Laga, Timor Leste, 16 January 2024 -- Fr. Andre Belo, SDB, installed as the New Rector of the Community of Laga Laga- East Timor, 4 January 2024, Fr. Andre Belo, SDB was installed as the Rector of the Community of Laga in the TLS Vice-Province for the period of 2024-2027. The installation was done during the Adoration to the Blessed Sacrament and the Solemn Vespers of Thursday before Epiphany, which was led by Fr. Provincial, Fr. Anacelto Pires, SDB.
In his statements, Fr. Provincial thanked Fr. Andre for his readiness to take on this office. In Addition, Fr. Anacleto echoed the Salesian Constitutions (Art. 55) on the duty and authority of the Rector at the service of the community. The rector represents Christ, who unites his followers in the service of the Father. He is at the center of the community, a brother among brothers who recognize his responsibility and authority. His first task is to animate the community so that it may live faithful to the constitutions and grow in unity. At the same time, the rector also extends his solicitude to the young for whom we work and to our collaborators so that they may share in the community’s mission with increasing responsibility. Article 55 concludes by saying, “In his words, frequent contacts and opportune decisions, he is a father, teacher, and spiritual guide.”
Fr. Provincial also thanked Fr. Rui Gomes, SDB, who has completed his service as the rector of the community of Laga for six years. He then requested all the members of the community to work hand in hand in order to build a beautiful community grounded in family spirit, according to Salesian Spirituality given to us by Don Bosco.
Fr. Andre is currently assigned as the Principal of the Don Bosco Secondary School, Laga. The newly-appointed Rector has also done missionary experience in Bangladesh and Malaysia. Let us accompany Fr. Andre as he begins his task as the Rector in the Service of the Congregation for the Glory of God and the Salvation of the Young.
The installation was held in the Parish Church of Laga with the attendance of the Salesian Confreres from Laga and Quelicai and Baucau Community.
