SALESIANS IN BETHLEHEM - DOORS WIDE
OPEN
Julian Fox
BETHLEHEM: 18th January -- The Salesians from
Bethlehem send their greetings to all readers of 'austraLasia', through the
Provincial of MOR province and the Rector of the Community of Gesu Bambino, Fr.
Philip Dore.
The latter writes with a brief description of
situations that we are already well aware of - the violent struggles on the
street, the presence of tanks, helicopter gunships and the like. But, he
says, 'the Salesian work here feels even more committed to helping where it can,
tested as it has been over 13 years now of political, social and economic
instability'. He tells us that the Technical School remains open for those
who actually succeed in getting there. Its hours and courses have been
adapted to help those who can only come for a short period - or even not at all.
The Oratory courtyards and chapel are open for youngsters who seek a little
respite and solace from what is happening around them, but it is not just a
passive response. They have a 'Social Work' group busy trying to meet the
needs of the poorest.
It is evident, from what Fr. Dore writes, that the
Salesians are seen as a sign of solidarity wiht the local Christian people in
particular - caught as they are between a Jewish nation and a Moslem
(Palestinian) population, but open to all three.
All in all his letter is full of words of praise -
for God's goodness even in these difficult moments, for the help and solidarity
of many friends around and abroad.
'austraLasia' will, in turn, assure the Salesians
in that part of the world of readers' prayers.
