Building Community and Embodying Christ
Clifton Hill, Melbourne, Australia, 13 March 2024 -- Salesian Rectors, Vice-Rectors and members of the Pacific Delegation from communities in New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, and Australia gathered to celebrate the end of the first day of the Australia and Pacific Province Rector's Meeting (held in Ascot Vale), in the Salesian Formation Community in Clifton Hill. The Eucharistic celebration was led by Father Peter Hoang (Provincial) assisted by fellow Salesian priests. Brother Silao Moeloa and Brother Dat Phung accompanied the community with hymns.
Father Peter drew inspiration from readings of the day during his reflection, drawing parallels between the flow of water as a source of life and hope and the potential for great achievements of our Salesian work in the Province. He encouraged his fellow confreres to envision their communities as sources of animation and optimism, where the Salesian Spirit, the charism of Don Bosco, flourishes and grows in unity in Christ.
He urged Salesians to bring grace and life to those around them through the mission of Don Bosco. Salesians should strive to be a visible image of Christ to young people in various settings, such as in Youth Centres, Parishes, Retreat Centres, Don Bosco Camp Centres, and Salesian schools. In these environments, Salesians are called to embody the qualities of love, compassion, and guidance that Jesus exemplified during his ministry.
It was also a great opportunity for young Salesians who are currently in Clifton Hill to meet other Salesian confreres from other communities in the Pacific and Australia.
The celebration concluded with a community dinner, generously prepared by a Vietnamese benefactor.
