austraLasia #2577 Fr John Lee, a 'precious gift' to Africa
SEOUL: 18th January 2010 -- The tragedy which has riveted the
world's attention this past week should not let us overlook the quiet
passing of another Salesian in another part of the world, Korea. A
much-loved man whom some have likened to another Albert Schweitzer, Fr
John Lee Tae Seok, medico, missionary, Salesian, passed away from
cancer in Seoul on 14th January. He had been in Tonj, South Sudan for
the past decade. He was surrounded by confreres from Korea, from Sudan,
including the Delegate, Fr Ryan Ferrington, and
many many friends and supporters. Two young Sudanese whom he had
attended as a Salesian and a doctor were also in Seoul, on a
scholarship organised by the Foundation he has set up in support of the
Salesian work in Sudan. A confrere of his writes this moving
tribute:
(Dr.) Fr. John Lee SDB, was a Salesian Missionary from Korea, who
joined the Sudan Salesian mission about 10 years ago. He came to AFE
province as a deacon from Rome to have an African Salesian experience.
His visit to the Sudan mission ultimately led him to find a call within
the call and he chose to be part of the Sudan mission from then on.
After his ordination he returned to the Tonj Mission in the South Sudan
and worked tirelessly to set up a dispensary to cater to the needs of
the poor, sick and suffering people.
Being a medical doctor himself he managed to save
thousands of
lives since then. As an excellent musician he also began a Brass Band
and trained the young Sudanese boys and girls to discover their talents
in the field of music. His patience and persistence ultimately bore
fruits. At present the Don Bosco Brass Band is the most appreciated and
sought after Musical band in the whole of South Sudan. He also
dedicated his time to the parish activities and village visits. His
jovial and friendly manner brought him closer to the young and old
alike. Besides all other responsibilities he also helped in the school.
He was instrumental in the establishment of the Don Bosco Secondary
School in Tonj.
A great blow to all this wonderful works came a year
and half ago.
He went to Korea for his holidays and went for a routine checkup.
During the medical examination the doctors suspected cancer of the
colon and liver. Later it was confirmed and he underwent a series of
chemotherapies. Initially he responded well with the treatment and was
seem to be recovering. But past few months he began to deteriorate
finally the doctors gave up their hope of his recovery.
Fr Lee ended his earthly sojourn on 5.30 am on 14th
January
2010(Korean Time). Just 47 years of age, with great many talents, he
has gone to meet the creator, our Loving Heavenly Father. We miss him
in the Sudan, we miss his gentle smile, kind words and brotherly
presence among us. We miss him physically here on earth, but we now
have a great intercessor in heaven for our Salesian Mission in the
Sudan. Dear Fr. Lee, God be with you till we meet again…
(Shyjan
C. Job, SDB) _________________ AustraLasia is an
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