The spirit of family lived in daily life. The story of Mama Ini, one of the pioneers. The celebration with Maria Voce and Giancarlo Faletti on their visit to Tagaytay.

She moves slowly on to the stage, but when she begins to speak, her voice is strong and firm. No one would guess Mama Ini is 86 years old, the most senior resident of Terra Moy, the seven-acre piece of ground where the families of the Citadel of Peace live. “Since, many years ago, I came to know the Focolare, I always dreamed of moving up here from Manila where I was living with my husband and our daughters.” Over the years, the decision was made to sell the house and move up on the hills above lake Taal. “We found an apartment to rent and, later, bought a piece of ground near the chapel and the cemetery.”

The dream of Mama Ini was shared by many. Then, in 1997, Chiara Lubich, during her last visit to the citadel, placed the first stone for a section dedicated to the families, named after Moy of Los Angeles, one of the first married Focolarini in the Philippines. Thirteen years later, thirty-six houses have been built and another four will be finished within a year. The uncultivated piece of land has been transformed into a community of well-constructed, architecturally harmonious, single-family houses, paved streets and landscaped yards. At the center of the property, a large hall, dedicated to Wim Van Zeland, a Dutch Focolarino who lived for many years in the Philippine archipelago, makes an indelible impression.

The welcome dedicated to is typically Filipino: a group of young people in local costumes, waving the ever-present Mabuhay; and dances on the street in front of the delegation. Upon the arrival of  Maria Voce and Giancarlo Faletti, the garlands, and then, a trip through the grounds on a gig, typical of the area. A contagious climate of celebration that warms the hearts and enheartens the community.

“Terra Moy is the welcoming symbol of the Citadel of Peace,” Maria Voce said, speaking to all the residents. Those who come here should see the community that is growing from this spirit lived in daily life. Everything should show the heritage that Chiara has left to us – You will always be a family.”

Recently, the residents decided to establish bylaws and, therefore, according to statute, they elected a President and a council of administration comprised of seven members. “Who knows if I can also be a citizen of Terra Moy? the Focolare Movement president said jokingly, and adding, “As for you, also for us to be here is a dream come true. But it is a dream that will not end because we continue to be citizens of Terra Moy.”

Roberto Catalano

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