By Cl. Hai Van, SDB

Xuan Hiep, Vietnam -- On the morning of 5th December 2016, The Theological Institute in Xuan Hiep, Vietnam, celebrated the Feast of Blessed Philip Rinaldi, its patron. Present at the celebration were Fr. Provincial Nguyen Van Quang, Provincial Councilors, Rectors, religious men and women, theology students, parents of Salesians and aspirants of vocation center of Don Bosco Xuan Hiep. The day started with a prayerful program entitled: “Like Rinaldi, following the footstep of Don Bosco.” It aimed at encouraging Salesians to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly for the educational mission for the young.

During the Eucharistic Celebration, 8 second year clerics were installed as lectors, 9 third year clerics were installed as acolytes and 7 first year Salesian brothers received medals; the clerical investiture was also integrated in the Mass. Through this installation, the candidates toward priesthood were invited to progress in their holiness and zealously practice their ministries to proclaim the Word of God and deepen their love for the Eucharist.

Finally, everyone enjoyed a fraternal meal. The Feast day of the community was an occasion to encourage the salesian confreres of the Theologate to imitate the holiness of its Patron, Blessed Philip Rinaldi, in serving the poor and abandoned youth as sons of Don Bosco.

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