The CANA Week has been a transformative experience for many couples. For nearly 50 years, we have witnessed, around the world, the power of CANA pedagogy in building strong marriages and families. However, a constant challenge in Brazil — and probably in other countries as well — is how to encourage families to make this investment.
It’s not easy for a Brazilian family to give up vacations to attend CANA. However, we know that once they come, they never regret it. So, how do we convince them to take the leap?
It is with this in mind that Gustavo and Mariana Massa came up with the idea of “La Petite Ferme de CANA.” Their plan is to transform their retreat house in Divinópolis into a small farm, with animals lent by friends from the community: horses, a pony, a mini-ox, calves, piglets, chickens, ducks, rabbits, a turtle, guinea pigs, fish… In short, a true Noah’s ark to attract and entertain families.
This weekend will offer couples moments of teaching, prayer as a couple and with the family, countryside games, Laudato Si’ workshops, a country-themed evening, and rustic meals, all in a setting adapted to the theme. On the first day, the theme will be: “Planting Love,” with the motto: “If we reap what we sow, let’s plant more Love.” The next day, the theme will be: “Taking Care of Our Love,” with the motto: “Who loves, takes care.” The Laudato Si’ workshops will draw a parallel between taking care of nature and caring for family relationships.
To promote this event, they have created a song and a video clip which they are sharing in groups and on social media. They also have their mascots: the mini-rabbit Benjamin, and the guinea pigs Floquinho and Rosinha, who are a huge hit with children after Mass.
We hope this weekend will provide a wonderful experience for families and encourage them to participate in CANA Week. Regardless, we are convinced that it will be a special moment, filled with memories, good seeds, and a unique weekend spent with Jesus as a family!