Mandaluyong City, the Philippines, 14 November 2023 -- The eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year holds significant meaning in the Salesian Congregation. It marks the day 148 years ago when the Salesians sent missionaries to the world for the first time, with Argentina being their destination.
This historical milestone is commemorated by celebrating Salesian Missions Day (SMD). Since its inception in 1988, the SMD has adopted a theme aligned with the missions of the Salesians of Don Bosco. This year’s theme is “Care of Creation: Our Mission.”
The Provincial Missions Day of the Philippines North Province took place in the Roderick Flores Hall of Don Bosco Technical College, Mandaluyong. Fr. Ronilo Basilio Javines, SDB, Rector/President of DBTC Mandaluyong and the concurrent Provincial Delegate for Social Concerns, extended a warm welcome to the participants through Fr. Dennis Silvestre Casaclang, SDB, Provincial Delegate for Mission Animation.
The event is a pivotal moment for increased commitment and sustained efforts in collaborative initiatives to address the ecological emergency. It seeks to instill a realization among educators and evangelizers regarding their roles in promoting holistic human development, integral ecological consciousness, and social transformation.
Halfway through the program, the Tourism, Housekeeping, and Food & Beverage TVET Bosconians of Don Bosco Tondo performed a colorful street dance presentation, creatively synthesizing the theme.
The event intends to celebrate collaborative achievements and best practices in reducing our carbon footprint, mitigating climate change impacts, and assisting victims of ecological catastrophes. Additionally, there is a focus on updating our knowledge based on the current ecological state from both local and global perspectives, with particular attention to the 2023 Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Salesian Missions theme on Caring for Creation, and Pope Francis's new expositions in 'Laudate Deum.'
The participation of policymakers (Rectors, Administrators, Parish Priests, Facilities Managers) and implementing duty-bearers (heads and animators of local green teams, Social Concern teams, Missionary groups, and Sodalities) of the Salesian settings is key to the way forward of this event. Fr. Gerardo Martin, SDB, FIN Provincial Superior, gave the closing remarks.
The Provincial Missions Day 2023 in DB Mandaluyong is a testament to the Salesian commitment to addressing the pressing issues of our time, particularly the ecological emergency. As participants reflect on the insightful modules and engage in meaningful discussions, the event catalyzes renewed dedication to the care of creation and the holistic development of individuals and communities. The Salesians, inspired by their historic mission, continue to strive toward a world where the beauty of our common home is preserved, the Gospel is shared with the most vulnerable, and the path of love and stewardship is illuminated for all. With a shared mission and a strengthened resolve, the Salesian community looks ahead, ready to embrace the challenges of our era and champion the cause of integral ecology.
