The "Convívios Fraternos" Catholic youth pastoral movement in Portugal holds its National Encounter (ENCF) 2026 today and tomorrow, in Fátima. This is the 52nd edition of the encounter, which will bring together participants from various dioceses at the Sanctuary of Fátima, namely at the Chapel of the Apparitions, the Paul VI Pastoral Centre, the prayer grounds, and the Missionaries of Consolata, where the welcome, group activities, and workshops will take place.
The theme of this year's encounter is "United to Serve," inspired by the Gospel of Saint John (Jn 13:34-35). Participants are welcomed and will learn the hymn between 12:30 and 13:00 on the first day, at Consolata, and are sent back to their dioceses after the Sunday Eucharist, in front of the Paul VI Centre, where they will learn the theme of the next ENCF, at 12:30.
The Fraternal Conviviality is a first announcement experience that aims to awaken young people to faith, inviting them to serious reflection through a three-day residential retreat. The first Fraternal Conviviality took place from May 17 to 19, 1968, in Castelo Branco, in the Diocese of Portalegre-Castelo Branco, from the pastoral vision of Father Valente de Matos, with the purpose of responding to the needs and spiritual aspirations of young people.
In 2018, the movement celebrated the 50th anniversary of its founding, with its Pilgrim Cross having travelled through all dioceses in Portugal where the Fraternal Convivialities are implemented, as well as Mozambique and Paris, in France. The Portuguese Bishops' Conference approved the movement's statutes on March 1, 2010.
