austraLasia #2552
 
Mary, Our Help Church Blessed

PHNOM PENH: 8th December 2009 -- A renovated Church dedicated to Mary under the title of Mary Immaculate, Help of Christians, Mother of God and Queen of the Universe has been blessed to serve as the new parish church for a fast developing section of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It is in that part of the city which has been served by the Salesians in the field of education and evangelisation since 1991
    Sixteen priests were joined Bishop Emil Destombes MEP, to witness and to concelebrate the historic event in the life and mission of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Cambodia. Three hundred Catholics were there to give recognition and appreciation to the missionary work that the Salesians have carried out in the field of education. Their presence was also seen as a support for the Salesians as they continue to serve the evangelizing needs of the Church in the expansion of the Catholic population of the city.  Fr. John Bosco Thepharat Pitisant SDB (THA Provincial) was present to give encouragement to the confreres.
    The main painting in the sanctuary explains the truth of God's infinite love: "God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3.16). The first fruit of this redemption is Mary, followed by all humanity including the Cambodian people in all facets of their lives.
    The Marian role is depicted by the pictures of Mary as Mother of God and Queen of the universe  in her life close to Jesus through the Annunciation, Birth, Cross, Ascension and Pentecost events of salvation history. 
    The interior design is highlighted by a use of wood, offering 'Bosco' slant for the 150th anniversary of the Congregation, year 2009. This Church, then, has been renovated as part of the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Salesians of St. John Bosco and a reminder of Don Bosco's three special loves: Holy Eucharist, Mary and the Church.
    'YAsia Fiesta Fever' invaded the celebration with typically animated action songs and cultural dances. A family lunch concluded the joyous and memorable celebration of Mary, Our Help Parish.
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Title: australasia 2552
Subject and key words: EAO Provinces THA (Cambodia) MHC Church
Date (year): 2009
ID: 2000-2099|2552