To mark the 20th anniversary of Harambee, the Opus Dei Centenary Committee brought together professionals who, inspired by St. Josemaría Escrivá, promote social initiatives, work in public or private social organizations, or have launched projects in various fields.

It was an opportunity to reflect in a collaborative setting on their identity and purpose, their potential for raising awareness, and the importance of planning for their sustainability.

The event gave birth to what is now known as the BeDoCare Forum. These sessions were the beginning of a movement aimed at bringing together, inspiring, and supporting individuals and initiatives committed to leaving a positive mark on their communities.

BeDoCare Rome 2022

150

people involved

90

social initiatives

30

countries

See all photos on Flickr

Participants shared perspectives and experiences, focusing on three key themes:

PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS

Fostering social awareness is essential for the success of these initiatives. Recognizing the dignity of every individual is as important as being socially conscious of the realities faced by the communities these institutions serve. Therefore, an education that promotes values and a sustainable lifestyle, is key in creating an atmosphere of empathy and collaboration.

REVITALIZING SOCIAL INITIATIVES

Revitalizing initiatives requires assessing their mission and how their services are received. It’s crucial to empower beneficiaries and develop a strategic plan tailored to the needs of the community. Professionalization and the exchange of best practices among organizations strengthen the impact of these initiatives.

PROJECTING OPUS DEI CENTENARY’S LEGACY

Projecting Opus Dei’s legacy in its centenary means reflecting on the impact of St. Josemaría’s message. It’s essential to focus on the identity and mission of each initiative, while fostering an active role from beneficiaries. Building networks of collaboration and engaging young people will help keep the relevance of this legacy alive in today’s society.

Read the summary document

Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz's Conference at BeDoCare Rome 2022

Participant Testimonials

María Isabel Ochoa, Los Altos School

“Through social service, the students of Los Altos School are transforming lives and strengthening communities, showing that a small effort can make a big impact.”

María Isabel Ochoa, representative of Los Altos School in Jalisco, was inspired by the BeDoCare Rome conference to raise the school’s social service efforts. Together with the Zapopan Foundation, the school is seeking to improve the living conditions of vulnerable families affected by the pandemic.
 
Recently, a group of high school students moved and, determined to help others, built a house for an older couple and their grandson. This project not only provided a home but also united the community in fundraising, and empowered students to use their talents for the benefit of others.

Alejandra Costas, Comprehensive Training Center "Painting the Future"

“The charity of Christ’s love invites us to see people with interest, as someone whom the Lord loves.”

The “Painting the Future” Comprehensive Training Center works with at-risk children, offering support to those exposed to street life, violence, and dysfunctional families. Its goal is to provide a safe space that fosters cognitive, motor, and social development, as well as value-based training, helping parents embrace their role as educators.

In 2022, I had the opportunity to attend BeDoCare Rome, representing this project. It was moving to witness how different realities around the world united with the same purpose of spreading God’s love. Listening to the stories of other participants, who also work with vulnerable communities, deeply inspired me and reaffirmed my commitment to our mission. I was reminded of Blessed Álvaro del Portillo’s words: “Never pass by someone else’s pain indifferently.”

Press Notes

The World We Live In...
and the One We Want to Live In

The Transformation of the Heart
as a Driver of Social Innovation