3269 Third Salesian Family Encounter-Philippines
austraLasia #3269

 

Third Salesian Family Encounter-Philippines

CEBU (PHILIPPINES) 17 August, 2013- Members of the Salesian Family from the Philippines North and South Provinces came together for the 3rd Salesian Family Encounter of Don Bosco Philippines held in the Don Bosco Retreat House -Lawaan, Talisay City, Cebu. According to Fr. Eugene Maglasang, the FIS coordinator for the Salesian Family, this bi-annual gathering is a response to the challenge of strengthening the spirit of St John Bosco that binds us together in working for the good of souls.

Theme for this year is ‘United in Faith through the Gospel of Joy’ inspired by Pope Benedict’s Year of Faith and the Rector Major’s strenna on the ‘Gospel of Joy.’ It is also envisioned that all the members visibly manifest our unity as one Salesian Family rooted in the Christian faith, a faith lived daily as the gospel of joy. The resource speakers were Fr. Joriz Calsa and Fr. Adriano Satura. About 200 participants were present, and another 100 Salesians, seminarians and visitors joined the group for the closing Mass and agape.

The event was highlighted by Declaration of Unity and Action of the Members of the Salesian Family in the Philippines based on the reflections and sharings on the apostolic spirituality in our life of communion in the mission of Don Bosco and committed to spreading values that comes from authentic Christian witnessing.

Delegates of the 3rd Salesian Family Encounter of Don Bosco Philippines also witnessed the public promise of a diocesan priest, Rev. Fr. Dennis Boltron, as a Salesian Cooperator. He is currently parish priest of the new Saint John the Baptist Parish in Barili, Archdiocese of Cebu.

The following day, participants from the north took the opportunity to make a pilgrim tour of the sacred places in Cebu, before returning to Manila.