Melbourne, Australia, 21 November 2023 -- Working with and for youth in special needs and migrant families are priorities for a number of Salesians in Australia and the Pacific. On 18-19 November, a small number of migrant youth from Burmese backgrounds with their families gathered at Don Bosco Retreat Centre at Lysterfield in Melbourne.
The Salesian Provincial of Australia-Pacific, Fr. Will Matthews SDB, led the retreat weekend, together with a number of capable youth leaders from different parts of Melbourne. Fr. Will gave a presentation on faith being necessary for these migrants who may find life difficult settling in Australia.
The participants also enjoyed prayer and social moments in this picturesque part of Melbourne. The Sunday Eucharist was a highlight of the weekend, where all participants were encouraged to multiply their talents for their good and the good of others.
Fr. Jude Johnson, an assistant priest from Geelong, also led many activities with the youth on Sunday bringing them absolute happiness and joy.
Fr. Shane Reade SDB, the director of the Retreat Centre, was very welcoming, generous and accommodating to the needs of all participants. He led the final adoration and benediction during which he encouraged them to be good leaders serving the needs of others.
