Introducing CFM Continuo: Stay Connected, Keep Growing

Sep 10

2 min read

The four weeks of the CFM in Rome are an intense time of learning, prayer, and fraternity. But true formation doesn't end when we return to our home monasteries—in fact, that is where the real integration begins.

To support you as you return to your communities, we are excited to launch a brand-new initiative: CFM Continuo.

What is CFM Continuo?

CFM Continuo is a monthly, voluntary online gathering designed to keep the spirit of the CFM alive. It offers a space to deepen the topics we studied in Rome, share how life is going back home, and encourage one another on the monastic journey.

When & How Often?

When: Gatherings take place on the last weekend of each month.
Day & Time: Each group can decide together whether they prefer to meet on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, and agree on a specific time.
Duration (90 Minutes):
- Check-in (15–20 min): A brief round to see how everyone is doing in their home communities and maybe with their homeworks for Rome.
- Text & Discussion (approx. 60 min): Reading and reflecting on a short text related to on of our Rome lectures, followed by an open exchange.
- Shared Prayer (10–15 min): Closing together with familiar prayers.

Materials Provided

The CFM Secretariat will send out a short input file with a text and reflection questions the week before each monthly meeting.

Language Groups & Size

To ensure everyone can speak freely and without the need for translators:

Group Size: Between 5 and 15 participants per group.
Proposed Languages: Portuguese (Brazil), English, French, Italian, and Vietnamese.
Other Languages: If at least 5 participants wish to form a group in another language, you are very welcome to do so—just let us know!

Easy Technical Access (No App Required!)

It is very simple to join:

On the sign-up sheets, you will find the direct link (URL) for your group’s virtual meeting room.
Simply open the link in your web browser (e.g., Firefox or Chrome) on your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Allow your browser to use your microphone and camera when prompted—and you are in!
No app installation, registration, or subscription is needed.

Moderation & Feedback

Groups can either choose one dedicated moderator or rotate the role each month. The moderator simply helps keep track of time so everyone gets a chance to share. All we ask is that someone notifies the Secretariat if a session needs to be cancelled or if a group needs assistance.

100% Voluntary & Flexible

This is a resource for you, not an obligation. If you attend a few times and miss some others because of your monastery’s schedule, that is completely fine!

How to Join

Sign-up sheets with the meeting room links will be distributed in the Aula tomorrow.

This is a brand-new effort for all of us, and we are learning as we go. We look forward to continuing this path together!