4922(II)_“I sincerely hope the next Salesian Rector Major will be able to visit North Korea.”

RM visits FMA on final day in Korea (8)

November 18, 2018

By KOR SC team

Seoul, Korea, 18 November 2018 -- The FMA provincial house, which is located 5 minutes from the SDB provincial house in Seoul, was filled with FMA Sisters for the Rector Major's visit on his final day in the Korea province.They listened attentively to Fr Ángel's words to them.

A line that touched them much was the comment that “I sincerely hope the next Salesian Rector Major will be able to visit North Korea.”

During his conference and later in his homily, Fr Ángel told the Sisters: “Beware the temptation towards security. Seeking security in religious life should be avoided for all Salesians. No one has a future when they pursue their own security and protection in religious life in either of our Congregations. Let us pray for the world. And let us not forget those who are suffering. Above all, let us pray for youth especially those who are in difficulties. And also let us pray for those places where people are suffering through war. The Lord wants you to become his holy word in today’s world, a gospel. Also, you should love the Holy Father, Pope Francis. There are some people who don’t like him. They are people who are loyal to their own ideals, not to the Holy Spirit's.

There are courageous confreres and sisters among us. They are the ones who are willing live there lives with the most impoverished youth.

In fact, these kinds of people make us uncomfortable. Sometimes they have to stand up against the brothers and sisters of their own community. But they are the ones who are living our charism. Each of us should strive to become one of them.

Fr Ángel sought to encourage the Sisters, expressing his concern for them, embracing them and proving photo opportunities.

Following his visit to the FMA, Fr Ángel departed the Korean peninsula from Incheon International Airport. There were around 20 Salesian Family representatives who came to farewell him and he gave each a big hug.

The visit, with its memories of embraces, photos, handshakes and above all, inspiring words and moments, will remain a wonderful memory for the entire Salesian Family in Korea. See you again the Rector Major, dear Fr Fernández Artime Ángel!