As we move towards becoming the new province of ESP-POL, we held an Initial Formation meeting with three formators, Alicja from Poland, Monse and Mamen from Spain, and four participants, Alicia, Alejandra (ESP), Agnieszka and Urszula (POL). Taking place from March 20 to 22, 2026 at the Pau Alcover community in Barcelona, the gathering focused on the topic of “community”.
After a community dinner on Friday, Saturday started with a mass and prayers. As we silently prayed to the Ezechiel song, the verses about God gathering people from different nations in one place seemed so very real.
The day was full of activities and inspiring discussions. In saying a few words about ourselves, we realized how different our backgrounds and experiences are, and yet we all share an affinity for contemplation and nature. An important part of the workshop was learning about the different roles people take in a group. In the afternoon, we focused on real-life community situations to examine our mindsets. We discovered the importance of open dialogue, of feeling responsible for the community, and of the belief that things can be improved as long as we decide to engage. It was eye-opening to see how others in their communities cope with similar difficulties in their daily lives. It was also inspiring to hear how they have handled it now and in the past.
The day finished with a delicious dinner near Sagrada Familia. The words of one of the formators, “you do not improvise the future, you plan it,” rang very true as we stood near this remarkable building, which has been under construction for 144 years.
Sunday was spent with the Sarria community of elder sisters. They very generously shared their experiences concerning community life, talking about the changes that have occurred over the years and the challenges they pose.
We feel very enriched by this gathering and are thankful to our formators and to the Communities of Pau Alcover and Sarria for their kindness and hospitality.
Agnieszka, Candidate from Poland
Section |International News|New Provinces
Province |ESP-POL|Poland|Spain
