austraLasia 1689
Salesian Sisters celebrate 75 years of
mission in Thailand
(with grateful thanks to our FMA correspondent
in Thailand)
BANGKOK: 15th November 2006 -- The Salesian Sisters (FMA) celebrated
their 75th anniversary of presence in Thailand on 10 and 11 November.
Celebrations were preceded by a year of preparation, during which the formation
department in particular has worked hard at reviving memories but even more so
fervour of renewal and commitment in the charism which draws jointly from Don
Bosco and Mary Mazzarello. Other key areas have also played their part.
Sr Maria Carmen Canales, the General Councillor for Youth Ministry, was present
for the novena in proximate preparation for the celebrations. She met
with Superiors of communities and the Youth Ministry Team and then,
significantly, with young people from all of the FMA schools in Thailand.
This huge gathering was organised by Sr. Marie Upatham Sampran.
Sr. Carmen presented members of the SSYV (Salesian Sisters
Youth Volunteers) with a medal recognising their services. This group,
which began with just 7 members in 1994, has now swelled to 43 in number.
They are committed young women from all the FMA schools who have already
demonstrated constancy and involvement in volunteer service in Thailand.
A theatrical presentation celebrated the memory of 75 years
of mission from its beginnings until its full flowering in 2006. The evening
concluded with Taize prayer.
11 November saw the official blessing and opening of the new
Than Phraphon building for meetings and gatherings at national and pan-Asia
level, and a second construction, Ban Thidarak, as a reception centre for young
girls in need. Cardinal Michael Michai Kibunchu presided at the
Celebration of the Word for the opening ceremonies, and then at the Eucharist.
He was joined by the Apostolic Nuncio, Mons. Pennacchio, and four other Bishops
and fifty priests. Many Religious men and women attended, as well as the
students and their parents.
In festivities that followed, the Thai Sisters expressed
their gratitude to the many missionaries who have been part of the 75 years of
growth in Thailand. The afternoon was given over to the Past Pupils, and
the World FMA Past Pupils Delegate, Sr Malisa, was present for the occasion.
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