2921 GIA SF gathering
austraLasia #2921
Japan: 6 months later, a sombre memory, then
celebration....
TOKYO: 26 September 2011 -- More than 6 months
have gone by since that terrible 11 March, when a
catastrophic earthquake and an apocalyptic tsunami of almost
unimaginable extent and power devastated more than 500 km of
Japan's north-west coastline, resulting in some 20,000
fatalities. Recalling this moment of disaster was the topic
and tenor of prayer and a fraternal afternoon involving more
than 250 people representing the 6 Salesian parishes in the
Tokyo area.
This is also a yearly traditional gathering,
which took place this year on 25 September, Sunday, in the
Himonya parish church at Tokyo Meguro. It has been a 42 year
tradition thus far. It began with the rosary lead by the
parish youth, who did so creatively and devoutly. Taize
hymns created a particular setting, as one of the older
participants commented: “it was the first time for me to
experience this”.
The Provincial, Fr Aldo Cipriani, who seemed in good form
despite two visits to hospital and a serious operation, gave
the traditional welcome, reminding everyone that that day in
Turin, 31 Salesians and another 30 or so members of the
Salesian Family from 40 countries would be receiving the
Crucifix from the Rector Major before leaving for their new
mission as missionaries.
The fraternal meal that followed gave everyone
a chance to catch up again and share their happiness at
being part of Don Bosco's spirit, the common, tangible and
visible experience shared in all six parishes.
There were a number of impromptu performances, like
the women who presented some Hawain dances, while the kids
offered some rather noisier musical efforts!
The Parish Priest at Himonya, Fr Louisi Kosaka,
thanked his parishioners for all the preparations they had
made and farewelled the group with a warm “see you next year
in Mikawajima” where the 43rd such gathering is planned.
