4629(I)_First Professions and Renewal of Temporary Professions in the Australia-Pacific Province

4629(I)_First Professions and Renewal of Temporary Professions in the Australia-Pacific Province

February 2, 2018

By Fr Bernie Graham, SDB

Suva, Fiji, 31 January 2018 -- The Feast of St John Bosco was again the occasion of great celebration in the Australia-Pacific Province (AUL) when five novices made their First Profession as Salesians of Don Bosco.

After completing their novitiate in Suva, under the direction of Fr James Kyaw Hoe, Damian Taofinu’u, Duc Nguyen, Foua Tea Peato, Sefilino Falaniko and Silao Moeloa Vaipuna pronounced their First Vows in the presence of Fr Bernie Graham, Vice Provincial.

The simple but profound ceremony took place during a large tropical thunderstorm, typical of the Pacific at this time of year, but this did not dampen the sense of occasion or the wonderful Pacifican music and singing and festivities.

Many friends and fellow novices from the Inter-novitiate program joined them for this special occasion of the commitment to Don Bosco in the Salesian Congregation.

Photo Number 1: Damian Taofinu’u, Silao Moeloa Vaipuna, Sefilino Falaniko Fr James Kyaw Hoe Foua Tea Peato, Duc Nguyen, and Fr Bernie Graham

Also four confreres renewed their Temporary Vows on the Feast of Don Bosco, recommitting themselves to following Christ in the way of Don Bosco.

Cl Jeff Miller renewed his vows for three years at St Marys, Australia, where he is undertaking his Practical Training. His Rector, Fr John Walenciej received his vows.

Cl Tristan O’Brien renewed his vow for one year at Clifton Hill, Australia, where he is in the Post Novitiate. His Rector Fr Phil Gleeson received his vows.

Cl Falefa Elia and Cl Lui Leiofi Sueina renewed their vows for one year at Suva, Fiji, where they too are in the Post Novitiate. Fr Bernie Graham, Vice Provincial, received their vows.

Congratulations to these young Salesians.