3274 EAO Confrere at the SYM 2013 of Italy
austraLasia #3274

 

EAO Confrere at the SYM 2013 of Italy

VIGLIANO (ITALY) 26 August, 2013- I am here in Vigliano Biellese, North Italy, helping in the summer festive oratory organized by the Salesian school community located about 45 minutes by car from Turin. I am with other theologians of Ratisbonne doing our summer apostolate, which is now coming to a close.

I had been fortunate to participate in the Salesian Youth Movement Encounter (MGS) 2013, even if it was just for two days. On the 14th in Valdocco, I was with hundreds of young people from the different regions of Italy gathered to celebrate and share in the reflections of the WYD that was held in Rio. Seeing their enthusiastic participation in the different activities is an encouragement for me to remain faithful and flourish in the Salesian vocation that God has called me. This is the field of Salesian apostolate and invites me to prepare myself well, asking God to make me strong and faithful.

The 15th was the Solemnity of Our Lady's Assumption. This was celebrated in my community with festive activities already planned with the youth of the oratory.

The following day, Don Bosco's 198th birthday, I joined again the MGS 2013, this time in Becchi -Castelnuovo Don Bosco. The Rector Major was present together with about 1200 youth, Salesians and other members of the Salesian Family. Here, Fr. Pascual Chavez opened the third year of preparation for the Bicentinnial celebrations with his reflections on the Salesian Spirituality. It was an indescribable experience! I was celebrating the birthday of Don Bosco in the place which before, I only used to hear and read in books. I was happy to celebrate it with all those present. I am proud to be part of such a blessed family, the Salesian family of Don Bosco. May we also increase in number and quality in Indonesia, my country, which celebrates its Independence day, the day after Don Bosco's birthday
.