Philippines North Province, 4 July 2023 -- As the Pandemic is almost over, and everything is moving towards the “better normal,” the Salesian FIN Province is getting into its “regular rhythm.” The annual practices of the province were gradually catching up. One of these is the Yearly Spiritual retreat of the FIN Salesians.
The Preacher was no other than the Archbishop Emeritus of Rabaul, PNG, His Excellency Francesco Panfilo. He is also a former Provincial of the FIN Province.
A large number of Salesians joined the first and second batches of retreatants.
Most interestingly, the topics Abp. Panfilo spoke on are, in summary, the Centrality of God in our life and mission, the imitation of Don Bosco and Mary as models for the Salesians, and prioritizing the essence of the persons or the confreres in the community.
During this retreat, we will be guided by four main sources: The Missionary Discourse of Jesus: Matthew Chapter 10; The Apostolic Exhortation “Vita Consecrata” (March 25, 1996); Documents from the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, such as:
“Congregavit nos in unum Christi Amor” on “Fraternal Life in Community” (February 2, 1994); “Faciem tuam, Domine, requiram,” on the Service of Authority and Obedience” (May 11, 2008); “Manete in dilectione mea,” on “The Gift of Fidelity and the Joy of Perseverance” (February 2, 2020), and Salesian Documents, particularly the Constitutions and General Regulations.
During the first batch of the retreat, the weather kept all the Salesians close to each other, for it had been raining for almost five days. Therefore, only some were out of the compound.
Moreover, the conferences of Abp. Panfilo were so light and short but deep and relatable.
Most of his stories and reflections were about his ministry in PNG as a Bishop and his experiences in the Philippines when he was a young Salesian and a Provincial Superior.
Everyone felt relished and satisfied with their "Spiritual banquet" with Abp. Panfilo. Many of the confreres have outstanding feedback about the whole spiritual retreat, especially regarding the wise preacher.
To sum up the event, it was indeed a great journey and Spiritual revamp for everyone.
