‘austraLasia’ # 103
SAN JOSE BLESSINGS
L. Capelli
MANILA: 8th October – Saturday October 3 will go down in history as the day of the solemn blessing of the Trainign Centre of San Jose, Nuova Ecija. Everything was perfectly prepared for the blessing of the shops, lecture rooms, canteen, gym and 9 roomed convent. The celebration began around the table of the Lord and ended around the table of fraternity. The 48 manpower students (in perfect straight cut like Bro. Lito’s) and in colourful long sleeves camiso-de-cino (is that the right spelling?) prepared the liturgy and the songs with impeccable precision under the guidance of Fr. Noel at the organ, a trainee at the lead guitar and an instructor at the drum set. Bro. Ernie prepared the liturgy of the blessings and gave clear orders all the way. Fr. Favie did a good job remembering all the invited guests by name…from the city mayor to the doctor, the architect, the contractor, the benefactors and all the friends of Don Bosco in San Jose. We can truly say that all enjoyed belonging there and felt a sense of pride for belonging. The Bishop and Bro. Comino were duly acknowledged as the founding fathers of the centre even though they could not be present.
Most Houses were represented by especially a good number of Salesian Brothers and technical directors: Makati, Mandaluyong, Tarlac, Pampanga, Tondo, DBCS, Naga, PH were among the houses represented. The final dance numbers and songs from the traineees provided great entertainment during and after the fraternal agape. We congratulate Favie, Noel, Lito and Emie for the great job done for the immediate preparation of the blessing and all those who worked hard for the past years to make this blessing possible, both the confreres and the Misereor.
Looking at the joy and sense of achievement in the many alumni of the 4 batches present, one cannot but feel proud of this gift of God to the province which challenges us to radicality and fidelity.
