1918 Rectors Formation Hua Hin
austraLasia #1918

EAO Rectors - a profile

HUA HIN: 3rd August 2007 -- There are 59 of them - from the youngest at 33 to the oldest at 74; fifty nine rectors or budding rectors for Salesian communities throughout EAO, gathered under an emblem of the Southern Cross and the Light of the world - reminders of East Asia-Oceania Regional identity.  And on 2nd August they entered their second of a ten day formation programme.
    Each day is being 'sponsored' by a Province in the region, a way of noting the profile of that part of the region in a particular way. 2nd August, commemoration also of Blessed August Czartoryski, happened to be the turn of the Japanese, which brought three young Japanese Rectors and contributor Fr John Marsiglio to the fore.  There was something by way of an outdoor exhibition the previous night, giving the Japanese a chance to show what is being done for vocational promotion, particularly through the aspirantate and through their migrant ministry.
    The day focused particularly on the spiritual profile of the Salesian rector, beginning with a reflection by Fr Winstanley on Jesus' mission and his style, based on his knowledge of the Father. This led easily to the 'return to Don Bosco' by way of seeking souls, lovingkindness, seeking out the poor and abandoned. The speaker indicated how Jesus' table fellowship had its counterpart in Don Bosco's Oratory style - the marginalised and at-risk approached through an environment of hospitality and personal contact.
    Fr Gustilo brought the group to the Constitutions, Chapter 2, the Special General Chapter's way of bring Salesians back to Don Bosco through mission, through living the Da mihi animas, through our whole life. Two experienced rectors of those present shared some of the ways they have built Family Spirit as rectors (Fr Lanfranco Fedrigotti, HK and Fr Roger Miranda Port Moresby).
    And then there was the wider sharing, in groups, in assembly. Rectors from many cultural settings, Samoa, for instance, where the culture, they say, has no secrets! Much discussion of the 'friendly talk', its difficulties, its possibilities. The questions were important (and the answers, but too much for a news item here!).
    The day concluded with a Goodnight from the Japan province on how they are facing up to and acting upon 'new frontiers'.

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