2746 "I am a Brother: yesterday, today and forever"
austraLasia #2746
 

"I am a Brother: yesterday, today and forever"

Philippines: 27 October 2010 -- 130 Brothers, 40 Congregations, amongst which 9 Salesian Brothers from both north and south Salesian Provinces (FIN and FIS), made their way to the Hidden Paradise Mountain Resort at San Fernando, Cebu from 22-25 October to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the National Federation of Religious Brothers in the Philippines (NFRBP). They chose, as their Jubilee reflection theme: "Brother Ako: noon, ngayon at magpakailanman" or "I am a Brother: yesterday, today and forever".
    Bishop Broderick Pabillo sdb was invited to give the keynote speech. He spoke of early religious life begun by communities of brothers and challenged today's brothers to be the best in their unique vocation different from the priestly vocation. It was a stirring address and well commented on throughout the remaining days. His talk was followed by small group sharing which focused on promoting the vocation to the brotherhood.
    Business meetings for the various regions (Luzon, Visayas amd Mindanao-sulu) took place in the course of events. Last year two Salesians were elected as officials at regional and national level: Bro. Carlo Bacalla and Bro. Raymond Callo. This year a third was added - Bro. George Celis now heads the Luzon association of Religious Brothers and was elected as vice-chairman of the NFRBP.
    The Brothers spent the morning of their final day at Holy Family Retreat House, Lahug, Cebu City, where the NFRBP was born 25 years ago, where they attended Mass and took photos on the spot where the first group photo had been taken. In the afternoon they toured historic Cebu City or went 'island-hopping'.
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