2334 VIE Salesian Family Day, 150th
austraLasia #2334

Vietnam celebrates Salesian Family Day and begins its 150th event

HO CHI MINH CITY: 23rd January 2009 --  Just as some 350 members of the Salesian Family are gathered in Rome for what the Rector Major sees as the most major re-launching of the Salesian Family as a 'vast movement of people for the salvation of souls' since Don Bosco set out on that path, news comes in from Vietnam province of their own important efforts in this regard, their celebration of Salesian Family Day on 17th January, and their preparation for the 'year of grace' proclaimed by the Rector Major - the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Congregation.
    The Salesian Cooperators were in charge, this year, of organising the Salesian Family Day for Vietnam which saw its own significant numbers of participants: 200 SDBs, 40 FMA's, all DBV's (Don Bosco Volunteers), 200 Salesian Cooperators..... and that is just from one nation!
    The event focused on the 150th in preparation for Don Bosco's bi-centenary of birth in 2015. This was examined through presentation of the two General Chapters, the 26th of the Salesians and the 22nd of the Salesian Sisters, held recently.
    As an illustration of Salesian holiness, the novices acted out Don Bosco's dream of the Ten Diamonds. The story of the pine trees was choreographed into an outstanding dance routine by the Salesian Sisters and their novices.
    Salesian Bishop Peter De was the main celebrant at the event which was the climax of the day - the celebration of the Eucharist. He was joined by some 70 Salesian priests. Based on his experience as provincial, as a theology professor in a non-Salesian theologate, and now as bishop, Bishop De shared his deep reflections on how to be a son/daughter of Don Bosco today in different states of life and in various ministries.


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