The challenge of the Vincentian Family at the “Finding Vince 400” festival in Rome
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The venue was the Mariapolis Center at Castel Gandolfo, a facility that was given by John Paul II to the Focolarini (founded by Chiara Lubich) to thank them for their charism and their work in the service of the Church. This conference center was therefore an ideal location for the “Finding Vince 400” Festival held by the Vincentian Family to celebrate the 400th anniversary of their charism, with a special combination: art and charity.
Art speaks to all, as does love
The host was Fr. Tomasz Mavric, current Superior General of the Congregation of the Mission, who explained to us the main reasons for the chosen theme: “We must globalize charity; this is the goal of our Festival,” he said.
“Art is able to speak to everyone, to reach the heart, and overcome barriers: this is why we’ve decided to hold this Festival. The cinema reaches young people and the entire world. We need to know how to propose good things.” Fr. Tomasz was confident, knowing that this first festival was an experiment, but sure that this is the right path.
“The world of cinema is often connected with gossip, or with debatable content, but all of this can change, and getting actors, producers, and directors involved so we can help them talk about the good and the beautiful is a great occasion,” he said. This reflects his Pauline, practical attitude.
The Festival (October 18-21) consisted of three days of round tables and screenings, with many young people participating in the screenings and meetings with the various Italian and American actors and directors present at the Festival. Among the international guests were Sheree Wilson, a television actor most known for her performances in the highly successful series Walker, Texas Ranger and Dallas. Also present was her colleague Clarence Gilyard, who is a friend and artistic director of the Festival. Below, you can watch Sheree Wilson in a video presentation of the Festival.
