A weekend to strengthen inner life and friendship

Within the framework of the International Network of Young People of the Teresian Association (RIJIT), a group of young professionals held a face-to-face meeting in Santa María de los Negrales from September 18 to 20, 2026

These are young people who live or work in different cities within and outside of Spain and usually keep in touch virtually. People formerly involved with the ACIT Youth Movement were invited to this in-person meeting. Participants and facilitators from a pre-ACIT group in Madrid also joined.

Experience, the focus of the encounter

The weekend's main activity was a prayer workshop led by Antonia Martín, a member of the Teresian Association and a Doctor of Psychology. Drawing on the teachings of Pedro Poveda and Teresa of Ávila, the workshop explored various aspects of the spiritual life, such as self-knowledge combined with humility, the experience of God's mercy, prayer understood as a path to freedom and growth in love, and the close relationship between prayer and life.

During the reflection, the so-called “three journeys of Teresa” were also presented: moving from the surface to the depths, from passivity to creative freedom, and from individualism to community. Participants also learned about different forms of prayer inspired by friendship with God, which led to a profound and enriching dialogue.

Throughout the day, different forms of prayer were practiced, including contact with nature, the prayer of the name of Jesus, and imaginative contemplation.

Sharing life

One of the most significant moments came during the sharing in groups, where each person was able to put into words what they had experienced during the day and share aspects of their personal journey. The atmosphere of trust and active listening fostered profound conversations about the searches, questions, and desires that accompany young people at this stage of their lives.

The encounter concluded with a communal prayer in the crypt of Saint Pedro Poveda, marked by thanksgiving and a commitment to continue cultivating their inner life. As an aid to their spiritual journey, participants also received the book Eight Days of Prayer with Pedro Poveda , by Carolina Mancini, published by Narcea.

The camaraderie continued even in informal moments, amidst games, conversations and laughter, strengthening a friendship that transcends borders and geographical distances.

Sent to be hope

Sunday was dedicated to sharing concerns, projects, and challenges for the new school year. The encounter concluded with a closing prayer in which words like trust, accompaniment, forgiveness, mutual care, commitment, and gratitude resonated.

The participants returned to their places of origin with the desire to continue building community and living the faith according to the charism of the Teresian Association, convinced that distance is not an obstacle to walking together and being witnesses of hope where they are called to live and serve.

Estrella Sendra, Madrid.