austraLasia #2335


Salesian Spirituality Day '150th' event lead-in, China Province

HONG KONG: 24th January 2009 -- In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Salesian Congregation, the China Province organised a Salesian Spirituality Day at Tang King Po School, Kowloon on Sunday afternoon, January 18th, 2009.
    The celebration brought together spiritual directors, chairmen, vice-chairmen of the different groups linked to Don Bosco in the China Province. The event was kicked-off by Fr Andrew Fung, Vice Provincial, with a balloon-passing game symbolising the passing on of the Salesian charism from one generation to another.
    After this warm up, the representatives listened to the talk delivered by Fr Simon Lam, Provincial of China Province. Fr Simon started his sharing by inviting the entire representatives to sing a song, 'Candle Light', together. The lyrics remind us to keep passing the light on during icy moments and difficult times. Fr Provincial pointed out that a pastoral and merciful heart like Don Bosco is the driving momentum to serve the needy youth, enabling him even to lay down his life for them. We, as leaders, have to deepen spiritual life and the love of God. Without the nurture of the Word of God and prayer we could not possibly carry out the Salesian mission.
    Following the talk was the group discussion on the expectations of spiritual directors. In all, spiritual directors are expected to be prayerful people, leading in the spiritual dimension, focusing on the Word of God and providing divine and practical guidance on Christian living. Ideally spiritual directors (in the context in which they are working in China Province Salesian works) show support and care by attending most of the events and activities.
    Fr Provincial gave the concluding remarks saying that we all need to deepen our spiritual lives and encourage spiritual directors to bring bacl the good tradition of opening and closing prayer at meetings. The Provincial even suggested that, if the situation allows, 15 to 20 minutes Scripture reading and sharing should be key items on the agenda. 
    Don Bosco was given by God to us as the example to follow. Don Bosco's dream originated from his compassionate heart, seeing the needs of the youth of his time. we are called to carry out our apostolate through our ordinary responsibilities in our families, consecrated lives, married lives, professional, socio-political and cultural lives as well as in the church.  Don Bosco strove to bring together the greatest possible number of people to serve youth.
    The gathering at Tang King Po served to remind its participants that they share the same mission and spirituality and should be real collaborators for the salvation of the young.  
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Title: australasia 2335
Subject and key words: EAO Provinces China Province 150 Spirituality Day
Date (year): 2009
ID: 2000-2099|2335