Reflection Day: Fr. Aquilino Bocos Merino, CMF

The first Sunday morning of the Synod was dedicated to a special day of reflection on “Restructuring in the Passionist Congregation” guided by Fr. Aqulino Bocos Merino, CMF. The following information will introduce  him. Fr. Aquilino Bocos Merino started his activity by teaching philosophy in the Claretian Seminary of Segovia, completed his studies in philosophy at the Pontifical University of Salamanca and was on the formation staff of the International Claretian Theologate of Salamanca and spiritual director of the Maronite Major Seminary of the same City.

In 1971 he was named director of the periodical “Vida Religiosa”, forming part of the founding team (and principal motivator) of the Theological Institute of Religious Institute of Madrid. In 1972 he organized the first National Week of Religious Life, setting this service to the Church on route, now celebrating 40 years uninterrupted activity.

In 1980 he was elected Provincial Superior of Castile. During these years he was president of FERE and published a book on the mission of catholic schools. In 1985 he was elected Superior General of his Congregation and re-elected in 1997 (until 2003). During these years he was member of the Council of the Union of Major Superiors and of the Council of the 16 of the Congregation for Institutes of Religious Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. He participated in three Synods. In 1994 Pope John Paul II named him member of the same Vatican Dicastery, an assignment which was renewed in 1999.

At present he works assiduously for the periodical “Vida Religiosa” and for the Theological Institute of Religious Life and is very much sought after by religious for his services as speaker and moderator. A theme which he has been working on intensely during recent years is the “reorganization” of religious institutes. His thoughts on consecrated life can be found in an infinity of articles in specialized periodicals and are in some way summarized (albeit from a Claretian point of view) in three large volumes published between 2006 and 2008 under the titles “Legacy and Prophecy”, “Walking Together” and “Times of Communion and Mission”.