Animation visit of Fr. Ivo Coelho in Japan

By Fr. Daisuke Kitagawa, SDB

Tokyo, Japan, 16 March 2017 -- In addition to the meaningful experience of the EAO Team Visit in Hua Hin, the Japan Province had another opportunity to feel fraternal communion of the worldwide Congregation. Immediately after the EAO Team Visit, the two formation houses of the Province, Chofu and Yokkaichi, welcomed Fr. Ivo Coelho, the General Councilor for Formation.

His visit to the junior aspirantate (age 12 – 18) of Yokkaichi took place on Sunday, 12th March. In his informal meeting with the young aspirants, Fr. Ivo encouraged them to grow in the relationship with Jesus. Vocation is all about asking the Lord “What do you want me to do in my life?” and trying to say “Yes!” to his invitation. After the meeting was held a festive meal, part of which was prepared by some of the aspirants. As is the Salesian tradition, an “Academy” followed the meal. Joyous and happy moment was shared together through magic trick, dancing and singing.

Two days later, Fr. Ivo found himself among the young confreres in formation at Chofu seminary (aspirants, novices, post-novices, and seminarians together). During the 1-hour-and-half interactions, Fr. Ivo emphasized [1] the importance of faith, which becomes more solid through our constant and daily experience of Jesus Christ, and [2] the meaning of being a Salesian religious, which gives us the fundamental identity before being a priest. The meeting with the seminarians concluded with the community lunch and he left for Rome the same day.

Fr. Ivo’s visit to Japan, especially to the young men in formation, has reminded us of the importance of deepening our relationship with Jesus day by day, that endures from our youth until our last breath as a Salesian of Don Bosco.

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