ZMB Salesian Newslink Year 7 No. 25

Year 7 | Issue No. 25 Dec - Jan - Feb 2013


Pope Benedict XVI


Don Bosco High School - Nkhotakota


Education in the Digital Continent


ZMB - VII Provincial Chapter




T


Salesian Newslink
ZMB Quarterly publication
Year 7/Nº25 Dec-Jan-Feb 2013


2


Director & Editor: Fr. Javier A. Barrientos
Redaction Board: Fr. Dennis Higgins, Walter Thyrniang
Graphic Design: Fr. Javier A. Barrientos
Photos: Br. Walter Thyrniang, Sylvester Makumba,


Fr. Javier Barrientos, Joackim Mzanywa,
Alexio Mesi, Fr Ignatius Musenge.


E-mail: zmbsocialc@salesianszmb.org
Website: www.salesianszmb.org
Contribution from: Fr. George Chalissery, Dn. Jerome Bwalya,


Br. Walter Thyrniang, Cl. Flavious
Chikadzu, Cl. Alphoncious Hamweete.


Printed: Printing Press - ZMB Provincial House


Editorial: Re-thinking the Salesian Mission 3
Don Bosco Educator - Pascual Chavez RM 4
The Church belongs to Christ - Pope Benedict XVI 6
Through suffering to Endless haipiness 7
Salesian World: Local News 8
Don Bosco High School - Nkhotakota 9
Young People and the Year of Faith 10
School and the Digital World 11
Is it possible to live a life of abstinence from sex? 12
Thinking Point: VII Provincial Chapter 13
Rector Major: Letter to the Salesian Family 14
Salesian World: ANS News 15
Moshi Update 16
Did you know that..? 17
Obituary Letter: R.I.P Clement Mutamba 18
Celebrations at Don Bosco Technical Institute 20
Cagliero 11 - February 2013 22
Benedict XVI 23
ZMB Photo 24


In this Issue:


3Salesian NewslinkZMBSalesian NewslinkZMB


he year we just began keeps significance of others and eventually make a
bringing about surprising move, as it will happen in the forthcoming VII
events. A few days ago a Provincial Chapter.
meteorite disintegrated in History speaks of the victory won by George
the Russian sky, injuring Washington and his small battalion. When none


more than a thousand people expected them to make a difference in the
and destroying not a few American Civil War, they gave all their lives for
buildings. In addition to this the ideals they believed in. They are now
event, days later we learned of reckoned to have been the 'right men' who did
t h e re s i g n a t i o n o f Po p e the 'right thing' at the 'right time'. The capacity to
Benedict XVI to the Chair of assess the situation and to give the answer the
Peter. time and situation deserve; this is a lesson we
Last year's happenings are still can draw from George Washington's move and
echoing in our minds. The last lately the Pope's resignation.
one and perhaps the most
painful of all was the death of
Clement Mutamba, a young
Salesian whose life cancer cut
short. We saw him fighting for
life, dealing with the whole
scaring idea of death and finally
we saw him gone. Together with
Clement's death we also
witness the departure of other
family members of some of our
confreres in ZMB. They leave
behind the example of their
lives, but also the emptiness of
their absence, yet life goes on.
Our Vice-Province [ZMB] is also
w i t n e s s i n g a p e r i o d o f
transformation and growth. The


Life is dynamic and we have to take it this way; community in Nkhotakota
yet as the Latin proverb reads, 'non progredi est (Malawi) is proud of the
regredi' 'not going forward is already going progress students are making
backward.' This is the experience of the Zambian and the good education they
Soccer Team, champions of the AFCON 2012; provide to the children of
winners last year and only. Nkhotakota. The school in


Mansa (in the north of Zambia) As the year unfolds, all the events that keep on
is almost ready to open its doors surprising us, it is important to keep perspective
to the first intake in 2014. In and never lose sense of direction. We have
Kabwe, a partnership is achieved many things individually, as a
underway between the Vice- community, Vice-Province, etc. There is call to
Province and Sables (an Irish continue growing, with positive thinking and
Organisation) for the opening of enthusiasm, finding the way, or making one, an
the long-desired 'Street-kids urgent need to continue making the difference,
Project'. But at the same time, progressing in quality but also in holiness.
we need to evaluate the


HISTORIA
Magistra vitae est


Fr. Javier Antonio Barrientos


ditorial


Don Bosco Campus - Lilongwe




T


Salesian Newslink
ZMB Quarterly publication
Year 7/Nº25 Dec-Jan-Feb 2013


2


Director & Editor: Fr. Javier A. Barrientos
Redaction Board: Fr. Dennis Higgins, Walter Thyrniang
Graphic Design: Fr. Javier A. Barrientos
Photos: Br. Walter Thyrniang, Sylvester Makumba,


Fr. Javier Barrientos, Joackim Mzanywa,
Alexio Mesi, Fr Ignatius Musenge.


E-mail: zmbsocialc@salesianszmb.org
Website: www.salesianszmb.org
Contribution from: Fr. George Chalissery, Dn. Jerome Bwalya,


Br. Walter Thyrniang, Cl. Flavious
Chikadzu, Cl. Alphoncious Hamweete.


Printed: Printing Press - ZMB Provincial House


Editorial: Re-thinking the Salesian Mission 3
Don Bosco Educator - Pascual Chavez RM 4
The Church belongs to Christ - Pope Benedict XVI 6
Through suffering to Endless haipiness 7
Salesian World: Local News 8
Don Bosco High School - Nkhotakota 9
Young People and the Year of Faith 10
School and the Digital World 11
Is it possible to live a life of abstinence from sex? 12
Thinking Point: VII Provincial Chapter 13
Rector Major: Letter to the Salesian Family 14
Salesian World: ANS News 15
Moshi Update 16
Did you know that..? 17
Obituary Letter: R.I.P Clement Mutamba 18
Celebrations at Don Bosco Technical Institute 20
Cagliero 11 - February 2013 22
Benedict XVI 23
ZMB Photo 24


In this Issue:


3Salesian NewslinkZMBSalesian NewslinkZMB


he year we just began keeps significance of others and eventually make a
bringing about surprising move, as it will happen in the forthcoming VII
events. A few days ago a Provincial Chapter.
meteorite disintegrated in History speaks of the victory won by George
the Russian sky, injuring Washington and his small battalion. When none


more than a thousand people expected them to make a difference in the
and destroying not a few American Civil War, they gave all their lives for
buildings. In addition to this the ideals they believed in. They are now
event, days later we learned of reckoned to have been the 'right men' who did
t h e re s i g n a t i o n o f Po p e the 'right thing' at the 'right time'. The capacity to
Benedict XVI to the Chair of assess the situation and to give the answer the
Peter. time and situation deserve; this is a lesson we
Last year's happenings are still can draw from George Washington's move and
echoing in our minds. The last lately the Pope's resignation.
one and perhaps the most
painful of all was the death of
Clement Mutamba, a young
Salesian whose life cancer cut
short. We saw him fighting for
life, dealing with the whole
scaring idea of death and finally
we saw him gone. Together with
Clement's death we also
witness the departure of other
family members of some of our
confreres in ZMB. They leave
behind the example of their
lives, but also the emptiness of
their absence, yet life goes on.
Our Vice-Province [ZMB] is also
w i t n e s s i n g a p e r i o d o f
transformation and growth. The


Life is dynamic and we have to take it this way; community in Nkhotakota
yet as the Latin proverb reads, 'non progredi est (Malawi) is proud of the
regredi' 'not going forward is already going progress students are making
backward.' This is the experience of the Zambian and the good education they
Soccer Team, champions of the AFCON 2012; provide to the children of
winners last year and only. Nkhotakota. The school in


Mansa (in the north of Zambia) As the year unfolds, all the events that keep on
is almost ready to open its doors surprising us, it is important to keep perspective
to the first intake in 2014. In and never lose sense of direction. We have
Kabwe, a partnership is achieved many things individually, as a
underway between the Vice- community, Vice-Province, etc. There is call to
Province and Sables (an Irish continue growing, with positive thinking and
Organisation) for the opening of enthusiasm, finding the way, or making one, an
the long-desired 'Street-kids urgent need to continue making the difference,
Project'. But at the same time, progressing in quality but also in holiness.
we need to evaluate the


HISTORIA
Magistra vitae est


Fr. Javier Antonio Barrientos


ditorial


Don Bosco Campus - Lilongwe




O N B O S C O must do so by staying in the
NARRATES grace of God, since the heart of


the young man who is in sin is I am known throughout
like the sea in continuous the world as a saint who
t u r m o i l " . T h a t ' s w h y I has openhandedly sown
remembered always that "joy so much joy. Indeed, as
comes from peace of heart". I someone who knew me
insisted: "I don't want anything personally wrote: I made
other than a young man who Christian joy "the eleventh
does what is good and is always c o m m a n d m e n t " . T h e
cheerful".experience convinced me that


you cannot work without this At times, someone comes to
wonderful educational drive, mind as the eternal acrobat of
this beautiful step ahead, which the Becchi and I think 'you can
is joy. And, what's more, do me a big favour'. But it is a
because my kids were deeply very reduced image of my ideal.
convinced. "If you want your life Games, rides, musical bands,
to be happy and peaceful, you theatrical performances and


The Devil is Afraid
of Happy People


r
ec


t
o


r
m


a
jo


r


Salesian NewslinkZMB 54 Salesian NewslinkZMB


Don Bosco
EDUCATOR


DD


festivals were a means, not an end. I had in In 1847, a book on Christian formation was
mind what I wrote openly to my kids: "I have printed, The cared-for young man. I'd written it
only one desire: to see you happy in time and losing many hours of sleep. The first words
in eternity". that my boys were reading were these: "the


first and foremost trick with which the Devil Games and happiness were for me a form of
sweeps away young souls from virtue is to let serious apostolate, of which I was deeply
them think that serving the Lord consists of a convinced. Since my boyhood, for me joy was
melancholic life far removed from all fun and an inseparable element from study, from work
pleasure. Not so, dear young people. I want to and from compassion. A lad from those early
teach you a Christian way of life which can at years remembering the 'heroic' years,
the same time make it cheerful and happy, in described them thus: "Thinking about how he
addition, those things which are real fun and ate and how he slept, now we wonder how he
real pleasure…. This precisely is the purpose had then been able to enjoy himself, without
of this booklet, serve the Lord, and be happy ".some t imes su f f e r i ng and w i t hou t


complaining. But we were happy, we lived for As you can see, for me joy has a deep
affection". religious significance. In my educational style


there was a balanced combination of sacred To live and pass on the joy was a form of life, a
and profane, of nature and of grace. The conscious choice of pedagogy in action. For
results didn't take long to appear, so much so, me, the lad was always a lad, his deep need
that in some autobiographical notes that I was was joy, freedom and playfulness. I found it
almost compelled to write, I could say: natural that I, a priest for the young, passed on
"Faithful to this mixture of devotion, to them the good and joyful news contained in
amusements and trips; everyone who the Gospel. And I did not have to do it with a
became part of the sign, were not only very stern face and in unfriendly and abrupt ways.
obedient to my commands, but were anxious Young people had to understand that for me
to help to carry out some task".having fun was something really serious! The


courtyard was my library, my chair where I I wasn't just satisfied that young people were
was at times both teacher and student; that cheerful; I wanted them to spread around this
joy is the Basic Law of youth. atmosphere of rejoicing, of enthusiasm, and


love of life; I wanted them to be builders of Increasing the value of theatre, music, song.
hope and joy. Missionaries to other young Organizing in minute detail the famous
people through the apostolate of happiness. A autumn walks.
contagious apostolate.


Fr Pascual Chavez SDB
RECTOR MAJOR




O N B O S C O must do so by staying in the
NARRATES grace of God, since the heart of


the young man who is in sin is I am known throughout
like the sea in continuous the world as a saint who
t u r m o i l " . T h a t ' s w h y I has openhandedly sown
remembered always that "joy so much joy. Indeed, as
comes from peace of heart". I someone who knew me
insisted: "I don't want anything personally wrote: I made
other than a young man who Christian joy "the eleventh
does what is good and is always c o m m a n d m e n t " . T h e
cheerful".experience convinced me that


you cannot work without this At times, someone comes to
wonderful educational drive, mind as the eternal acrobat of
this beautiful step ahead, which the Becchi and I think 'you can
is joy. And, what's more, do me a big favour'. But it is a
because my kids were deeply very reduced image of my ideal.
convinced. "If you want your life Games, rides, musical bands,
to be happy and peaceful, you theatrical performances and


The Devil is Afraid
of Happy People


r
ec


t
o


r
m


a
jo


r


Salesian NewslinkZMB 54 Salesian NewslinkZMB


Don Bosco
EDUCATOR


DD


festivals were a means, not an end. I had in In 1847, a book on Christian formation was
mind what I wrote openly to my kids: "I have printed, The cared-for young man. I'd written it
only one desire: to see you happy in time and losing many hours of sleep. The first words
in eternity". that my boys were reading were these: "the


first and foremost trick with which the Devil Games and happiness were for me a form of
sweeps away young souls from virtue is to let serious apostolate, of which I was deeply
them think that serving the Lord consists of a convinced. Since my boyhood, for me joy was
melancholic life far removed from all fun and an inseparable element from study, from work
pleasure. Not so, dear young people. I want to and from compassion. A lad from those early
teach you a Christian way of life which can at years remembering the 'heroic' years,
the same time make it cheerful and happy, in described them thus: "Thinking about how he
addition, those things which are real fun and ate and how he slept, now we wonder how he
real pleasure…. This precisely is the purpose had then been able to enjoy himself, without
of this booklet, serve the Lord, and be happy ".some t imes su f f e r i ng and w i t hou t


complaining. But we were happy, we lived for As you can see, for me joy has a deep
affection". religious significance. In my educational style


there was a balanced combination of sacred To live and pass on the joy was a form of life, a
and profane, of nature and of grace. The conscious choice of pedagogy in action. For
results didn't take long to appear, so much so, me, the lad was always a lad, his deep need
that in some autobiographical notes that I was was joy, freedom and playfulness. I found it
almost compelled to write, I could say: natural that I, a priest for the young, passed on
"Faithful to this mixture of devotion, to them the good and joyful news contained in
amusements and trips; everyone who the Gospel. And I did not have to do it with a
became part of the sign, were not only very stern face and in unfriendly and abrupt ways.
obedient to my commands, but were anxious Young people had to understand that for me
to help to carry out some task".having fun was something really serious! The


courtyard was my library, my chair where I I wasn't just satisfied that young people were
was at times both teacher and student; that cheerful; I wanted them to spread around this
joy is the Basic Law of youth. atmosphere of rejoicing, of enthusiasm, and


love of life; I wanted them to be builders of Increasing the value of theatre, music, song.
hope and joy. Missionaries to other young Organizing in minute detail the famous
people through the apostolate of happiness. A autumn walks.
contagious apostolate.


Fr Pascual Chavez SDB
RECTOR MAJOR




M


6 Salesian NewslinkZMB 7Salesian NewslinkZMB


"Thank you," the Pope said. "I have felt almost
physically in these days, which are not easy for me,
the power of prayer that the love of the Church,
your prayer, is bringing me. Continue to pray for
me, for the Church, for the future Pope, who will
lead us."
'The Church Belongs to Christ'
After the general audience, Jesuit Father Federico
Lombardi, director of the Vatican press office, met
with journalists to discuss the Holy Father's words rior to delivering his weekly General
and his schedule in the coming weeks.Audience address, Pope Benedict
Fr. Lombardi dwelt on the Holy Father's words at XVI spoke on his retirement set for
the start of the General Audience, since the Holy the end of the month. Thousands of pilgrims
Father "addressed the people of God directly" gathered at Paul VI Hall to express their support for
regarding his resignation. the Supreme Pontiff.
"The climate of the audience was profound and
touching," Father Lombardi noted."As you know, […] I have decided to give up the
The director of the press office also remarked on ministry that the Lord entrusted to me on April 19,
the importance of the Holy Father's certainty that 2005," the Holy Father said.
the Church belongs to Christ. "If anyone is having "I did this in full freedom for the good of the
difficulty with the Pope's decision, they may be Church, after having prayed at length and having
consoled that the Church is sustained by the grace examined my conscience before God, well aware
of God and of Christ," Fr. Lombardi said.of the seriousness of the act, but equally conscious
"The Holy Father" he continued, "felt the support of no longer being able to carry out the Petrine
and comfort of the prayers of the faithful, of the ministry with the strength that it requires."
people of God."Thanking the Church faithful for their support --
Speaking personally on the Pope's impending which was displayed with prolonged applause and
retirement, Fr. Lombardi expressed his admiration chants of 'Viva il Papa' (Long live the Pope) -- the
for the "free, humble, responsible, and lucid 85-year-old Pontiff conveyed his certainty that "the
decision made by the Holy Father."Church is Christ" and that He "will never allow it to
"We have seen him become fragile with time," the lack His leadership and care."
Jesuit acknowledged, "but it was up to him to The Holy Father thanked the faithful for the prayers
decide on the seriousness of his health."and love displayed, "with which you have


accompanied me."


Source: Zenit.org
| Vatican City, February 13, 2013


Junno Arocho EstevesThe Church belongs to


CHRIST


P


y Dear Friends, us. Just because of an apparent failure at the
first effort, we need not lose heart. We


There is a famous saying: continue struggling on and on. These trials
“Good people are like tea prove our worth. That we can handle
leaves; their real strength misunderstanding with equanimity of heart


comes out when they are in hot water”. We and mind and that we do not need to be
have entered the season of Lent. It is an crushed. If we meet with failure at the first
opportunity to look at ourselves and to see attempt, we try again.
which areas of our life we need to grow more Mother Theresa when she started her work for
and which areas of our life we need the poor and abandoned met with open
readjusting. hostility from people. They misinterpreted her
Our life is filled with temptations and goodness. She also struggled within herself
struggles. Jesus, the Son of God Himself was and was often tempted very seriously to doubt
not free from them. St Luke tells us in his if God ever loved her etc... But she came
description of the temptation scene: “And through it all abandoning herself to God. This
when the devil had ended every temptation, he is the clue to success in temptations and trials.
departed from him until an opportune time” We fall into the arms of God.
(Lk 4:13). I wish you all dear friends a very Happy
The temptation to play the glorious Messiah Easter. The Risen Jesus represents the fruit of
was always there in the life of Jesus – not only total surrender to God even if it was very
in the first temptation scenes. The devil will painful and dark as was on that Good Friday.
tempt him in the person of His disciples who May we fling ourselves into the arms of the
did not want to hear of his passion and death; Lord in loving surrender and experience the
and through the large crowds who followed wonder of His loving Presence close to us.
him and hung on to his every word, among During these days we were all surprised at the
whom he was very popular. The apostles news of the resignation of the Holy Father,
would seek places of honour in his kingdom Pope Benedict XVI. In all humility, he felt he
and argue about who was the greatest among was not able to serve the Church as he should.
them all. Their minds were fixed. Jesus The media is rife with speculations as to why
painstakingly tries to impress on them that he he resigned and as to who would be the next
did not come to re-establish the Jewish pope and what name he would take. I guess
kingdom, but the Kingdom of God where all these are unimportant. As he himself
men and women of every race language and requested of us, we continue to pray for him
way of life had a rightful place because and for his successor that our faith may
everyone is a child of God and has been continue to grow ever deeper in ourselves and
adopted by God. in many more peoples of the world.


Trials come our way, day in and day out – With best wishes and prayers,
failures, dangers, unpopularity, sacrifices.
These trials and difficulties we face are Yours aff.ly,
opportunities we have, to bring out the best in Fr George Chalissery SDB


THROUGH SUFFERING
to ENDLESS HAPPINESS


Fr. George Chalissery SDB
Provincial Superior of ZMB


Message from the Provincial




M


6 Salesian NewslinkZMB 7Salesian NewslinkZMB


"Thank you," the Pope said. "I have felt almost
physically in these days, which are not easy for me,
the power of prayer that the love of the Church,
your prayer, is bringing me. Continue to pray for
me, for the Church, for the future Pope, who will
lead us."
'The Church Belongs to Christ'
After the general audience, Jesuit Father Federico
Lombardi, director of the Vatican press office, met
with journalists to discuss the Holy Father's words rior to delivering his weekly General
and his schedule in the coming weeks.Audience address, Pope Benedict
Fr. Lombardi dwelt on the Holy Father's words at XVI spoke on his retirement set for
the start of the General Audience, since the Holy the end of the month. Thousands of pilgrims
Father "addressed the people of God directly" gathered at Paul VI Hall to express their support for
regarding his resignation. the Supreme Pontiff.
"The climate of the audience was profound and
touching," Father Lombardi noted."As you know, […] I have decided to give up the
The director of the press office also remarked on ministry that the Lord entrusted to me on April 19,
the importance of the Holy Father's certainty that 2005," the Holy Father said.
the Church belongs to Christ. "If anyone is having "I did this in full freedom for the good of the
difficulty with the Pope's decision, they may be Church, after having prayed at length and having
consoled that the Church is sustained by the grace examined my conscience before God, well aware
of God and of Christ," Fr. Lombardi said.of the seriousness of the act, but equally conscious
"The Holy Father" he continued, "felt the support of no longer being able to carry out the Petrine
and comfort of the prayers of the faithful, of the ministry with the strength that it requires."
people of God."Thanking the Church faithful for their support --
Speaking personally on the Pope's impending which was displayed with prolonged applause and
retirement, Fr. Lombardi expressed his admiration chants of 'Viva il Papa' (Long live the Pope) -- the
for the "free, humble, responsible, and lucid 85-year-old Pontiff conveyed his certainty that "the
decision made by the Holy Father."Church is Christ" and that He "will never allow it to
"We have seen him become fragile with time," the lack His leadership and care."
Jesuit acknowledged, "but it was up to him to The Holy Father thanked the faithful for the prayers
decide on the seriousness of his health."and love displayed, "with which you have


accompanied me."


Source: Zenit.org
| Vatican City, February 13, 2013


Junno Arocho EstevesThe Church belongs to


CHRIST


P


y Dear Friends, us. Just because of an apparent failure at the
first effort, we need not lose heart. We


There is a famous saying: continue struggling on and on. These trials
“Good people are like tea prove our worth. That we can handle
leaves; their real strength misunderstanding with equanimity of heart


comes out when they are in hot water”. We and mind and that we do not need to be
have entered the season of Lent. It is an crushed. If we meet with failure at the first
opportunity to look at ourselves and to see attempt, we try again.
which areas of our life we need to grow more Mother Theresa when she started her work for
and which areas of our life we need the poor and abandoned met with open
readjusting. hostility from people. They misinterpreted her
Our life is filled with temptations and goodness. She also struggled within herself
struggles. Jesus, the Son of God Himself was and was often tempted very seriously to doubt
not free from them. St Luke tells us in his if God ever loved her etc... But she came
description of the temptation scene: “And through it all abandoning herself to God. This
when the devil had ended every temptation, he is the clue to success in temptations and trials.
departed from him until an opportune time” We fall into the arms of God.
(Lk 4:13). I wish you all dear friends a very Happy
The temptation to play the glorious Messiah Easter. The Risen Jesus represents the fruit of
was always there in the life of Jesus – not only total surrender to God even if it was very
in the first temptation scenes. The devil will painful and dark as was on that Good Friday.
tempt him in the person of His disciples who May we fling ourselves into the arms of the
did not want to hear of his passion and death; Lord in loving surrender and experience the
and through the large crowds who followed wonder of His loving Presence close to us.
him and hung on to his every word, among During these days we were all surprised at the
whom he was very popular. The apostles news of the resignation of the Holy Father,
would seek places of honour in his kingdom Pope Benedict XVI. In all humility, he felt he
and argue about who was the greatest among was not able to serve the Church as he should.
them all. Their minds were fixed. Jesus The media is rife with speculations as to why
painstakingly tries to impress on them that he he resigned and as to who would be the next
did not come to re-establish the Jewish pope and what name he would take. I guess
kingdom, but the Kingdom of God where all these are unimportant. As he himself
men and women of every race language and requested of us, we continue to pray for him
way of life had a rightful place because and for his successor that our faith may
everyone is a child of God and has been continue to grow ever deeper in ourselves and
adopted by God. in many more peoples of the world.


Trials come our way, day in and day out – With best wishes and prayers,
failures, dangers, unpopularity, sacrifices.
These trials and difficulties we face are Yours aff.ly,
opportunities we have, to bring out the best in Fr George Chalissery SDB


THROUGH SUFFERING
to ENDLESS HAPPINESS


Fr. George Chalissery SDB
Provincial Superior of ZMB


Message from the Provincial




Tsabango - Lilongwe The Eucharist was the centre of
(MALAWI) 12/02/2013. the celebrations and it was
PROGRESS IN THE CHURCH presided by Fr. Oswald Mulenga,
BUILDING. rector of the community. The day
Fr. Patrick Makina sdb, parish ended with the giving away of
priest of St. John Bosco Parish in prices to the winners of the
Lilongwe Area 23, and the competi t ions and different
community are carrying out with performances
the construction of the church.
The target is the finishing off of the .Lusaka (ZAMBIA) 20/01/2013.- and the councilors the progress
floors with the terrazzo material Weekend Retreat for Salesian made in the church construction.
before proceeding on to fixing all Co-operators of Bauleni. The community also showed the
doors and windows. A small set Salesian Cooperators from council the constructions going on
back is found in the roof of the Bauleni gathered at the provincial at Don Bosco Outstation in
church that is currently leaking in house to participate in a weekend Makululu (Kabwe-Zambia). The
a few places. Two engineers were retreat organised by Fr. Lewis council will travel to Chingola for
called to the site in order to assess Malama sdb. The initiative came the second day of the provincial
the situation and come up with a from the group of Salesian Co- council. In Chingola, Fr. Slawek
viable solution. operators of Bauleni who annually Bartodziej showed the council the


gather to have days of study and damaged roof of the pre-novitiate,
reflection on the identity of the blown away during a heavy storm
Salesian Co-operator. This at the end of December 2012.
weekend retreat helped them to
evaluate their lives and pastoral
engagement as regards the year
2012 that is now over, and briefly
plan what is to come in the year
2013.The Provincial of ZMB, Fr.
George Chalissery SDB, helped
with a few sessions and with the
eucharistic celebration on the


Mansa - Chimese (ZAMBIA) second and third days. The group
01/03/2013. SOLEMNITY OF ST finish the weekend retreat with a
JOHN BOSCO. Nkhotakota (MALAWI) get together with the Salesian
Hundreds of kids gathered at Don 23/12/2012.- ATTACK ON A community of Chawama.
Bosco Youth Centre to celebrate CATHOLIC MISSION.
the Solemnity of St. John Bosco. One of the outstations of St.
The feast was prepared with the Paul’s Parish in Nkhotakota was
novena in honour of the Saint of burnt to the ground by an
youth, preached by Deacon unidentified group of people, most
Jerome Bwalya. On the feast day probably Muslim. The area where
dances, drills and other forms of the Catholic outstation is located
entertainment showed how much is predominantly Muslim and at
young people love Don Bosco. times hostile to Catholics. The


outstation is hardly 20 km from the
main parish church. The parish
priest of St. Paul, Fr. Jozef


Kabwe (ZAMBIA) 15/01/2013.- Czerwinski and the parish
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL. community are seeking ways to
The provincial and his council rebuild the outstation and to
visited Kabwe community in the s t r e n g t h e n t h e C a t h o l i c
first day of work. Fr. Mariusz and community.
Fr. Andrew showed the provincial


S WSalesian W dorl


8 Salesian NewslinkZMB 9Salesian NewslinkZMB


Nkhhotakota (Malawi) 01/02/2013.- Don Bosco High School won a local competition
in Literature and English Composition. Form II Students of Don Bosco High School in
Nkhotakota have won a local competition, which made them be ready to participate at the
district level. The winners were congratulated by the School Manager Fr. Christopher
Kunda SDB. The competition took place over the weekend and the pupils of Don Bosco
High stood tall during the exercise, showing to the jury how well prepared they were.
Don Bosco High School is quite new and this is its first year of operations. The local
community has welcomed the initiative of the local bishop Mgr. Ste Marie and the parish
community to put up a beautiful structure for the local kids who otherwise had to migrate
to neighbouring towns in search of a secondary school where to pursue their secondary
education.
Don Bosco High school is a project of the archdiocese of Lilongwe with the cooperation
of the Salesians of Don Bosco and partners from Europe (Manos Unidas) who sponsored
the construction of some of the classrooms and the administration block.
It is remarkable the presence of young volunteers from Don Bosco Mission (Bonn-
Germany) who teach English language and other subjects. The project is very promising
and it is an example of vision, cooperation and good will in promoting the education and
evangelisation of young people from the local community.


Don Bosco High School


NKHOTAKOTA


Motto:
“Enemies of Ignorance”


Salesian Schools




Tsabango - Lilongwe The Eucharist was the centre of
(MALAWI) 12/02/2013. the celebrations and it was
PROGRESS IN THE CHURCH presided by Fr. Oswald Mulenga,
BUILDING. rector of the community. The day
Fr. Patrick Makina sdb, parish ended with the giving away of
priest of St. John Bosco Parish in prices to the winners of the
Lilongwe Area 23, and the competi t ions and different
community are carrying out with performances
the construction of the church.
The target is the finishing off of the .Lusaka (ZAMBIA) 20/01/2013.- and the councilors the progress
floors with the terrazzo material Weekend Retreat for Salesian made in the church construction.
before proceeding on to fixing all Co-operators of Bauleni. The community also showed the
doors and windows. A small set Salesian Cooperators from council the constructions going on
back is found in the roof of the Bauleni gathered at the provincial at Don Bosco Outstation in
church that is currently leaking in house to participate in a weekend Makululu (Kabwe-Zambia). The
a few places. Two engineers were retreat organised by Fr. Lewis council will travel to Chingola for
called to the site in order to assess Malama sdb. The initiative came the second day of the provincial
the situation and come up with a from the group of Salesian Co- council. In Chingola, Fr. Slawek
viable solution. operators of Bauleni who annually Bartodziej showed the council the


gather to have days of study and damaged roof of the pre-novitiate,
reflection on the identity of the blown away during a heavy storm
Salesian Co-operator. This at the end of December 2012.
weekend retreat helped them to
evaluate their lives and pastoral
engagement as regards the year
2012 that is now over, and briefly
plan what is to come in the year
2013.The Provincial of ZMB, Fr.
George Chalissery SDB, helped
with a few sessions and with the
eucharistic celebration on the


Mansa - Chimese (ZAMBIA) second and third days. The group
01/03/2013. SOLEMNITY OF ST finish the weekend retreat with a
JOHN BOSCO. Nkhotakota (MALAWI) get together with the Salesian
Hundreds of kids gathered at Don 23/12/2012.- ATTACK ON A community of Chawama.
Bosco Youth Centre to celebrate CATHOLIC MISSION.
the Solemnity of St. John Bosco. One of the outstations of St.
The feast was prepared with the Paul’s Parish in Nkhotakota was
novena in honour of the Saint of burnt to the ground by an
youth, preached by Deacon unidentified group of people, most
Jerome Bwalya. On the feast day probably Muslim. The area where
dances, drills and other forms of the Catholic outstation is located
entertainment showed how much is predominantly Muslim and at
young people love Don Bosco. times hostile to Catholics. The


outstation is hardly 20 km from the
main parish church. The parish
priest of St. Paul, Fr. Jozef


Kabwe (ZAMBIA) 15/01/2013.- Czerwinski and the parish
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL. community are seeking ways to
The provincial and his council rebuild the outstation and to
visited Kabwe community in the s t r e n g t h e n t h e C a t h o l i c
first day of work. Fr. Mariusz and community.
Fr. Andrew showed the provincial


S WSalesian W dorl


8 Salesian NewslinkZMB 9Salesian NewslinkZMB


Nkhhotakota (Malawi) 01/02/2013.- Don Bosco High School won a local competition
in Literature and English Composition. Form II Students of Don Bosco High School in
Nkhotakota have won a local competition, which made them be ready to participate at the
district level. The winners were congratulated by the School Manager Fr. Christopher
Kunda SDB. The competition took place over the weekend and the pupils of Don Bosco
High stood tall during the exercise, showing to the jury how well prepared they were.
Don Bosco High School is quite new and this is its first year of operations. The local
community has welcomed the initiative of the local bishop Mgr. Ste Marie and the parish
community to put up a beautiful structure for the local kids who otherwise had to migrate
to neighbouring towns in search of a secondary school where to pursue their secondary
education.
Don Bosco High school is a project of the archdiocese of Lilongwe with the cooperation
of the Salesians of Don Bosco and partners from Europe (Manos Unidas) who sponsored
the construction of some of the classrooms and the administration block.
It is remarkable the presence of young volunteers from Don Bosco Mission (Bonn-
Germany) who teach English language and other subjects. The project is very promising
and it is an example of vision, cooperation and good will in promoting the education and
evangelisation of young people from the local community.


Don Bosco High School


NKHOTAKOTA


Motto:
“Enemies of Ignorance”


Salesian Schools




By Innocent Haingura


Young People &
the Year of Faith


Catholic Students of Rundu
make a remarkable step of
Spiritual Formation


10 Salesian NewslinkZMB 11Salesian NewslinkZMB


t is quite sad to witness that our Church
(Catholic) has become the centre of misleading
and groundless criticism, a situation that has
shaken up the faith of a considerable number of
lay members of the Catholic Church. Sadly
enough, among those struggling to keep and


maintain good spiritual norms promoted by our church are the
young. Without any doubt this is an issue that requires
immediate response beginning with the local communities of
Catholic believers.


A group of students belonging to St. Mary's Parish in Rundu
decided to organised a spiritual workshop for Catholic students
of the neighbourhoods of Rundu district. They aimed at sharing
their faith experience with one another, searching for ways to
put an end to the confusion on the basics of the Catholic faith
that prevails at all levels.
The event was held at Don Bosco Youth Centre in Rundu and
the majority of attendants were students. The theme of the
workshop was “THE WORKS AND FAITH OF A CATHOLIC
STUDENT”, which follows a important truth: 'young people
need to participate in the pastoral and service work performed
in their parishes or Christian communities'.


The programme was guided by Dn. Jerome Bwalya SDB, with
collaboration of Fr. Jerzy Szurgot, the youth chaplain and Fr.
Henry Juszczyk, the parish priest of St. Mary's mission.
Dn. Jerome spoke on the topic “Devotion and Consistency in YOUTHS IN RUNDU” as well as a
the Church”. His presentation helped students become aware of group titled “RUNDU CATHOLIC
the rich tradition of the Catholic Church which comes down to YOUTHS”, which was found to be a
us through the centuries. On the side of the students, the topic medium that can aid sharing of
entitled “Healthy desires among the Catholic youths” was educative matters which are essential to
presented by Meinolf Simbenda. He reminded students to put the lives of Catholic Student Christians.
God first in their life, family and studies, wherever they are, The newly enlarged group also
whatever they do. An opportunity was also granted to the promised to hold weekly meetings to
candidates to share their views, raising questions or comments discuss and work on ideas of equal
on the contents of the two talks and also on matters of relevant relevance alongside other groups at the
interest. parish and the diocese or vicariate as a
The workshop was well attended and the talks were welcomed whole. The next step is planning of a
by the participants with interest. As a way of a concrete plan of lager gathering in June, so as to increase
action, they proposed a reliable way of communication that can our witness on the Catholic Faith in this
keep them and other Catholic youths in touch. This comes true year of Faith.
in the creation of a Facebook page titled ”CATHOLIC


Y
o


u
h


t
M


in
is


tr
y


-
N


A
M


IB
IA


I At Valdocco, Don Bosco's first duty was that of educating young people. The most visible aspect of this effort was the school. He conducted his school as an
apostolate to which all his energy and every available time was dedicated to. We
could ask ourselves: Did ever Don Bosco seek anything for himself? The whole
purpose of his existence as a young priest was the welfare of young people who
came to him, especially the most neglected and marginalised. That is what is
most perceived in Don Bosco.
Objectively speaking, as a priest, educator and teacher, for Don Bosco the
formation of the youngsters was the burning concern of his mind. He aimed at
reaching out all the dimensions of the human person. A holistic training of the
youth was his main purpose. Looking at Don Bosco we can say that he knew
'how' to integrate and motivate in the young the love for learning different skills
(studies), the art of living (moral life), intellectual formation and the 'formation
of the heart'(good behaviour).
He was an expert in nurturing of whole process of maturing of their personalities
which he encountered.
He based his method of education on three pillars: Reason, Religion and Loving-
kindness. Looking at the three pillars, a crucial and reflective conclusion can be
drawn: “Don Bosco as a educator went beyond mechanical learning (mere
knowledge); his was a model of 'learning to learn' and to reason.
Comparing Don Bosco with old philosophers I can say that Don Bosco's
approach to the young inductive, in a way he used the Socratic Method (a
dialogical relation); a method which today's digital continent seems to be
regarded as of no use.
A face-to-face-dialogue is really a challenge for all today. This is because of the
new culture brought about by the Media. Many youth are found in the digital
world exploring and searching for meaning; yet this is not a face-to-face-meeting
with others.
In this “digital world” responding to the challenges the youth are facing, Don
Bosco would continue to say, 'courage and go where they [young people] are to
be found'.
Don Bosco's method was perhaps one of the most adequate in the education of
the young. Through this method boys were able to communicate the different
skills acquired, while building up an expressive and a critical style. By imitating
Don Bosco's method and while reading the signs of the times, it is possible to be
in a position to offer to the young people a culture that is not an end in itself but
which puts them in a position of making responsible decisions in their lives, as
means to adulthood, summarised as becoming “good Christians and honest
citizens”. One big challenge for all of us Salesians is to apply the aspect of the
school “being the place for the formation of the heart” to reach out the young of


By Br. Flavius Chikadzu SDB


School and the Digital World:
A CHALLENGE


TO THE EDUCATION TO THE HEART


From the 26th to the 31st of
December the youth of
KA.RU.WA parish in Harare
had their annual pilgrimage.
This year the pilgrimage was
in Masvingo at Gokomere
mission. The theme of the
pilgrimage was “Youth in the
Year of Faith.”
The pilgrimage was not only
attended by the youth from our
parish but also by some youth
from Kariba and Masvingo.
The pilgrimage became a time
of strengthening of our faith
and a time to rest at the end of
the year.
Apart from the prayers and
learning more about our faith
we also had a chance to visit
the ruins of the “Great
Zimbabwe” as well as Lake
Mutirikwi. These places are
very beautiful, so much so that
they reminded me of God the
author of them all.
We also had a chance to go to
the grotto of Our Lady which
is at Gokomere mission. The
environment at the grotto is
very conducive for prayer and
it puts you in a reflective
mood, helping you get in
closer union with God.


Young People
and
the Year of Faith
Harare - Zimbabwe


By Joackim Mzanywa sdb




By Innocent Haingura


Young People &
the Year of Faith


Catholic Students of Rundu
make a remarkable step of
Spiritual Formation


10 Salesian NewslinkZMB 11Salesian NewslinkZMB


t is quite sad to witness that our Church
(Catholic) has become the centre of misleading
and groundless criticism, a situation that has
shaken up the faith of a considerable number of
lay members of the Catholic Church. Sadly
enough, among those struggling to keep and


maintain good spiritual norms promoted by our church are the
young. Without any doubt this is an issue that requires
immediate response beginning with the local communities of
Catholic believers.


A group of students belonging to St. Mary's Parish in Rundu
decided to organised a spiritual workshop for Catholic students
of the neighbourhoods of Rundu district. They aimed at sharing
their faith experience with one another, searching for ways to
put an end to the confusion on the basics of the Catholic faith
that prevails at all levels.
The event was held at Don Bosco Youth Centre in Rundu and
the majority of attendants were students. The theme of the
workshop was “THE WORKS AND FAITH OF A CATHOLIC
STUDENT”, which follows a important truth: 'young people
need to participate in the pastoral and service work performed
in their parishes or Christian communities'.


The programme was guided by Dn. Jerome Bwalya SDB, with
collaboration of Fr. Jerzy Szurgot, the youth chaplain and Fr.
Henry Juszczyk, the parish priest of St. Mary's mission.
Dn. Jerome spoke on the topic “Devotion and Consistency in YOUTHS IN RUNDU” as well as a
the Church”. His presentation helped students become aware of group titled “RUNDU CATHOLIC
the rich tradition of the Catholic Church which comes down to YOUTHS”, which was found to be a
us through the centuries. On the side of the students, the topic medium that can aid sharing of
entitled “Healthy desires among the Catholic youths” was educative matters which are essential to
presented by Meinolf Simbenda. He reminded students to put the lives of Catholic Student Christians.
God first in their life, family and studies, wherever they are, The newly enlarged group also
whatever they do. An opportunity was also granted to the promised to hold weekly meetings to
candidates to share their views, raising questions or comments discuss and work on ideas of equal
on the contents of the two talks and also on matters of relevant relevance alongside other groups at the
interest. parish and the diocese or vicariate as a
The workshop was well attended and the talks were welcomed whole. The next step is planning of a
by the participants with interest. As a way of a concrete plan of lager gathering in June, so as to increase
action, they proposed a reliable way of communication that can our witness on the Catholic Faith in this
keep them and other Catholic youths in touch. This comes true year of Faith.
in the creation of a Facebook page titled ”CATHOLIC


Y
o


u
h


t
M


in
is


tr
y


-
N


A
M


IB
IA


I At Valdocco, Don Bosco's first duty was that of educating young people. The most visible aspect of this effort was the school. He conducted his school as an
apostolate to which all his energy and every available time was dedicated to. We
could ask ourselves: Did ever Don Bosco seek anything for himself? The whole
purpose of his existence as a young priest was the welfare of young people who
came to him, especially the most neglected and marginalised. That is what is
most perceived in Don Bosco.
Objectively speaking, as a priest, educator and teacher, for Don Bosco the
formation of the youngsters was the burning concern of his mind. He aimed at
reaching out all the dimensions of the human person. A holistic training of the
youth was his main purpose. Looking at Don Bosco we can say that he knew
'how' to integrate and motivate in the young the love for learning different skills
(studies), the art of living (moral life), intellectual formation and the 'formation
of the heart'(good behaviour).
He was an expert in nurturing of whole process of maturing of their personalities
which he encountered.
He based his method of education on three pillars: Reason, Religion and Loving-
kindness. Looking at the three pillars, a crucial and reflective conclusion can be
drawn: “Don Bosco as a educator went beyond mechanical learning (mere
knowledge); his was a model of 'learning to learn' and to reason.
Comparing Don Bosco with old philosophers I can say that Don Bosco's
approach to the young inductive, in a way he used the Socratic Method (a
dialogical relation); a method which today's digital continent seems to be
regarded as of no use.
A face-to-face-dialogue is really a challenge for all today. This is because of the
new culture brought about by the Media. Many youth are found in the digital
world exploring and searching for meaning; yet this is not a face-to-face-meeting
with others.
In this “digital world” responding to the challenges the youth are facing, Don
Bosco would continue to say, 'courage and go where they [young people] are to
be found'.
Don Bosco's method was perhaps one of the most adequate in the education of
the young. Through this method boys were able to communicate the different
skills acquired, while building up an expressive and a critical style. By imitating
Don Bosco's method and while reading the signs of the times, it is possible to be
in a position to offer to the young people a culture that is not an end in itself but
which puts them in a position of making responsible decisions in their lives, as
means to adulthood, summarised as becoming “good Christians and honest
citizens”. One big challenge for all of us Salesians is to apply the aspect of the
school “being the place for the formation of the heart” to reach out the young of


By Br. Flavius Chikadzu SDB


School and the Digital World:
A CHALLENGE


TO THE EDUCATION TO THE HEART


From the 26th to the 31st of
December the youth of
KA.RU.WA parish in Harare
had their annual pilgrimage.
This year the pilgrimage was
in Masvingo at Gokomere
mission. The theme of the
pilgrimage was “Youth in the
Year of Faith.”
The pilgrimage was not only
attended by the youth from our
parish but also by some youth
from Kariba and Masvingo.
The pilgrimage became a time
of strengthening of our faith
and a time to rest at the end of
the year.
Apart from the prayers and
learning more about our faith
we also had a chance to visit
the ruins of the “Great
Zimbabwe” as well as Lake
Mutirikwi. These places are
very beautiful, so much so that
they reminded me of God the
author of them all.
We also had a chance to go to
the grotto of Our Lady which
is at Gokomere mission. The
environment at the grotto is
very conducive for prayer and
it puts you in a reflective
mood, helping you get in
closer union with God.


Young People
and
the Year of Faith
Harare - Zimbabwe


By Joackim Mzanywa sdb




they divorce.
However, the face of


God has continued shining in the
words and deeds of the lives of
men of faith. Saint Dominic Savio
is known for living a pure life and
selection of companions and his
dictum better to die rather than sin
still resounds in our days. If God
commands that there is no sex
before and outside marriage, we
need to believe the Scripture and
obey it. God always wishes us
well and when He commands
even the things that seem difficult
and not very appealing, but he has
a good reason. Abstaining from
sex before marriage is possible
once we cut off the roots of
materials that feed the mind with
ideologies of sex and understand
t h e g i f t o f m a r r i a g e o n
sociological and religious values. e are living in a propose values which they have
Sex is a matter of the mind. Faith sexually saturated given up on or do not put efforts in
comes from what we see, listen to s o c i e t y. Yo u n g living them up. With this
and watch. Eventually, a human p e o p l e b e c o m e environment, people think it is not
person begins to believe in what sexually active as possible to live a pure life. As a
he/she sees, listens to and early as 12 or earlier, a thing celibate, a lot of people have
watches. When a person gets which was a taboo in the past in asked me how I do live. They
married he gives himself/herself many cultures. The reason is that seem to be sympathizing with me
to the spouse her/his whole being people of all ages and walks of life as though I am suffering. I tried to
and not a body which has been are having access to materials explain but in the end I find
joined emotionally and spiritually involving sexual related activities myself only having inadequate of
through sex to different bodies through magazines, websites, words to make them understand.
prior to marriage. Above all, music, etc that are full of words The sexual explosion is
abstaining from sex before and sexual message. Adverts on merely an illusion to the deeper
marriage is a free choice, which a television associated to sex make aspiration of people. Pope John
person has to prepare to live people become more familiar and Paul II said that there is something
without fear as he/she is going to addicted to sex. We no longer deeper than the urge of sex and
go against the grain not have any reverence to the mystery that is the desire to love. The
conforming to the temptations of and sacredness of it. On the distortion of the value of sex is the
the society. One will need first of newspapers, we are presented result of lack of understanding the
all to believe that it is possible to with sexual abuses of children and value of the institute of marriage.
live a chaste and dignified life and gang rapes. This kind of news no Marriage needs to be promoted
overcome the temptations of sex longer shock people, but gives and strengthened as they are the
by trusting in God who guides, only a sense of sadness for the remedy to human affection and
s u p p o r t s , c o n s o l e s a n d v i c t i m s . I t i s b e c o m i n g love which many people are
strengthens a person through preferential to have sex and live lacking in our society. People,
prayer, spiritual readings and single, carefree lives. The people, who are denied of human
spiritual direction. The other way who are supposed to safeguard attention, turn to find attention in
is to have a good network of morality in our societies, are also other distorted behaviours such as
friends, with whom a person gui l t of sexual scandals . illicit sexual relationships,
shares the similar faith and vision Henceforth, a lot of people have pornography and masturbation.
of life and with whom they will found it hard to believe that it is When a man and a woman enter
love, encourage and support each possible to live a chaste life. Some into a sexual relationship before
other to maintain the life of purity. spiritual mentors and moral marriage they confuse sexual
It would be good to pay heed to agents are seemingly having pleasure with love. They are not in
the words of St Paul to the accepted to live double lives. love, but in lust, and this may be
Ephesians regarding sex. (Eph 5: They are separating their being the reason why those who marry
1-7)from their roles in society. They after living together eventually


H


VII PROVINCIAL CHAPTERThinking Point


Br. Walter challenges all
to reflect on the documents


of the Provincial Chapter
focusing on the essentials


H


12 Salesian NewslinkZMB 13Salesian NewslinkZMB


ello, thinking people!


I missed the last issue again and the same excuse, I
was too busy with my Examination at the University. I had to
think about it and I could not share.
A lot have happened since then, we are in the New Year now and
there is a plenty to think about. Christmas has passed quite fast
and we are now in lent and preparing for Easter. Time flies. Then
what now? Of course the VII Provincial Chapter is next. Are we
thinking about it?
I hope we have read the 48 pages VI Provincial Chapter
document of 2010. Or it "lies neglected among piles of other
documents" as the provincial wrote in its introduction.
Personally I enjoy reading it and occasionally amused by it.
Look at art. 105 on page 30, I read it to my confreres in the
community and they too enjoyed it. The Directory spells out
everything for our mission and daily life from Youth Ministry,
Formation, Communication to Administration. It provides
guidelines to start afresh from Don Bosco and asks us to change
our mentality to New Frontiers. But if we have not "read, studied
and reflected on its context" then it will be of no use and why
getting ready to make another document or add more pages to
the one we already have?
It is a requirement by our constitution, -clear enough. So we
have to do it. The able team of animators are moving around the
communities to help in reflection and preparation. We hope all
the efforts will bring good results. Now the date is set, the
delegates elected and the agenda agreed. What is to be seen is if
the Chapter will lead us towards a different direction and a new
destination.


My cynical fear is that the Chapter Fathers and Brothers will
spend a lot of time discussing and arguing on petty matters like,
how long should the holidays be? How much money should be
granted for holidays? And can we take a car for holidays, or it is
a privilege of a few only? Or similar issues, instead of being
daring to answer the call of 'radicalism' that we may have to
adopt by force rather than by choice.


The simple question is: Will this Chapter be of any benefit? Will
it be different than the ones we have had in the recent past?


What do you think?


Br Walter Thyrniang SDB


and the challenge to be radical
in living up our consecration


Is it possible to live
a life of abstinence from
sex before marriage
in today’s society?


By Alphoncious Hamweete SDB


W




they divorce.
However, the face of


God has continued shining in the
words and deeds of the lives of
men of faith. Saint Dominic Savio
is known for living a pure life and
selection of companions and his
dictum better to die rather than sin
still resounds in our days. If God
commands that there is no sex
before and outside marriage, we
need to believe the Scripture and
obey it. God always wishes us
well and when He commands
even the things that seem difficult
and not very appealing, but he has
a good reason. Abstaining from
sex before marriage is possible
once we cut off the roots of
materials that feed the mind with
ideologies of sex and understand
t h e g i f t o f m a r r i a g e o n
sociological and religious values. e are living in a propose values which they have
Sex is a matter of the mind. Faith sexually saturated given up on or do not put efforts in
comes from what we see, listen to s o c i e t y. Yo u n g living them up. With this
and watch. Eventually, a human p e o p l e b e c o m e environment, people think it is not
person begins to believe in what sexually active as possible to live a pure life. As a
he/she sees, listens to and early as 12 or earlier, a thing celibate, a lot of people have
watches. When a person gets which was a taboo in the past in asked me how I do live. They
married he gives himself/herself many cultures. The reason is that seem to be sympathizing with me
to the spouse her/his whole being people of all ages and walks of life as though I am suffering. I tried to
and not a body which has been are having access to materials explain but in the end I find
joined emotionally and spiritually involving sexual related activities myself only having inadequate of
through sex to different bodies through magazines, websites, words to make them understand.
prior to marriage. Above all, music, etc that are full of words The sexual explosion is
abstaining from sex before and sexual message. Adverts on merely an illusion to the deeper
marriage is a free choice, which a television associated to sex make aspiration of people. Pope John
person has to prepare to live people become more familiar and Paul II said that there is something
without fear as he/she is going to addicted to sex. We no longer deeper than the urge of sex and
go against the grain not have any reverence to the mystery that is the desire to love. The
conforming to the temptations of and sacredness of it. On the distortion of the value of sex is the
the society. One will need first of newspapers, we are presented result of lack of understanding the
all to believe that it is possible to with sexual abuses of children and value of the institute of marriage.
live a chaste and dignified life and gang rapes. This kind of news no Marriage needs to be promoted
overcome the temptations of sex longer shock people, but gives and strengthened as they are the
by trusting in God who guides, only a sense of sadness for the remedy to human affection and
s u p p o r t s , c o n s o l e s a n d v i c t i m s . I t i s b e c o m i n g love which many people are
strengthens a person through preferential to have sex and live lacking in our society. People,
prayer, spiritual readings and single, carefree lives. The people, who are denied of human
spiritual direction. The other way who are supposed to safeguard attention, turn to find attention in
is to have a good network of morality in our societies, are also other distorted behaviours such as
friends, with whom a person gui l t of sexual scandals . illicit sexual relationships,
shares the similar faith and vision Henceforth, a lot of people have pornography and masturbation.
of life and with whom they will found it hard to believe that it is When a man and a woman enter
love, encourage and support each possible to live a chaste life. Some into a sexual relationship before
other to maintain the life of purity. spiritual mentors and moral marriage they confuse sexual
It would be good to pay heed to agents are seemingly having pleasure with love. They are not in
the words of St Paul to the accepted to live double lives. love, but in lust, and this may be
Ephesians regarding sex. (Eph 5: They are separating their being the reason why those who marry
1-7)from their roles in society. They after living together eventually


H


VII PROVINCIAL CHAPTERThinking Point


Br. Walter challenges all
to reflect on the documents


of the Provincial Chapter
focusing on the essentials


H


12 Salesian NewslinkZMB 13Salesian NewslinkZMB


ello, thinking people!


I missed the last issue again and the same excuse, I
was too busy with my Examination at the University. I had to
think about it and I could not share.
A lot have happened since then, we are in the New Year now and
there is a plenty to think about. Christmas has passed quite fast
and we are now in lent and preparing for Easter. Time flies. Then
what now? Of course the VII Provincial Chapter is next. Are we
thinking about it?
I hope we have read the 48 pages VI Provincial Chapter
document of 2010. Or it "lies neglected among piles of other
documents" as the provincial wrote in its introduction.
Personally I enjoy reading it and occasionally amused by it.
Look at art. 105 on page 30, I read it to my confreres in the
community and they too enjoyed it. The Directory spells out
everything for our mission and daily life from Youth Ministry,
Formation, Communication to Administration. It provides
guidelines to start afresh from Don Bosco and asks us to change
our mentality to New Frontiers. But if we have not "read, studied
and reflected on its context" then it will be of no use and why
getting ready to make another document or add more pages to
the one we already have?
It is a requirement by our constitution, -clear enough. So we
have to do it. The able team of animators are moving around the
communities to help in reflection and preparation. We hope all
the efforts will bring good results. Now the date is set, the
delegates elected and the agenda agreed. What is to be seen is if
the Chapter will lead us towards a different direction and a new
destination.


My cynical fear is that the Chapter Fathers and Brothers will
spend a lot of time discussing and arguing on petty matters like,
how long should the holidays be? How much money should be
granted for holidays? And can we take a car for holidays, or it is
a privilege of a few only? Or similar issues, instead of being
daring to answer the call of 'radicalism' that we may have to
adopt by force rather than by choice.


The simple question is: Will this Chapter be of any benefit? Will
it be different than the ones we have had in the recent past?


What do you think?


Br Walter Thyrniang SDB


and the challenge to be radical
in living up our consecration


Is it possible to live
a life of abstinence from
sex before marriage
in today’s society?


By Alphoncious Hamweete SDB


W




(ANS – Città del Vaticano) – (ANS – Nairobi) – 15/2/2013.
22/02/2013.- NEW SALESIAN COME & CELEBRATE YOUR
BISHOP . FAITH.


(ANS Nairobi) 16/2/2013 –
MEETING FOR
COORDINATORS OF
FORMATION OF CIVAM.


(ANS - Turin) 31/01/2013.
Conclusion of the Consulta for
the Missions at Valdocco.


(ANS Lubumbashi) 14/02/2012,
L u b u m b a s h i . S O C I A L
COMMUNICATION - AFRICA.


The Holy Father Benedict XVI has The grounds at Don Bosco Youth
nominated Fr. Miguel Angel Garcia Educational Services (DBYES),
Arroniz, sdb, new bishop of the Nairobi were filled with young
diocese of Pointe-Noire, in the students from various secondary
Republic of Congo. Fr. Miguel and technical schools around the
Angel was appointed as Apostolic city and outskirts on 3 February.
Administrator of the same diocese The youngsters had come


people: one representative from on 31 March 2013. together to celebrate their faith at
each language group of the region the “C'mon & Celebrate” event,
(English & French) together with and to consider it in the light of the
the Provincial in-charge of Bible. The programme began with
communication of the CIVAM (Fr. Morning Prayer, a blessing, and a
Fausto Garcia) were trying to talk on “Faith and/in the Bible” by
make an Africa Salesian Social The 6th meeting of Regional Capuchin priest Fr Christopher
Communication System (ASSCS) Coordinators for Formation for all M u s y o k a . Yo u n g p e o p l e
basing on the Salesian Social regions in the Congregation discussed the topics introduced by
Communication System (SSCS) concluded on Saturday 16 the speaker and had a chance to
of the Congregation. This will be February in Nairobi. This meeting
finalized in the meeting of all the was the final one for the 2008-
SC delegates of the Region in 2014 period; three meetings have
November 2013. The draft will also occurred in this period while a
be presented in the World further three took place in the
Consulta which will take place in previous period, 2002-2008.
Rome in April 2013.These days saw a work of


evaluation of the Rector Major and
Genera l Counc i l ' s Pro jec t
regarding the formation sector.
They looked at their departure


Delegates from all regions of the point, objectives achieved and ask questions; also to go to Congregation were gathered at those still to be achieved. All of this Confession. Mass was at midday Valdocco-Turin with the Rector work has been summed up in a followed by lunch. The programme Major and the General councillor written contribution as a report to aimed at following up the for Missions, Fr. Vaclav Klement.the Rector Major for the 27th discovery of Christian faith The meeting aimed at reflecting on G e n e r a l C h a p t e r ( G C 2 7 ) launched with the Year of Faith. “In the findings of the various regional regarding formation. Fr. Cereda this way we hope to educate encounters which took place in the was present together with Fr. Chris young people to faith and help past years and recently in Addis Saldanha. them feel proud of what they Ababa for the Africa-Madagascar
professed at Baptism”, explained Region.
Fr Sebastian Koladiyil, Director of
DBYES.


A
meeting of the “Africa Regional
C o n s u l t a ” o f t h e S o c i a l
communication took place in
Lubumbashi DR Congo. Three


S WSalesian dorl
ANS


14 Salesian NewslinkZMB 15Salesian NewslinkZMB


My dear Confreres, Sisters,
Members of the entire Salesian Family,
Friends of Don Bosco:


Greetings with the heart of Don Bosco from Mexico where I have come
to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Guadalajara Province, my Province
of origin.
Although profoundly surprised by the news just received of the
decision of the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, to resign from guiding the
“Barque of Peter” and confirming his brethren in faith through the
proclamation of the Gospel, witness of life, suffering and prayer, we are
edified by this exemplary and prophetic gesture.
In offering his resignation, motivated by age and tiredness, the
consequence of his solicitude in accompanying the Church at a time
marked by profound and rapid social change touching on both faith
and Christian life, and that demand much physical and spiritual
energy, the Holy Father says that he placed himself in an attitude of
discernment before God.
His decisions, then, is the result of prayer and an exemplary sign of
obedience to God! Such an attitude cannot but give rise to our greatest
admiration and esteem.
Once again this is a case of a typical trait of his: humility, which makes
him free before God and man and makes his sense of responsibility so
evident.
While we express our gratitude to the Holy Father, as Don Bosco would
have done, for the generosity with which he has served the Church and
has expressed his fatherliness with regard to our own Family, we
accompany him in this stage of his life with much affection and prayer.
From this point on we pray for the Church, calling on the Holy Spirit to
guide this moment of conclusion of a Pontificate and the convocation
and celebration of the Conclave.
We entrust the Holy Father and the whole Church to Mary the
Immaculate, Help of Christians as we liturgically commemorate Our
Lady of Lourdes. May She continue to manifest herself, as She has done
throughout history, as Mother and Teacher.
In communion of hearts and prayers.


Fr Pascual Chávez V., SDB
Rector Major


Letter to the SALESIAN FAMILY


Our Love and Gratitude to you,
HOLY FATHER!


(ANS – Rome) –
As soon as
he became aware that
Pope Benedict XVI
had announced
he would be giving up
his ministry as Bishop
of Rome and Successor
of St Peter,
the Rector Major chose
to address a message
to the whole
Salesian Family.


Fr. Pascual Chavez SDB
RECTOR MAJOR




(ANS – Città del Vaticano) – (ANS – Nairobi) – 15/2/2013.
22/02/2013.- NEW SALESIAN COME & CELEBRATE YOUR
BISHOP . FAITH.


(ANS Nairobi) 16/2/2013 –
MEETING FOR
COORDINATORS OF
FORMATION OF CIVAM.


(ANS - Turin) 31/01/2013.
Conclusion of the Consulta for
the Missions at Valdocco.


(ANS Lubumbashi) 14/02/2012,
L u b u m b a s h i . S O C I A L
COMMUNICATION - AFRICA.


The Holy Father Benedict XVI has The grounds at Don Bosco Youth
nominated Fr. Miguel Angel Garcia Educational Services (DBYES),
Arroniz, sdb, new bishop of the Nairobi were filled with young
diocese of Pointe-Noire, in the students from various secondary
Republic of Congo. Fr. Miguel and technical schools around the
Angel was appointed as Apostolic city and outskirts on 3 February.
Administrator of the same diocese The youngsters had come


people: one representative from on 31 March 2013. together to celebrate their faith at
each language group of the region the “C'mon & Celebrate” event,
(English & French) together with and to consider it in the light of the
the Provincial in-charge of Bible. The programme began with
communication of the CIVAM (Fr. Morning Prayer, a blessing, and a
Fausto Garcia) were trying to talk on “Faith and/in the Bible” by
make an Africa Salesian Social The 6th meeting of Regional Capuchin priest Fr Christopher
Communication System (ASSCS) Coordinators for Formation for all M u s y o k a . Yo u n g p e o p l e
basing on the Salesian Social regions in the Congregation discussed the topics introduced by
Communication System (SSCS) concluded on Saturday 16 the speaker and had a chance to
of the Congregation. This will be February in Nairobi. This meeting
finalized in the meeting of all the was the final one for the 2008-
SC delegates of the Region in 2014 period; three meetings have
November 2013. The draft will also occurred in this period while a
be presented in the World further three took place in the
Consulta which will take place in previous period, 2002-2008.
Rome in April 2013.These days saw a work of


evaluation of the Rector Major and
Genera l Counc i l ' s Pro jec t
regarding the formation sector.
They looked at their departure


Delegates from all regions of the point, objectives achieved and ask questions; also to go to Congregation were gathered at those still to be achieved. All of this Confession. Mass was at midday Valdocco-Turin with the Rector work has been summed up in a followed by lunch. The programme Major and the General councillor written contribution as a report to aimed at following up the for Missions, Fr. Vaclav Klement.the Rector Major for the 27th discovery of Christian faith The meeting aimed at reflecting on G e n e r a l C h a p t e r ( G C 2 7 ) launched with the Year of Faith. “In the findings of the various regional regarding formation. Fr. Cereda this way we hope to educate encounters which took place in the was present together with Fr. Chris young people to faith and help past years and recently in Addis Saldanha. them feel proud of what they Ababa for the Africa-Madagascar
professed at Baptism”, explained Region.
Fr Sebastian Koladiyil, Director of
DBYES.


A
meeting of the “Africa Regional
C o n s u l t a ” o f t h e S o c i a l
communication took place in
Lubumbashi DR Congo. Three


S WSalesian dorl
ANS


14 Salesian NewslinkZMB 15Salesian NewslinkZMB


My dear Confreres, Sisters,
Members of the entire Salesian Family,
Friends of Don Bosco:


Greetings with the heart of Don Bosco from Mexico where I have come
to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Guadalajara Province, my Province
of origin.
Although profoundly surprised by the news just received of the
decision of the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, to resign from guiding the
“Barque of Peter” and confirming his brethren in faith through the
proclamation of the Gospel, witness of life, suffering and prayer, we are
edified by this exemplary and prophetic gesture.
In offering his resignation, motivated by age and tiredness, the
consequence of his solicitude in accompanying the Church at a time
marked by profound and rapid social change touching on both faith
and Christian life, and that demand much physical and spiritual
energy, the Holy Father says that he placed himself in an attitude of
discernment before God.
His decisions, then, is the result of prayer and an exemplary sign of
obedience to God! Such an attitude cannot but give rise to our greatest
admiration and esteem.
Once again this is a case of a typical trait of his: humility, which makes
him free before God and man and makes his sense of responsibility so
evident.
While we express our gratitude to the Holy Father, as Don Bosco would
have done, for the generosity with which he has served the Church and
has expressed his fatherliness with regard to our own Family, we
accompany him in this stage of his life with much affection and prayer.
From this point on we pray for the Church, calling on the Holy Spirit to
guide this moment of conclusion of a Pontificate and the convocation
and celebration of the Conclave.
We entrust the Holy Father and the whole Church to Mary the
Immaculate, Help of Christians as we liturgically commemorate Our
Lady of Lourdes. May She continue to manifest herself, as She has done
throughout history, as Mother and Teacher.
In communion of hearts and prayers.


Fr Pascual Chávez V., SDB
Rector Major


Letter to the SALESIAN FAMILY


Our Love and Gratitude to you,
HOLY FATHER!


(ANS – Rome) –
As soon as
he became aware that
Pope Benedict XVI
had announced
he would be giving up
his ministry as Bishop
of Rome and Successor
of St Peter,
the Rector Major chose
to address a message
to the whole
Salesian Family.


Fr. Pascual Chavez SDB
RECTOR MAJOR




SING AND PRAY


Sing and Pray is a comprehensive Hymn and
Prayer book compiled specifically for Salesian
Communities and Salesian Family. The book is
designed to be used in religious communities
and for liturgical celebrations with young
people. It has two parts:


PART 1 - 206
Selected Hymns arranged in a convenient order.
Entrance to Recessional hymns for Holy Mass
with different sets for Eucharistic hymns.
General Hymns of themes like Vocation, Thanks
Giving and Adoration.
Hymns for different liturgical seasons from
Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter and Pentecost.
Hymns to the Sacred Heart, Hymns of Our Lady,
St. Joseph and the Salesians Saints.
Few newer hymns such as Taize chants that are
good for young people.


PART 2 - Prayers orderly arranged


From Angelus, Morning Prayer, Meditation to
Night Prayer.
Common community and personal prayers such
as Adoration, Litanies, Christmas Novena other
Novenas and the Stations of the Cross.
Some important prayers such the Mysteries of
the Holy Rosary and the Chaplet of the Divine
Mercy.
The new order of the Holy Mass and the two
commonly used Eucharistic prayers.


16 Salesian NewslinkZMB 17Salesian NewslinkZMB


(ZMB Newslink 27/12/12) Fr. Julian Fox, from
the department of Social Communication in
Rome has led a seminar on Communication and
Media for the young Salesians of the Formation
Community of St. John Bosco in Moshi
(Tanzania). The seminar began by discussing and
discerning the use of the Media and Social
Communication in the Digital Continent. All
community members where strongly encouraged
to put forward their views, trying to answer to
some of the very pressing questions of this area
such as: what is the help Media provides in this
particular stage of formation? Is Media helpful
for purposes of evangelisation? What the role of
Media in the personal formation and how does
one make the best of Media in our time?
Fr. Fox emphasised the need for every Salesian to
be present in the so-called 'Digital Continent'
where numbers reach more than a billion, of
which majority are youngsters. He challenged the
community asking them, 'how can we evangelise
them?' At the same time, the facilitator reminded
all of the need to be prudent in using the means of
social communication, in line with the directives
of the Church and Congregation.


This year the Salesian community of Moshi,
comprising of the Salesians of Don Bosco, the
Salesian Cooperators, Salesian past pupils and the
students of the Salesian school came together tot
cerebrate the feast of our father St. Don Bosco. The
celebration began in the morning at about 7:00 hours
with Morning prayers then the whole community
went for the photo session. At around 9:00 hours the
community went for Mass that was celebrated by the
Episcopal vicar for the religious Rv. Fr Munishi
Mathei. After mass the community had a time for
entertainment.
In the evening during night prayers, the Lord blessed
the Salesian Family with two new cooperators: mama
Foster and mama Pertrude who made their promises.
On this same day the community also celebrated the
rector's 20 of religious life.


Solemnity of St. John Bosco


Seminar on Communications and Media


Moshi UPDATE


1. Chingola and Kazembe communities are the oldest
existing community with each having 30 years of
existence this year
2. Lusaka archdiocese and Mansa diocese has the
highest number of communities each having three
canonical erected communities respectively
3. Fr. Zygmunt Labun died on the same day the relics
of Don Bosco landed in ZMB Vice-Province at Harare
international airport, 16/07/2012.
4. That Br. Clement Mutamba died on the same day his
young sister made her first religious vows on the eve of
the feast of the Immaculate Conception, 7/12/2012.
5. Chingola has recorded the highest number of
confreres in perpetual profession leaving the
congregation, ZMB province and religious life at
large.
6. Communities in the north of Zambia – Mansa,
Kazembe and Lufubu has recorded the highest number
of confreres in initial formation leaving the
congregation (not counting the formation
communities)
7. The past ten years, ZMB has never opened a new
community and the last community opened was
Hwange, Zimbabwe in 2003, while the last community
closed was Shambyu, Namibia.
8. Fr. Zamberlan Bruno is the eldest in terms of
religious profession in ZMB and this year is
celebrating his 53 years since he made his first
profession and Fr. Andrew Zdzieborski who is second
after him is celebration his golden jubilee.
9. What has strengthen our Pre-novitiate Formation in
our province is the idea of changing the Pre-novice
masters, the past five/six years we had the following
Six masters :, Fr, Bosco Mulenga, Fr. Rychcik
Christopher, Fr. Zamberlan Bruno, Fr.Chester
Lenczuk, Dn. Mbandama Michael, , Slawomir
Bartodziej and back to Fr. Bosco Mulenga
10. Statistically, Namibia is still the lowest on vocation
promotion, presently we have only one Salesians in
initial formation out of two who have joined us since
our presence in that country.
11. Namibia is the only country in ZMB which has no
canonically erected community. The existing
community is under the canonicity of Chawama
community.


Young confreres from ZMB,
students at Don Bosco Moshi-


Philosophy Centre
share some of their experiences


PUBLICATIONS


Br. Walter Thyrniang showing his recent work:
“Sing and Pray”, a hymnal and prayer book. A
compilation of hymns and prayers for the liturgy
and Salesian celebrations.


Did
you
know
that?


By Dn. Jerome Bwalya SDB




SING AND PRAY


Sing and Pray is a comprehensive Hymn and
Prayer book compiled specifically for Salesian
Communities and Salesian Family. The book is
designed to be used in religious communities
and for liturgical celebrations with young
people. It has two parts:


PART 1 - 206
Selected Hymns arranged in a convenient order.
Entrance to Recessional hymns for Holy Mass
with different sets for Eucharistic hymns.
General Hymns of themes like Vocation, Thanks
Giving and Adoration.
Hymns for different liturgical seasons from
Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter and Pentecost.
Hymns to the Sacred Heart, Hymns of Our Lady,
St. Joseph and the Salesians Saints.
Few newer hymns such as Taize chants that are
good for young people.


PART 2 - Prayers orderly arranged


From Angelus, Morning Prayer, Meditation to
Night Prayer.
Common community and personal prayers such
as Adoration, Litanies, Christmas Novena other
Novenas and the Stations of the Cross.
Some important prayers such the Mysteries of
the Holy Rosary and the Chaplet of the Divine
Mercy.
The new order of the Holy Mass and the two
commonly used Eucharistic prayers.


16 Salesian NewslinkZMB 17Salesian NewslinkZMB


(ZMB Newslink 27/12/12) Fr. Julian Fox, from
the department of Social Communication in
Rome has led a seminar on Communication and
Media for the young Salesians of the Formation
Community of St. John Bosco in Moshi
(Tanzania). The seminar began by discussing and
discerning the use of the Media and Social
Communication in the Digital Continent. All
community members where strongly encouraged
to put forward their views, trying to answer to
some of the very pressing questions of this area
such as: what is the help Media provides in this
particular stage of formation? Is Media helpful
for purposes of evangelisation? What the role of
Media in the personal formation and how does
one make the best of Media in our time?
Fr. Fox emphasised the need for every Salesian to
be present in the so-called 'Digital Continent'
where numbers reach more than a billion, of
which majority are youngsters. He challenged the
community asking them, 'how can we evangelise
them?' At the same time, the facilitator reminded
all of the need to be prudent in using the means of
social communication, in line with the directives
of the Church and Congregation.


This year the Salesian community of Moshi,
comprising of the Salesians of Don Bosco, the
Salesian Cooperators, Salesian past pupils and the
students of the Salesian school came together tot
cerebrate the feast of our father St. Don Bosco. The
celebration began in the morning at about 7:00 hours
with Morning prayers then the whole community
went for the photo session. At around 9:00 hours the
community went for Mass that was celebrated by the
Episcopal vicar for the religious Rv. Fr Munishi
Mathei. After mass the community had a time for
entertainment.
In the evening during night prayers, the Lord blessed
the Salesian Family with two new cooperators: mama
Foster and mama Pertrude who made their promises.
On this same day the community also celebrated the
rector's 20 of religious life.


Solemnity of St. John Bosco


Seminar on Communications and Media


Moshi UPDATE


1. Chingola and Kazembe communities are the oldest
existing community with each having 30 years of
existence this year
2. Lusaka archdiocese and Mansa diocese has the
highest number of communities each having three
canonical erected communities respectively
3. Fr. Zygmunt Labun died on the same day the relics
of Don Bosco landed in ZMB Vice-Province at Harare
international airport, 16/07/2012.
4. That Br. Clement Mutamba died on the same day his
young sister made her first religious vows on the eve of
the feast of the Immaculate Conception, 7/12/2012.
5. Chingola has recorded the highest number of
confreres in perpetual profession leaving the
congregation, ZMB province and religious life at
large.
6. Communities in the north of Zambia – Mansa,
Kazembe and Lufubu has recorded the highest number
of confreres in initial formation leaving the
congregation (not counting the formation
communities)
7. The past ten years, ZMB has never opened a new
community and the last community opened was
Hwange, Zimbabwe in 2003, while the last community
closed was Shambyu, Namibia.
8. Fr. Zamberlan Bruno is the eldest in terms of
religious profession in ZMB and this year is
celebrating his 53 years since he made his first
profession and Fr. Andrew Zdzieborski who is second
after him is celebration his golden jubilee.
9. What has strengthen our Pre-novitiate Formation in
our province is the idea of changing the Pre-novice
masters, the past five/six years we had the following
Six masters :, Fr, Bosco Mulenga, Fr. Rychcik
Christopher, Fr. Zamberlan Bruno, Fr.Chester
Lenczuk, Dn. Mbandama Michael, , Slawomir
Bartodziej and back to Fr. Bosco Mulenga
10. Statistically, Namibia is still the lowest on vocation
promotion, presently we have only one Salesians in
initial formation out of two who have joined us since
our presence in that country.
11. Namibia is the only country in ZMB which has no
canonically erected community. The existing
community is under the canonicity of Chawama
community.


Young confreres from ZMB,
students at Don Bosco Moshi-


Philosophy Centre
share some of their experiences


PUBLICATIONS


Br. Walter Thyrniang showing his recent work:
“Sing and Pray”, a hymnal and prayer book. A
compilation of hymns and prayers for the liturgy
and Salesian celebrations.


Did
you
know
that?


By Dn. Jerome Bwalya SDB




18 Salesian NewslinkZMB 19Salesian NewslinkZMB


Obituary Letter


Clement
MUTAMBA


harles Mutamba, the brother of Clement was at his bedside on
the night when Clement passed away, he told me his brother
did not struggle nor made any indication that it was the last
moment he just said; "now I want to rest" he laid back and
breathed his last in serenity. That's was how he died.


I first met Br. Clement in 2008 when he came for the holidays-community-
experience to Lilongwe. The little I remembered about him was the time we
played football with the boys and the quality time we had at the community.
The following year he was back in Lilongwe to begin his Practical Training
- we had more time and had a lot of fun. He was always a respectful and
joyful community member, a good companion and fun loving friend. The
last activity together in Lilongwe was again to play a social football game
with the staff members of the Technical Institute and he complained about
his aching right knee. After one year in Lilongwe he went to join the
Salesian community in Harare for his second year of practical training.
When the throbbing knee was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, we were
together for some time at the provincial house. We chatted a lot and often
time he shared his anxiety about his problem. Once when he collapsed in
the chapel during Mass it was clear that the situation was serious. It was a
dilemma for him to come to terms and accept that he will have to lose his
leg. This reality pained him since he would have to give up playing football
and of course the uncertainty of life without a limb.
Bro. Clement was born on 19th October 1985 the 6th Child of Mr. Peter
Mutamba and Mrs. Theresa Mutamba from Luwingu District. As a boy he
went to Lwena Basic School and completed his secondary education in
Lubushi Minor Seminary.


He joined the Salesians of Don Bosco in 2003 feelings of people around him.”
and did his first experience of formation in Don
Bosco Chingola. After Pre-novitiate he went for The last years he has been a regular contributor to
his Novitiate to South Africa and returned to the ZMB Newslink Magazine with various
make his First Profession at St. Mathias articles and he would read and critically
Mulumba, Bauleni on 6th August 2006. Bro. comment on most of the writings of other in the
Clement proceeded for his Philosophical studies Salesian provincial newsletter. We will miss his
to Moshi, Tanzania and completed his degree in contribution.
Philosophy and Education in 2008. From 2008 to The Salesians of Don Bosco, Province of
2009 he worked in the School and Don Bosco Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Namibia morn
Youth Centre in Lilongwe. In 2009 he was the lost of this dynamic young Salesian. He is the
transferred to the Salesian Community and first Zambian Salesian from this province to
Parish in Harare. enter the Salesian garden in paradise. He will be
While in Harare, he developed trouble on his remembered and missed by all the Salesians, the
right leg which he initially thought was an injury young people who knew him personally, his
from playing football. His right knee was Mother, brothers, Sisters, relatives and friends.
diagnosed with cancer and after extensive
examination and treatment in Lusaka and South For those us who could take part in his memorial
Africa; he had to have his right leg amputated in mass, vigil, funeral mass and the final journey to
September 2011. Bro. Clement was recovering the cemetery; we befittingly accompanied the
well but again it was diagnosed that the cancer remains of this young Salesian and prayed for his
had spread to other parts of his body. eternal rest. It was all very solemnly arranged


and well organised. His mother and his brothers Since he left Harare he stayed at the Provincial
and sisters told me they were consoled with the House going for regular check-ups and medical
way their dear one was accorded the final rites. examination then finally the surgery on his leg.
Priests, religious and faithful paid their respect His health improved rapidly so he moved to the
and said good bye to him respectfully. It was an Salesian Community in Bauleni but he had to
honour to a life well lived, a journey that had undergo regular treatment (chemotherapy). On
come to an end. In his pain and suffering Clement 20th November due to his deteriorating
finally seem to say silently; " I have run the race... condition, he was admitted at the University
I fought the good fight... what is left for me is the Teaching Hospital in Lusaka where he passed
crown...."away peacefully on 7th December 2012 at 22.33
"Gone to soon" wrote a facebook friend, another p.m.
one; "this is hard to understand... Why?" Yes! it Bro. Clement was a very lively and active
looks like he has left us too soon, this young man Salesian, multi-talented and loved by his
of just 30 years of age. The preacher at his companions and young people. He possessed
Requiem Mass explained that "human beings good leadership quality and was very pleasant to
don't die of sickness, we die because our time has everyone. As a student in Moshi he was the
come" and it is God who determines the time. We president of the students grouping. He was a deep
have to accept that Cement's time had come... thinker with a warm and accommodating heart
ours will come too sooner or later.always ready to listen and had a silent prayerful


personality. One of his classmates wrote;
Till then, I cherish the memory of Br. Clement!“Clement was a person who did not wish to


offend anyone, he was sensitive to the emotional


Until we meet again


CBr Walter Thyrniang SDB


Obituary Letter


Clement Mutamba during
the General Assembly in 2008




18 Salesian NewslinkZMB 19Salesian NewslinkZMB


Obituary Letter


Clement
MUTAMBA


harles Mutamba, the brother of Clement was at his bedside on
the night when Clement passed away, he told me his brother
did not struggle nor made any indication that it was the last
moment he just said; "now I want to rest" he laid back and
breathed his last in serenity. That's was how he died.


I first met Br. Clement in 2008 when he came for the holidays-community-
experience to Lilongwe. The little I remembered about him was the time we
played football with the boys and the quality time we had at the community.
The following year he was back in Lilongwe to begin his Practical Training
- we had more time and had a lot of fun. He was always a respectful and
joyful community member, a good companion and fun loving friend. The
last activity together in Lilongwe was again to play a social football game
with the staff members of the Technical Institute and he complained about
his aching right knee. After one year in Lilongwe he went to join the
Salesian community in Harare for his second year of practical training.
When the throbbing knee was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, we were
together for some time at the provincial house. We chatted a lot and often
time he shared his anxiety about his problem. Once when he collapsed in
the chapel during Mass it was clear that the situation was serious. It was a
dilemma for him to come to terms and accept that he will have to lose his
leg. This reality pained him since he would have to give up playing football
and of course the uncertainty of life without a limb.
Bro. Clement was born on 19th October 1985 the 6th Child of Mr. Peter
Mutamba and Mrs. Theresa Mutamba from Luwingu District. As a boy he
went to Lwena Basic School and completed his secondary education in
Lubushi Minor Seminary.


He joined the Salesians of Don Bosco in 2003 feelings of people around him.”
and did his first experience of formation in Don
Bosco Chingola. After Pre-novitiate he went for The last years he has been a regular contributor to
his Novitiate to South Africa and returned to the ZMB Newslink Magazine with various
make his First Profession at St. Mathias articles and he would read and critically
Mulumba, Bauleni on 6th August 2006. Bro. comment on most of the writings of other in the
Clement proceeded for his Philosophical studies Salesian provincial newsletter. We will miss his
to Moshi, Tanzania and completed his degree in contribution.
Philosophy and Education in 2008. From 2008 to The Salesians of Don Bosco, Province of
2009 he worked in the School and Don Bosco Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Namibia morn
Youth Centre in Lilongwe. In 2009 he was the lost of this dynamic young Salesian. He is the
transferred to the Salesian Community and first Zambian Salesian from this province to
Parish in Harare. enter the Salesian garden in paradise. He will be
While in Harare, he developed trouble on his remembered and missed by all the Salesians, the
right leg which he initially thought was an injury young people who knew him personally, his
from playing football. His right knee was Mother, brothers, Sisters, relatives and friends.
diagnosed with cancer and after extensive
examination and treatment in Lusaka and South For those us who could take part in his memorial
Africa; he had to have his right leg amputated in mass, vigil, funeral mass and the final journey to
September 2011. Bro. Clement was recovering the cemetery; we befittingly accompanied the
well but again it was diagnosed that the cancer remains of this young Salesian and prayed for his
had spread to other parts of his body. eternal rest. It was all very solemnly arranged


and well organised. His mother and his brothers Since he left Harare he stayed at the Provincial
and sisters told me they were consoled with the House going for regular check-ups and medical
way their dear one was accorded the final rites. examination then finally the surgery on his leg.
Priests, religious and faithful paid their respect His health improved rapidly so he moved to the
and said good bye to him respectfully. It was an Salesian Community in Bauleni but he had to
honour to a life well lived, a journey that had undergo regular treatment (chemotherapy). On
come to an end. In his pain and suffering Clement 20th November due to his deteriorating
finally seem to say silently; " I have run the race... condition, he was admitted at the University
I fought the good fight... what is left for me is the Teaching Hospital in Lusaka where he passed
crown...."away peacefully on 7th December 2012 at 22.33
"Gone to soon" wrote a facebook friend, another p.m.
one; "this is hard to understand... Why?" Yes! it Bro. Clement was a very lively and active
looks like he has left us too soon, this young man Salesian, multi-talented and loved by his
of just 30 years of age. The preacher at his companions and young people. He possessed
Requiem Mass explained that "human beings good leadership quality and was very pleasant to
don't die of sickness, we die because our time has everyone. As a student in Moshi he was the
come" and it is God who determines the time. We president of the students grouping. He was a deep
have to accept that Cement's time had come... thinker with a warm and accommodating heart
ours will come too sooner or later.always ready to listen and had a silent prayerful


personality. One of his classmates wrote;
Till then, I cherish the memory of Br. Clement!“Clement was a person who did not wish to


offend anyone, he was sensitive to the emotional


Until we meet again


CBr Walter Thyrniang SDB


Obituary Letter


Clement Mutamba during
the General Assembly in 2008




20 Salesian NewslinkZMB


Tsabango Area 23 - Lilongwe (Malawi) 01/02/2013.- Students, Salesian
Community, Stuff and Friends of Don Bosco Technical Institute as well as
people from St. John Bosco Parish came together to celebrate the Solemnity of
St. John Bosco. The date was moved from 31 January to February 1, 2013.
The day began with the Eucharistic celebration, presided over by the guest of
honour Fr. Antonio Javier Barrientos who is the youth delegate and the
provincial secretary, concelebrating were the Principal of the Institute, Fr.
Michael Mbandama and the parish priest of St. John Bosco Parish, Fr. Patrick
Makina. After the holy Eucharist we had Don Bosco quiz in which the student
showed their knowledge of Don Bosco and the Salesian congregation. A student
from Accounting got the first position, followed by the Auto mechanics students


and the third position went to Information and Technology. Thanks to the quiz
master, Mr. Precious Chilupysa and his team for the good organization of the
quiz. Immediately after the quiz we had students' activities. It was wonderful to
see students showing their different talents through the different activities they
performed, each from their respective sections. The winner of the students'
activities was Fashion Art and Beauty section that performed a wonderful play.
This was followed by lunch which the school offered to all students and those
invited guests.


The feast of Don Bosco 2013 included not only the indoor activities but also the
outdoor games which were played in the afternoon. On this day we had the finals
for the Don Bosco Cup that was sponsored by the past pupils. A big word of
'thanks' to the former students of Don Bosco Technical Institute – Lilongwe for
the contributions they made over this feast and more particularly in the
tournament we had.


celebrations at don bosco technical institute


Michael Rua Group which
comprised of Accounting and
Brick-laying sections took the first
position in football, Mazzarello
which consisted of Information
Technology and Carpentry section
took number one in volleyball, and
Laura Vicuña composed of
Electrical and Hotel won the first
position in netball. Chief official
Mr. Masala and his team organised
the whole tournament, a word of
thanks to them, too.


The feast of Don Bosco ended with
the prize giving around 16:45 hours
with the presence of the principal of
the Technical Institute, Fr. Michael
Mbandama sdb, the vice principal,
the representatives of the past pupils
and Mister and Miss Don Bosco.


Morning Assembly


Football Tournament Volleyball Tournament


Arrival at Don Bosco TI


Carpentry Department


Official Website | www.dbc-malawi.org




20 Salesian NewslinkZMB


Tsabango Area 23 - Lilongwe (Malawi) 01/02/2013.- Students, Salesian
Community, Stuff and Friends of Don Bosco Technical Institute as well as
people from St. John Bosco Parish came together to celebrate the Solemnity of
St. John Bosco. The date was moved from 31 January to February 1, 2013.
The day began with the Eucharistic celebration, presided over by the guest of
honour Fr. Antonio Javier Barrientos who is the youth delegate and the
provincial secretary, concelebrating were the Principal of the Institute, Fr.
Michael Mbandama and the parish priest of St. John Bosco Parish, Fr. Patrick
Makina. After the holy Eucharist we had Don Bosco quiz in which the student
showed their knowledge of Don Bosco and the Salesian congregation. A student
from Accounting got the first position, followed by the Auto mechanics students


and the third position went to Information and Technology. Thanks to the quiz
master, Mr. Precious Chilupysa and his team for the good organization of the
quiz. Immediately after the quiz we had students' activities. It was wonderful to
see students showing their different talents through the different activities they
performed, each from their respective sections. The winner of the students'
activities was Fashion Art and Beauty section that performed a wonderful play.
This was followed by lunch which the school offered to all students and those
invited guests.


The feast of Don Bosco 2013 included not only the indoor activities but also the
outdoor games which were played in the afternoon. On this day we had the finals
for the Don Bosco Cup that was sponsored by the past pupils. A big word of
'thanks' to the former students of Don Bosco Technical Institute – Lilongwe for
the contributions they made over this feast and more particularly in the
tournament we had.


celebrations at don bosco technical institute


Michael Rua Group which
comprised of Accounting and
Brick-laying sections took the first
position in football, Mazzarello
which consisted of Information
Technology and Carpentry section
took number one in volleyball, and
Laura Vicuña composed of
Electrical and Hotel won the first
position in netball. Chief official
Mr. Masala and his team organised
the whole tournament, a word of
thanks to them, too.


The feast of Don Bosco ended with
the prize giving around 16:45 hours
with the presence of the principal of
the Technical Institute, Fr. Michael
Mbandama sdb, the vice principal,
the representatives of the past pupils
and Mister and Miss Don Bosco.


Morning Assembly


Football Tournament Volleyball Tournament


Arrival at Don Bosco TI


Carpentry Department


Official Website | www.dbc-malawi.org




J


Salesian NewslinkZMB 2322 Salesian NewslinkZMB


Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger,


with thanks for your dedication and
service to the Church...


Pope Benedict XVI


oseph Ratzinger was born on April 16, 1927,
in Marktl am Inn, Bavaria, Germany, the
youngest of three children. He entered
preparatory seminary in 1939. In 1943, he
and fellow seminarians were recruited into


the anti-aircraft corps. In 1945 Ratzinger returned to the
seminary at the University of Munich in and was ordained
a priest in 1951. Two years later, he earned his doctorate
at the University of Munich. He earned his teaching
licentiate in 1957 and became a professor of Freising
College in 1958, teaching dogma and fundamental
theology.
Ratzinger became a professor at the University of Bonn in
1959. Later, he moved to the University of Muenster
(1963-1966) and took a chair in dogmatic theology at the
University of Tübingen.
At the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), Ratzinger
served as chief theological expert to Cardinal Joseph
Frings of Cologne, Germany. He was viewed as a reformer
during this time.


In 1972, Ratzinger helped found the theological journal
Communio, which became one of the most important
journals of Catholic thought. In March 1977, he was
named archbishop of Munich and Freising and, three
months later, was named a Cardinal by Pope Paul VI.


In 1981, Pope John Paul II nominated Ratzinger prefect of
the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Cardinal
Ratzinger defended and reaffirmed Catholic doctrine,
emphasising the strong Catholic stand on topics such as
birth control, homosexuality and inter-religious dialogue.
Cardinal Ratzinger was elected Pope on April 19, 2005,
after the death of John Paul II.


In February 2013, at age 85, Pope Benedict XVI
announced that he would be resigning on February 28,
2013—becoming the first pope in centuries to step down
from his post.


In a statement, the pope explained, "I have come to the
certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are
no longer suited to an adequate exercise… In today's
world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by
questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to
govern the bark of St. Peter and proclaim the gospel, both
strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which
in the last few months has deteriorated in me to the extent
that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately
fulfill the mini try entrusted to me ... For this reason, and
well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom,
I declare that I renounce the ministry of bishop of Rome,
successor of St. Peter."




J


Salesian NewslinkZMB 2322 Salesian NewslinkZMB


Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger,


with thanks for your dedication and
service to the Church...


Pope Benedict XVI


oseph Ratzinger was born on April 16, 1927,
in Marktl am Inn, Bavaria, Germany, the
youngest of three children. He entered
preparatory seminary in 1939. In 1943, he
and fellow seminarians were recruited into


the anti-aircraft corps. In 1945 Ratzinger returned to the
seminary at the University of Munich in and was ordained
a priest in 1951. Two years later, he earned his doctorate
at the University of Munich. He earned his teaching
licentiate in 1957 and became a professor of Freising
College in 1958, teaching dogma and fundamental
theology.
Ratzinger became a professor at the University of Bonn in
1959. Later, he moved to the University of Muenster
(1963-1966) and took a chair in dogmatic theology at the
University of Tübingen.
At the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), Ratzinger
served as chief theological expert to Cardinal Joseph
Frings of Cologne, Germany. He was viewed as a reformer
during this time.


In 1972, Ratzinger helped found the theological journal
Communio, which became one of the most important
journals of Catholic thought. In March 1977, he was
named archbishop of Munich and Freising and, three
months later, was named a Cardinal by Pope Paul VI.


In 1981, Pope John Paul II nominated Ratzinger prefect of
the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Cardinal
Ratzinger defended and reaffirmed Catholic doctrine,
emphasising the strong Catholic stand on topics such as
birth control, homosexuality and inter-religious dialogue.
Cardinal Ratzinger was elected Pope on April 19, 2005,
after the death of John Paul II.


In February 2013, at age 85, Pope Benedict XVI
announced that he would be resigning on February 28,
2013—becoming the first pope in centuries to step down
from his post.


In a statement, the pope explained, "I have come to the
certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are
no longer suited to an adequate exercise… In today's
world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by
questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to
govern the bark of St. Peter and proclaim the gospel, both
strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which
in the last few months has deteriorated in me to the extent
that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately
fulfill the mini try entrusted to me ... For this reason, and
well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom,
I declare that I renounce the ministry of bishop of Rome,
successor of St. Peter."




ROADMAP
zmbsocialc@salesianszmb.org


2 3


4 5 6


7 8 9


10 11 12


1


13 ZMB PHOTO - Issue No 24
1-3. Chingola (ZAMBIA): Fr. George Chalissery 8. Rundu (NAMIBIA): Young people from Don


and his council visiting the Technical School Bosco youth centre after taking part in the
and the Pre-novitiate. youth seminar for the Year of Faith organised


4. Kabwe (ZAMBIA): Fr. George and the council by Dn. Jerome Bwalya and a group of
inspecting the progress in the construction Catholic Students from Rundu District.
works at St. Mary’s parish. 9. Lusaka - Bauleni (ZAMBIA): Candidate


5. Moshi (TANZANIA): Fr. Bruno together with Boniface Mbowo entertaining a group of kids
Br. Leotika Kaluba, Cl. Faith Musabila and who regularly frequent St. Matthias Mulumba
Cl. Moses Chilambe on the celebrations of the Parish.
Community Day. 10. Luska (ZAMBIA): Late Clement Mutambia


6. Jerusalem (ISRAEL): Cl. George Phiri posing during the last moments of his illness.
in front to the Basilica of Gallicantu; the spot 11-12. Lusaka (ZAMBIA): Photos of the funeral
where Peter denied Jesus three times. mass and burial of late Clement Mutamba


7. Nkhotakoat (MALAWI): Catechists of St. sdb. The funeral mass was presided by Bishop
Paul’s Parish during the Sunday school Clement Mulenga, sdb.
lessons after mass. All in preparation for 13.Lusaka (ZAMBIA): Clement Mutamba, sdb as
reception of the sacraments. we remember him. (Newslink Team).