By THA SC

       Chiangmai, Thailand, 29 May 2023 -- On 27 May 2023, Bro. Andrew Surachai Rattanayomngamdee made his religious perpetual profession in the Salesian Congregation. Fr Anthony Boonlert Paneetatthayasai, the Provincial, presided at the ceremony held at Mary Help of Christians Church, Doi Saket, Chiangmai. Some 300 people attended the celebration made up of the Salesian confreres, members of the Salesian Family, relatives and the faithful.

       Bro. Surachai is a faithful member of the Church of All Saints in Mae Jaem, Diocese of Chiangmai. He is the first aspirant from Don Bosco Home, Doi Saket to make his final vows in the Salesian Congregation. We can say that he is first product of the formation in this aspirantate, counting from the opening of this house in 2009.

       In an interview with Don Bosco Magazine - Thailand, Bro. Surachai spoke about the beginning of his vocation: "I came to know the Salesians through a friend who invited me to join the 'Salesian vocational camp' at Don Bosco Home - Doi Saket. At that time, I did not know the Salesians at all, who they were, where they work. But when I touched base with them during the camping, I began immediately to like them, and I wanted to be an aspirant. I was chosen. I thought that this must be the will of God. From that time until now, I am with the Salesians and I received formation from them until now."

       For Bro. Surachai, the joy of being a Salesian lies in being in the midst of the young, seeing their holistic growth in life, and in giving without expectation of any return.

       During the perpetual profession ceremony, Bro. Surachai expressed foremost his 'thanksgiving': I thank the good Lord, I thank the Salesian confreres, I thank my parents and relatives. I thank the benefactors and my friends who have always extended their encouragement. I have nothing to give in return but my prayers. I will do well whatever duty I will be entrusted with. I implore the Lord to bless you all.

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