Year 5 | Issue No. 18 Mar - Apr - May 2011
The Lord is RISEN!
ZAMBIA - ZIMBABWE - MALAWI - NAMIBIA
ALLELUIA
Provincial Events:
PDO Get’s started
Rectors’ Meeting
Communication:
Social Networks
Editorial 3
Words of the Provincial 4
Church today: Suffering and joy of Easter 5
Don Bosco’s devotion to Mary 6
Salesians Kabwe 7
News from Chingola 8
Malawi on the Focus 9
News from Moshi: Curatorium 11
Salesian Novitiate Makeni 12
Thinking Point 13
Mission Ad Gentes 14
Mission Animation: Cagliero 11 15
Social Networks: Salesians and Facebook 17
Planning and Development Office 19
Rector’s Meeting 2011 19
ZMB Photo 20
“Come and see
what the Lord has done”!
Director: Fr. George Chalissery
Editor: Fr. Javier Barrientos
Redaction Board: Fr. Dennis Higgins
Fr. Javier Barrientos
Graphic Design: Fr. Javier Barrientos
Photos: Fr. Leszek Aksamit, Br. Walter Thyrniang
Fr. Javier Barrientos,
E-mail: zmbsocialc@zmb.co.zm
Website: www.salesianszmb.org
Moshi Brothers
Salesian Newslink
ZMB Quarterly publication
Year 5/Nº18 Mar - Apr - May 2011
2 Salesian NewslinkZMB
3Salesian NewslinkZMB
Fr. Javier Antonio
Barrientos sdb
zmbsocialc@zmb.co.zm
Wandering
unknown paths
t is quite a lovely scene to visit parks on a Sunday by, right now the Vice-Province is once again
afternoon when people sit on its benches to beginning to make those first steps slowly and Iadmire the beauty of nature, birds that come gradually, trusting the hands which were provided
searching for scraps of bread people might have left to help us walk. It all feels as if it is a new experience
behind, etc; but what is most comforting is to see a altogether, but we still have to trust and walk the
child walking secure holding their parents hands. unknown paths. Like the disciples of Jesus, there is a
The ground might not be leveled, it might even be long way to go. Jesus' resurrection did not mean for
slippery but that child, although unknowingly, walks the disciples to have reached the end of the journey,
secure thanks to those two hands that keep him but it was like a new beginning. All the lessons Jesus
steady. This is an ideal situation, we all long for that gave them were now changed into tools to help
but real life shows us that it is not always like that. them walk and make of the Jesus' discipleship a
reality that would transform the world. Therefore,
Very often young people come to us seeking although faced up with many challenges, the
security and peace, and it is our duty to be of help to disciples knew that they were to wander unknown
them, like parents do until children can walk by paths, and thus transform the world; they were
themselves; that was Christ's mission when he afraid but Jesus' promise of his Spirit comforted
came to our world. He came to help us walk; he them and made them strong, it did not do away
came to help us to rise when we fall down and to with fear but helped them to overcome its
walk confident amidst difficulties and challenges. overwhelming effect.
As the years go by, and when strength begins to fail
us, we know that slowly we need some helping Like the disciples, who found the reason of living
hands, to walk secure and confident that we will not and proclaiming the Gospel in Christ's resurrection
stumble and fall. Institutions face up the same from the death, we are all invited to walk and to
challenge, and I would say it is part of our human help young people walk with confidence because
experience. despite the challenges of life, we are not walking
the unknown paths of life alone, but we have always
ZMB Vice-Province is now living a new stage in its the Risen Lord with us and the promise of his Holy
development; although almost 30 years have gone Spirit.
E
d
it
o
r
ia
l
4 Salesian NewslinkZMB
Words of the Provincial
he season of Easter reminds us of hope – youngsters that whatever their past has been,
that things can be better in apparent their lives need not be determined by their past,
hopeless situations. The disciples of they can all start anew and change for the better. T
Emmaus poured out their hopeless They do not need to go back to the death-dealing
situation – their hopes placed on Jesus the habits of evil. They can rise from these graves
Messiah – their hopelessness, now that he was with the power of the Risen Christ.
crucified and killed. There is nothing more to
do… nothing more to place their hopes again. So even if we find ourselves in graves due to
Even though, that same morning when the some evil or other, we still can come out from
women announced to them that they had seen them by the power of the Risen Jesus. Even if we
a vision of angels declaring 'He was alive' and find our youngsters devoid of all hope in their
even some of the apostles had gone to the tomb lives, we can buoy them up with new hopes that
and found it empty, they could not hope that they can, with the power of the Risen Jesus, the
Jesus defied death and had come back to life. ability to come out from their little graves.
There has never been any such case in history. It
could never occur. So why to place their hopes on I wish you all the peace and joy of the Risen
unrealistic claims? Jesus. May your lives be ever spurred on by the
hope that as each day passes things can be
Easter proclaims that even if one is in the grave, - better: Alleluia!
as good as dead – there is possibility to come out
from such a life-less situation. This is message of
hope for us and for the youngsters. Even if we Fr George Chalissery SDB
have been buried in little graves because of one
bad habit or another, that we find impossible to
rise again, we still can come out from the grave to
a new life. We also can give hope to the
Even if one is in the grave
there is a possibility to come out
of that life-less situation...
He is alive
The reason of our hope
Fr. George Chalissery sdb
Salesian NewslinkZMB
Church Today
5
VATICAN CITY, APRIL 24, 2010 (Zenit.org).- In his and a "path of reconciliation and pardon, in order to heal the
Easter message, Benedict XVI contrasted the joy of the deep wounds caused by the recent violence."
Resurrection with the sufferings and "painful situations" "In the countries of northern Africa and the Middle East,"
that continue to afflict mankind, such as natural disasters, Benedict XVI added, "may all citizens, especially young
poverty, illness and war. people, work to promote the common good and to build a
Before imparting his blessing "urbi et orbi" (to the city of society where poverty is defeated and every political choice
Rome and the world), the Pope noted that at Easter "the hosts is inspired by respect for the human person."
of angels, saints and blessed souls join with one voice in our The Pope also made a specific reference to Japan and other
exultant song. [...] But alas, it is not so on earth!" countries that have been "tested by natural disasters, which
"Here, in this world of ours," he said, "the Easter alleluia still have sown pain and anguish," expressing a desire that they
contrasts with the cries and laments that arise from so many "find consolation and hope."
painful situations: deprivation, hunger, disease, war, "May heaven and earth rejoice at the witness of those who
violence." suffer opposition and even persecution for their faith in
The Holy Father said that his message for Easter was Jesus Christ," the Pontiff added. "May the proclamation of
directed in particular to those "peoples and communities his victorious resurrection deepen their courage and trust."
who are undergoing a time of suffering," and he mentioned "The risen Christ is journeying ahead of us towards the new
in particular the Middle East, Northern Africa and Japan. heavens and the new earth, in which we shall all finally live
"May the splendor of Christ reach the peoples of the Middle as one family, as sons of the same Father," the Pontiff
East," he stated, "so that the light of peace and of human concluded. "He is with us until the end of time. Let us walk
dignity may overcome the darkness of division, hate and behind him, in this wounded world, singing Alleluia.
violence." “In our hearts there is joy and sorrow, on our faces there are
With regard to Libya, the Pontiff expressed a desire that smiles and tears. Such is our earthly reality. But Christ is
"diplomacy and dialogue take the place of arms and may risen, he is alive and he walks with us. For this reason we
those who suffer as a result of the conflict be given access to sing and we walk, faithfully carrying out our task in this
humanitarian aid." world with our gaze fixed on heaven."
And for the Ivory Coast, he urged "peaceful coexistence"
Human Suffering &
the Joy of EasterPope Benedict XVI
Source: http://www.zenit.org/article-32410?l=english
In our hearts there is joy and sorrow,
such is our earthly reality.
Yet Christ is risen, he is alive and he walks with us.
For this reason we sing and we walk,
faithfully carrying out our task in this world with our gaze fixed on heaven."
6 Salesian NewslinkZMB
Salesian Spirituality
Don Bosco’s devotion
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS
responded well to the needs of the young who were poor and in
danger. In the Memoirs of the Oratory he tells us that a
procession from the Oratory to the Church of Our Lady of
Consolation for a sung Mass at which the Oratory choir and
musicians would perform, became an annual event. In the
Biographical Memoirs we are told that at the death of Mamma
Margaret in 1856, Don Bosco prayed to Our Lady of
Consolation, Most compassionate Virgin, my sons and I are
without a mother! Please be our mother from now on.
In 1854 after the proclamation of the Dogma of the Immaculate
Conception, Don Bosco encouraged the devotion to Mary in an
unprecedented way, turning this article of faith into a
programme of devotion and spirituality. He made Mary
Immaculate a living presence among the boys of the oratory.
She seemed to be the ideal educator for youngsters who had to
overcome the difficulties inherent in their human and Christian
growth.
From the year 1848 onwards, due to the political unrest and the
direct liberal attacks on the Papal States, the Immaculate
Conception became a symbol among the conservative
Catholics, and gave that title its peculiar religious-political he year 1840 marked one of the fastest growth of the
slant, so the relentless progress of the revolution culminating city of Turin, it was the children of labourers and
in the takeover of the Papal States and the unification of Italy in migrants living in the slums of the northern districts T
who were most at risk and liable to be homeless, neglected, or
left to themselves. It is no coincidence that the first oratories
for poor and abandoned boys began in these northern districts,
the first in 1840 by Fr. John Cocchi, and by Don Bosco a few
years later.
When the Oratory of St Francis de Sales was established in
Valdocco in 1846, it was only a quarter of a mile away from a
thgun-powder factory and three warehouses. On 26 April 1852
there was a massive explosion, heard fifteen miles away. If the
flames had not been prevented from reaching the third
warehouse, which contained 800 barrels of powder, the
damage would have been even more extensive. 1861 saw the title of Help of Christians come into prominence,
The Oratory house, which was badly constructed, suffered a title that was even more politically charged in its original
serious damage; the deputies sent us an offering of 300 francs context.
to help repair it. Don Bosco's dream of the Two Columns in which the ship of
Don Bosco printed 5,000 copies of a picture card showing the Church is anchored, is not particularly original since their
figures from the Oratory in the foreground, the exploding main element can also be found in sermons, articles and
magazine in the background, and above the scene, protecting cartoons in Catholic publications of the time. However, Mary
her city and especially the Oratory, the figure of Our Lady of the Help of Christians was now about to act in defence of the
Consolation. The superscription reads In peril and danger, Church, perhaps this moved Don Bosco to build a monumental
turn to Mary, and the dedication beneath is from The sons of Church dedicated to Mary, Help of Christians in front of the
the Oratory of St Francis de Sales, to Our Lady of Oratory. One of the inscriptions for the interior of the church
Consolation: read: Pius VII instituted the feast of Mary, Help of Christians to
thWe, from the ignited gunpowder commemorate the 24 of May when with Mary's help he was
Through your mercy spared, released from prison at Savona.
At your feet, great Virgin, Seen in this context, the period of the building of the Church of
Give thanks bowed in veneration. Mary, Help of Christians, from the time work began in 1863 to
When Don Bosco had been taken seriously ill in 1846, it was at the dedication in 1868, represents a turning point in Don
the Church of Our Lady of Consolation, about six blocks away, Bosco's outlook, a maturing of his pastoral approach and a
that the Oratory boys kept vigil until his recovery. We know broadening of his vision from the original idea of a church for
that the first statue of Mary in the Pinardi chapel was of Our his house, his local area and his congregation, the idea of a
Lady of Consolation, the Madonna of the people of Turin. Don basilica, a place of pilgrimage, the home of a spiritual family.
Bosco cultivated devotion to Mary under this title, believing
that to feel themselves protected by a consoling Mother
Extracts from Starting Again from Don Bosco
by Fr. Ian Murdoch sdb
We address Mary as, Immaculate Virgin,
Help of Christians, foundress
and support of our Congregation
W
7Salesian NewslinkZMB
KABWESalesians
Naambe (Kabwe-Zambia)
15 April 2011
Fr. Zygmunt Labun with a group of 130
youngsters from Makululu during the
annual youth retreat held at St. John
the Evangelist mission centre (17 Km
from Kabwe).
Makululu (Kabwe-Zambia)
17 April 2011
Parishioners from St. John Bosco
mission centre during the performance
of the Passion of Jesus on Palm
Sunday.
Kasanda Area (Kabwe-Zambia)
17 April 2011
Fr. Andrew Reut leading the procession
of Palm Sunday, surrounded by
parishioners and some people from the
UCZ and the Anglican Church on the
traditional walk-together at the
beginning of Holy Week.
Kasanda Area (Kabwe-Zambia)
24 April
Parishioners from St. Mary’s Parish
during the celebration of Easter
Sunday. The ‘Buomba’ group
animated the liturgical celebration.
Kasanda Area (Kabwe-Zambia)
The Salesian Youth Centre of Kabwe,
where hundreds of young people
gather on daily basis to pray, learn and
have recreational activities, as it stands
today.
e carry out our mission
mainly in such works
and activities that make
possible the human
and christian education
of the young,
such as oratories
and youth centres,
schools and
technical institutes,
boarding establishments
and houses
for young people
in difficulties.
In parishes and
mission residences
we contribute
to the spreading
of the Gospel and
to the advancement
of the people.
We collaborate
in the pastoral programme
of the particular Church
out of the riches of
our specific vocation
Const. 42.
Pastoral Work
8 Salesian NewslinkZMB
Salesians
CHINGOLA
:: DON BOSCO AND THE YOUTH DAY :: marked my transition officially to adulthood and I wouldn't
imagine graduating to any other college”
Chingola (Zambia) 13/03/11. Chingola District Youth day Kasonde Kambikambi shares her take of the 17th graduation
celebration held on the 12th of march at Nchanga rugby held on the 4th of March at Don Bosco Technical College in
stadium was again lighted up by the participation of Don Chingola. The mother was at hand to complete this same joy
Bosco youths from its Youth centre. This time around Don of success. Kasonde completed a one year training for 2010 in
Bosco brass band and the majorettes led hundreds of youths International Computer Driving License (ICDL).
in the matching to the stadium. Karate club like many other
years did not want to be left out as they put up a thrilling
showcase of skills. :: FAREWELL TO VOLUNTEER JACOB WCZELIK::
We can only thank the Chingola District national events
organising committee through the office of district Chingola (Zambia) 19/03/11. Jacob Wczelik a Polish
commissioner Mr. Maliti for acknowledging and extending volunteer who has been here at Don Bosco Chingola for
the invitation to Don Bosco Youth Centre. Its our pride as Don about 18 months leaves for his home country. Jacob as he
Bosco in our small way to contribute to the success of this leaves for Poland we cannot afford not to recall his various
event and many more to come; indeed we are happy to be duties at this centre but most specifically his close
part of this success story. To our youths its Viva Don Bosco. collaboration with the principal of the technical school Fr.
'Dialogue and understanding key to building unity' was the Mariusz. Indeed most of his duties in this vein were
message for the youth day celebrations. Of course with the administrative in nature in the school; Production Unity
national elections looming this year the message was among others.
appropriate for the youths of Zambia and Chingola in We can only thank him for his commitment in contributing to
particular to uphold the peace and harmony that is typical of the growth of the Salesian mission here in Chingola. We wish
Zambia. However, recent developments in the political him and his family well as they reunite after his long absence.
arena leaves little room for much optimism where we have May God richly bless him in his new endeavours.
seen growing cadre extremism; and the consequent running Jacob’s constant wish was for the continued support to the
battles between political opponents during by elections. Just volunteers coming after him both local and international. He
how appropriate was this theme since youths are often paid acknowledged that sometimes it may be a challenging for a
to do this 'dirty mission' as Zambia's prophet Maiko Zulu put volunteer from a lay background to easily fit into the daily
it in his album Justice for higher. and regular rhythm of the religious community. In the similar
vein the community may not as well be so much
accommodative to the volunteer; a thing which he said never
XVII GRADUATION CEREMONY experienced here at Chingola Don Bosco Youth Centre.
Chingola (Zambia) 15/03/11: “I will never forget my
graduation! It was successful and I was excited because it
Youth Ministry
By Cl. John Musonda sdb
9Salesian NewslinkZMB
rian Banda is busy in his office and said that he was students and out of this 180 are girls. With the aim of
also covering for his colleague (another past improving the quality of and access to vocational
student of Don Bosco, I forgot her name but education in Malawi, Don Bosco Youth Technical Institute B
remember her face) who is attending training for a new is in the process of constructing a Girls Hostel that will
information system. In the next computer room Elizabeth house 100 girls.”
Chatua is in the middle of something but quickly smiled The founding fathers deserve special admiration and all
and run to the counter exclaiming ' brother Water (that's those who made Don Bosco's dream a reality in Malawi I
how the Malawian say my name) how is Don Bosco?' say MAKOROKOTO.
“Joining Don Bosco Youth Technical Institute is one of the
tremendous decisions I have ever made as a being. Even The traditional trades like Carpentry and Brick Laying
though it was through ups and downs, determination running well, Auto-mechanics and Electrical Installation
made me stand film to fully fulfil my dreams in glamour are thriving. Recently Catering and Hotel Management
colours. Currently, I am working (with Eliza and another has been introduced, IT has been upgraded to CompTia
past student) for OIBM as an IT Support Engineer, and also N+ and Microsoft Certified Course while Tailoring is now
I own a fast-growing ICT-Business.” Wrote Brian on the Fashion, Art and Design with a decent beauty salon
C o l l e g e w e b p a g e ; converted from the old toilet building. While all the
courses have been modified to able students obtain
highest qualifications possible in a Technical college. It
There are hundreds, probably thousands of past students means students would graduate after passing (Internal
of Don Bosco Youth Technical Institute in the labour and External) Examinations; depending of their level and
market of Malawi. A few of them have taken themselves to progress they may stay at the College 6 months or 6 years.
South Africa and the United Kingdom. Where ever they are Looking at the policies and system in place Don Bosco
we hope they are happy and successful and the few I still Youth Technical Institute is here to stay. It is and will not
keep in touch or meet occasionally. stay alone. TEVETA Malawi has sent a big number of
students in 2010 and will willing fill up the whole college
I told Eliza that I am no more the Principal of Don Bosco
College, but she kept asking with eagerness about the place
and the people there. The face book group of Don Bosco
PPA Malawi registers 116 members and is increasing
rapidly. One can get the feelings and remember the last ten
years in the sharing of the past students. Sometimes I read
a gossip about Fr.Wojcieh as one of them calls him Munthu
wamkulu(
). The secrets of the happy old
days can spice up the good memories.
'Ten Years of Service and Commitment' reads the Tenth
anniversary slogan. The progress and development this
Institution has made is tremendous. “The school has 612
http://www.dbc-malawi.org/index.php
h t t p : / / w w w . d b c -
malawi.org/comment/.
https://www.facebook.com/#!/home.php?sk=
group_196654633694105
Malawi on the Focus
By Bro. Walter Thyrniang sdb
Increasing a
ccess to
and improvin
g quality of
Vocational E
ducation in M
alawi
Bro. Walter Thyrniang, former Principal of Don Bosco Youth
Technical College (DBYTC) - Lilongwe; now attache of the
PDO Director and student at Cavendish University in Lusaka.
10 Salesian NewslinkZMB
Activities
with their students we allowed. May be the Management Programme in Uganda commented; “…Keep it up. I have
has other ideas. There is a close link between the Institute the pleasure to have known Don Bosco College-Lilongwe
and the Catholic University, let the Principal make an in Malawi.
official statement on that but it is known that an official Among the Don Bosco Schools I have visited, you are the
envoy (Justina) has been sent to the University. best.”
The service of this esteemed Institution extends to the
Primary and Secondary Schools, Prison, District Youth
Offices, Villages and Hospitals. Social Projects and
Educational outreach programmes are daily tasks of the
Principal, Managers and staff of Don Bosco College. Skill
Development Initiatives, Tevet Induction Programme and
Technical and Vocational Education in Schools are some
of the intervention methods of reaching out to the young
people. The Institute is championing a ICT
Project/programme with other partners in Malawi and
supported by Education and ICT Organisation from the
Netherland. The project is to use ICT as a means to increase
access to and improve quality of education in Malawi.
Mr. Pacifique Niyibizi working for World Food
Malawi on the Focus
ADLYouth
Archdiocese of Lusaka
Fr. Clement MULENGA SDB
Youth Animator
11Salesian NewslinkZMB
News from MOSHI
We also become nostalgic
sometimes...
Some people say we meet to part and
part to meet. But I don't buy this
very year, in the month of expression. I believe we neither meet
February, the provincials to part, nor do we part to meet. When
whose confreres are doing you love somebody, you will always E
their postnovitiate formation in be with that person, you will carry him
Moshi, come for a curatorium. This in your heart. Today at table we were
year the curatorium was attended by joking and remembering some past
the provincials for ZMB, AFE and pupils of our college, we remember
AFM. Others present were the them because we love them. We did
delegate for the Sudan, and some not meet them so that we may part
councillors from AFE province. It was with them, and we did not part so that
a beautiful moment, for us young we may meet. We met not by choice, School and Bendel Memorial High
confreres to spend some moments not by coincidence, but by providence School. I for one, set out with a lot of
with our provincials. and they remain part and parcel of our zest and gusto thinking that I am going
What struck me is the fact that college. to deliver data to the young people.
Salesian superiors are so much at ease However, it did not take me too long to
even with young confreres, and the release that the teaching experience is
young confreres also find themselves actually a learning experience. I am
at ease with them. The atmosphere in learning a lot from the teachers in the
Moshi was said to be conducive for school I am.
formation. I for one also concurs with
such an assessment of the situation. But my greatest teachers are my
Don Bosco Moshi is a conducive students. It is from these young people
place for one to grow in his Salesian that I am learning what it really means
vocation especially for us post- to be a good student and a good
novices. The growth I am referring to teacher. Besides these young people
is not only the intellectual growth. are not TABULA RASA, they know a
This growth is holistic, including *********** great deal. They are already pregnant
human, spiritual, and apostolic with ideas and my role as a teacher, is
maturity. Don Bosco Moshi has The Teaching Experience is a the role of a midwife, who helps them
produced many a good Salesian, this Learning Experience to deliver.
legacy is going on, and will go on! Moreover, for us Salesians, education
The second year students at Don and evangelization are intertwined.
We ask God to continue raining his Bosco Post-Novitiate Moshi are The two cannot be divorced they are
blessings on us, as we undergo our currently having their Block Teaching married. Thus the teaching experience
formation at the foot of the Practice in various schools in Moshi. is also a beautiful occasion for us to
Kilimanjaro. These schools include Don Bosco bring Christ to the young and the
Youth Training Centre, Karanga young to Christ.
********* Secondary School, Mawenzi High
Curatorium 2011
By Cl. Joackim Mzanywa sdb
...my greatest teachers are
my own students
and more...
12 Salesian NewslinkZMB
missing luggage that was eventually found by the grace of God.
Thanks be to Him! And thanks for all your answered prayers.
However the use of the machine does not mean that the novices
have been taking it easy, there is serious cultivation taking place
in the garden. Around this time we have a lot of maize growing in
the garden and around the property which might not even be
finished bearing in mind that we are in the month of Lent. So
please, you are all invited to come and help do justice to them.
Apart from that, the novices have planted a lot of vegetables in
variety immediately after harvesting the tomatoes which
preceded them.
The novitiate community was invited for a thunderous Don
Bosco feast celebration at the Provincial House in Chawama, in
the evening of our Founder?s Feast Day, which began with Mass,
followed by a feast, song and dance all in honour of our Father.
The novices thought it wise to extend the feast celebration in
their different apostolate places, City of Hope and St. Francis De
Sales as well as Bosco Boys in Kasisi, so that the youth may feel
e are back with another update from the Prayer- the living spirit of their ?Father and Teacher.? In City of Hope the
Power House. Greetings! The past few months celebration was postponed till the 12th February whereas St.
have been active, joyful and spiritual, packed with Francis De Sales anticipated the celebration a day before the W
many different activities. This time our update begins with an actual feast day. Overall, the work being done in the apostolate is
incident most unusual and yet full of inspiration. During the really booming and the novices can not hesitate to echo the
immediate days that followed the installation of the new words of their Father, Don Bosco, when they say with the youth,
provincial, apart from his interaction with the novices as ?Here in your midst, I feel completely at home!?
mentioned in one of our previous updates, Fr. George came
one afternoon with a mission of playing soccer with the During the period of the absence of the Rector, who attended a
novices on their limited field, because of the few containers meeting for those involved with formation in Togo, Fr. Bruno
still remaining and our mostly present Lufubu truck. The and the novices extended their affection for the young and went
Provincial (bear footed) and Fr. Bruno joined the novices for a to visit some street kids in their house where they have made a
match which by no means was taken lightly on the account of home under the guidance of one kind and enthusiastic American
our two senior confrere. Imagine that (…)! since then Fr. woman, Carol. This brave woman spends her time taking care of
George been coming for different games whenever he finds boys on the streets of Lusaka, these boys are then brought to her
space in his busy schedule. home were she tries to rehabilitate them and if possible introduce
them back into their families. The novices went to visit this
Good or bad news? Well it all depends on your judgement. The project immediately after attending Mass at St. Joseph Mukasa
novices are no longer using their slashers for ?playing golf.? Catholic Church together with the street boys and girls.
They have been promoted from the use of slashers to the use of
?a petrol operated slasher? for hitting the golf ball (grass), The following day, Fr. Bruno took the novices for some
which is one of the products as a result of Baba Bruno?s adventure to ?Adventure City? where they were to spend the
Initial Formation
That they may have life
and have it to the full
13Salesian NewslinkZMB
whole day, which they nearly did if it hadn?t been for some was enough to set ablaze in some of the novices, the desire for
sudden injuries they attained on the water slides, all in the the missions, especially in Asia, but also in Africa. This was
name of trying to take a picture on the slide which at the end followed by the beginning of his extraordinary visitation to
of it all they didn?t even manage. This added more fun to their South Africa, which was anticipated with the three AFM
adventure but at the same time prompted them to return home novices. He then celebrated Mass for the community and his
so happy and tied despite the ?minor? injuries. visit was concluded with lunch. But that was not the end of it.
In the evening, the community was invited to Chawama
Fr. Joseph Czerwinski was received and accompanied with where Fr. Klement gave a conference to the Salesian Family
prayers by the novitiate community during the period of his on the missions, who later had Evening Prayer and dinner
operation and recuperation. He is now part of the community with him.
at least for a while as he awaits his forthcoming home leave.
?Gee……? how nice it is to have him around. So fatherly and Kalemba courses continue, and this time the novices went to
optimistic! learn more about the New Testament with Fr. Gottart and
later had an experience of the Psalms with Br. Ignatius at the
We had numerous birthdays celebrations for one full month. Christian Brothers, and now they are just finishing another
19th January, 1st, 3rd , and 19th February for Breven Brian, course on ?Addiction.?
Fr. Bruno, Br. Sylvester and Cl. Alexio, respectively. Fr.
Bruno's and Br. Sylvester?s Birthdays? celebrations were As we are well into Lenten Season we pray that you all may
combined and celebrated on the 5th of the same month due to prepare yourself well for the coming Easter Triduum. Please,
the fact that their birthdays were so close to each other. keep our community in your prayers during this special time
of the year.
The councillor of the missions, Fr. Klement was warmly
welcomed by the novices when he visited their community Thank you!
accompanied by the ZMB Vice-Provincial. After going
round the house, the community gathered around him for a
little chat where he shared his experience in the missions and Fr. Chris Rychcik and the Novices
gave guidelines on how to apply for missions. His experience
- Fr. George the provincial is a yoga master. His favourite
yoga position is standing with his head on the ground and
the feet up. The PYD and Secretary (Fr. Antonio) tried this in
the swimming pool with little success.
It seems this is a good position for meditation and
reflection. We will be seeing the fruits of Fr. Provincial's
thought the next few years. Of course when the head is
Hello thinking people! down, the eyes look up; it is easier to see the sky (heaven). So
if we have run short of ideas maybe it is because our heads
Glad to be back on this column after a long absence. Just a are too high and we are looking down all the time!
few point this time and hope to continue in the next
publications of news link. Think!
- A quick glance at the list of ZMB confreres, 46% of us are
wearing spectacles. This is a good sign because it means that
most of us have overcome our short sightedness or long
sightedness and able to see in good perspective. While those
confreres who are not wearing any lenses are seeing things
(life) in perfect condition.
I hope this reflect our daily life. I knew a veteran Salesian
once who changed his spectacles very often because they did
not give good vision after a while. The optician discovered
after the fifth time that he never did any cleaning of his
spectacles- the reason why he could not see properly.
- The average age of the confreres in ZMB is around 38yrs.
That is young comparing to congregational statistic. While
in Malawi the life expectancy for men is 38, 'we are dead'. 'I
should think', most of us would have accomplished what we
want with our lives.
Initial Formation
Thinking Point
By Bro. Walter Thyrniang sdb
14 Salesian NewslinkZMB
M
is
si
o
n
Ad GENTES
Woe to me if I do not preach
the Word of God
(San Paul)
There are many young churches
that need missionaries to develop and grow.
There are many dioceses and countries
struggling with poverty, persecution,
oppression, war, and immense suffering
that need missionaries
to witness to the light and love of Christ,
bringing hope for the future.
The Church
can never “withdraw
from her permanent mission
of bringing the Gospel to the multitudes
—the millions and millions of men and women—
who as yet do not know Christ the Redeemer of
humanity”.
Therefore, all Catholics,
by reason of their incorporation into the Church
at Baptism, should fully participate and cooperate
in Christ's ongoing mission “to the nations.”
(Ad Gentes 40)
15Salesian NewslinkZMB
16 Salesian NewslinkZMB
Mission Animation
17Salesian NewslinkZMB
Social Networks
find their strength
in their capability
to foster interaction
at all levels...
SOCIAL
Fr. Javier A.
Barrientos sdb
zmbsocialc@zmb.co.zm networks
he World Wide Net (WWW) is entering people’s lives at which make up their set of values, religious beliefs, political
an amazing speed; looking at its historical development, affiliation, etc; although there are still those who did not go Tthe internet is no longer a privilege of a few but a space beyond this initial level. Here in Africa, most especially in
where anyone can interact with the world. One of the most Zambia, telephone networks such as MTN allow their
recent developments in the world of the internet is the famous customers to log in and use the zero Facebook which is an
‘Social Networks’ which allow people to become active agents interface that connects the Facebook user to the internet at no
of information, entertainment, business and even social cost (so long as it is text only). Thousands of youngsters make
change. The power of the social networks is its capacity for use of this possibility to get in touch with family and most
interaction. Besides being free, social networks make it especially friends, share their views on politics, religion,
possible for people to interact at various levels: personal culture, etc. Also Salesians in ZMB are on the social networks,
relationships, education, politics, social life, culture, religion, linked to hundreds of friends and relations, even the novices
etc. For what some people fear, especially some governments who do not enjoy full-time internet have already their
and institutions, in the social networks is that there are no facebook accounts.
restrictions to what a person or group of people, think, do, etc. There are however some questions for all of us Salesians: Are
Therefore, the possibilities offered in those networks are we prepared to use them? Do we use them efficiently? What is
basically unlimited. They go beyond entertainment and leisure. the use we give to the social networks?
According to statistics from the beginning of the year,
Facebook has reached more than 560 million users while Prudence is extremely recommended; yet take up the
Tweeter is in second position with nearly 220 million users. In challenge!
the social networks people seek much more than friendship
and love, people now join in the defence of some noble causes
Social Communication
18 Salesian NewslinkZMB
PROJECTS & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
PDO
History: Mandated and Approved by the Provincial council.
The first meeting was held in January 2001. Since
then six meetings have been recorded to discuss
various projects such as Construction of Training
Centers, Churches, Youth Centers, Staff/Volunteer
Houses, Multi-Purpose Halls, Salesian Resident
Houses, Establishment of Radio Station and
Purchase of Cars and Equipment.
Vision: Promotion or moral, spiritual, social and educative
development of underprivileged young boys and
girls in the aspect of inculturation of the Salesian
Charisma.
Mission: ZaZiMaNa Salesian Development Office is a non-
profit charitable organization with the aim of
strengthening the development of SDB and FMA
Provinces.
Secretary
(Rachael Lombe)
Attaché
(Br. Walter Thyrniang)
DIRECTOR
(Fr. Leszek Aksamit)
Present Staff:
Fr. Leszek Aksamit sdb
PDO DIRECTOR
the road ahead
...
In the current situation
of the world’s economy,
there is a need to become
more aware of the importance
of the promotion of local people
and resources.
An economy of solidarity
is one of the ways forward
to meet with the demands
of charity and human promotion.
The Salesian centres
in the four countries of ZMB
are constantly engaged
in the education, evangelisation
and human promotion
of young people; therefore
financial resources are geared
to continue this endeavour.
Joining hands, minds
and resources
will enable us to continue
the dream of Don Bosco
of making of the young:
“Good Christians and
Honest Citizens” of the world.
Trusting in God’s Providence
as truthful sons of Don Bosco...
19Salesian NewslinkZMB
RECTORS’ MEETING
CHAWAMA - LUSAKA (ZAMBIA) 16-18 March 2011: Annual Rectors’ Meeting.- The newly elected provincial of ZMB Fr. George
Chalissery met with all the rectors of the ZMB communities at the provincial house in Lusaka. Fr. Czeslaw Lenczuk, vice provincial of
ZMB briefed the provincial of the latest developments in the province and animated some of the sessions of the first encounter
between the provincial and the rectors. Novices and sisters participated of the concluding mass on the last day.
Provincial Events
STEPS TO BECOME A PROVINCIAL IN ZMB
Humility Determination Courage Enthusiasm PerseveranceMethod
For more information visit our
website:
or follow us on Facebook
www.salesianszmb.org
Salesianos ZMB
Printed in Lusaka - Provincial House | P.O.BOX 31148 | All rights reserved
7. Kabwe: Young people from the youth
centre while visting a centre for Orphaned
and Vulnerable children.
8. Lufubu: Fr. Waldemar Molenda spraying 1. Hwange: Fr. Klement Vaclav, Mission
premises of the farm against mosquitoes.Councillor while visiting the community of
9. Lilongwe: Young people during a seminar Hwange.
organised by the youth centre.2. Lufubu: Fr.Dennis Higgins, Fr. Joseph and Fr.
10. Lilongwe: Bro. Walter Thyrniang and Fr. Czeslaw during the last provincial council
Michael Mbandama during the hand-over meeting of 2010.
party to the New Principal of DBYTC.3. Makeni: Novices singing in honour to Mary
11. Bauleni: Fr. Boryczka, superior of the on the Feast of the Immaculate.
Circumscription of Mary Help of 4. Lusaka: Fr. Joseph welcomes Fr. George
Christians, receiving the vows of the Chalissery at Lusaka International Airport.
practical trainees.5. Chawama: Fr. George Chalissery signing the
12. Rundu: Cl. Raphael Lungu printing t-shirts acts of the protocol after his installation as
for the youth centre.new provincial of ZMB.
13. Lusaka: Fr. Clement Mulenga at the 6. Chawama: Provincial celebration after the
concluding mass of ADL Life Matters Prog.installation of the new provincial of ZMB.
(Archives)
zmbsocialc@zmb.co.zm
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LEGEND
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