In Brazil, we like to say that the year really begins after Carnival. At the start of this year, on March 1, during the 8 a.m. Mass in Belo Horizonte, we experienced a momentous occasion: the first CANA sending forth of a dozen couples who have been involved in the mission for several years.
After receiving so many blessings at the CANA school—through training, prayer, fellowship, and service—these couples have chosen to take the next step. They are not leaving: they are being commissioned. Sent to give back what they have received, in the service of CANA Fiancés, at the heart of their parish (Alpha), or in other missions of the Community (Come and See). Their “yes” marks a transition: from receiving to transmitting, from formation to fruitfulness.
This sending forth was also an opportunity for a new impetus. In Divinópolis, as in Belo Horizonte, more than fifty couples were trained in the four pillars of the CANA year. We invited them to discern the concrete directions they wish to give to their year 2026, so that it may be lived with intention and depth.
Yes, everything begins with a departure. Let’s get going… Church of pilgrims… sent to follow Christ!
