexts in which each of the friars carry out their preaching work.
Within the framework of this meeting, significant talks were held with Monsignor Andrés Carrascosa, Apostolic Nuncio in Ecuador, and the Jesuit historian, Brother David Chamorro, who provided valuable perspectives on the mission and current challenges of the Church and the social and political reality of the region. A particularly moving moment was the diaconate ordination of three friars, a milestone that was celebrated with great joy by all present.
Group work was a crucial part of the meeting. The friars were divided into groups to address topics relevant to the Order, such as vocation ministry, justice and peace, care for creation, new technologies, academic formation and mission (youth and marginalised). This work culminated in the presentation of proposals on how the students can contribute to these issues, which were approved by the assembly of friars. These proposals reflect the commitment and creativity of the young friars to address contemporary challenges with concrete and hopeful solutions.
The day concluded with a visit to the historic centre of Quito, where the friars were able to enjoy the tourist and cultural charms of the city. This tour not only served as an enjoyable conclusion to the meeting, but was also an opportunity to reflect on the rich history and heritage of the Church in the region.
This meeting not only reinforced the fraternity among the friars of the Bolivarian Zone, but also allowed for a valuable exchange of experiences and joint planning to face the current challenges of the Order. The bonds strengthened and the proposals elaborated during these days represent an important step on the road towards a more integrated and effective mission in the diverse contexts of these countries.
