On October 21, 2025 — on the eve of the feast of St. John Paul II, patron saint of ACRO — members and friends of Catholic Action Romania (ACRO) gathered online to celebrate the Federation’s 20th anniversary. Moderated by journalist Alexandra Măriuț, the evening united generations of laypeople who have served the same mission: to be courageous witnesses of faith in the Church and in the world.
The meeting opened with a prayer led by Fr. Cristian Langa, ACRO’s general ecclesiastical assistant, who invited participants to see the anniversary not only as a remembrance, but as a renewal of mission and service. He reminded everyone that fidelity is measured not in years, but in acts of love and perseverance.
Codruța Fernea, ACRO President, reflected on the meaning of this jubilee — a moment of gratitude, passion, and hope for the future. She retraced the Federation’s roots, from the founding in Blaj in 2005 to the early 20th-century movements ASTRU and AGRU, and the post-communist revival of lay formation. Her message emphasized unity between the Greek-Catholic and Latin rites and the ongoing call to live faith together in daily life.
Former president Oana Tuduce (2005–2013) recalled the “invisible roots” of Catholic Action in Romania — the years of silent preparation, friendship, and the influence of the International Forum of Catholic Action (FIAC) and Italian lay collaborators such as Maria Grazia Tibaldi, whose early support helped rebuild lay networks after 1990.
Fr. Felix Roca, national assistant from 2005 to 2024, spoke about patience, fidelity, and formation as the heart of Catholic Action: “It is not just an organization, but a school of faith and life.”
From Italy, Maria Grazia Tibaldi shared a heartfelt message recalling the spirit of fraternity that has always marked the relationship between ACRO and Italian Catholic Action: “We did not come to bring models, but to share life.”
The celebration concluded with a moment of common prayer and thanksgiving, entrusting the future of ACRO to Mary, Mother of Hope. The evening was filled with emotion, gratitude, and renewed commitment — a recognition that Catholic Action is not measured by time, but by friendships, shared service, and the living faith of generations walking together.
