Anisakan Don Bosco Retreat House, Myanmar, 28 August 2019 -- The second day (28 August) of the EAO Translators Workshop was spent in intense work on the 'Salesian Translators Handbook' (version 2-3) and lively interaction with Myanmar nature, culture and religion. Thanks to the overhelming hospitality of the hosting Vice-province all participants already felt very much at home in the 'Don Bosco Retreat Center' and spent the two morning sessions in intense group work on the 'Handbook' and the whole afternoon until the good night talk was dedicated on getting to know Myanmar.
During the two morning sessions, the four groups of translators were given the task of working on the 'Salesian Translators Handbook' (version 2) through their experience, sharing and inserting specific points for the whole process of translation, spirituality and formation of Salesian translators from many different points of view. Before lunch the only participant and resource person from South Asia Region - Fr. George Thadyathil (India-Kolkatta province, Principal of Sonada College - presented an inspiring experience of the 'Salesian Translation Center' in his province.
The whole afternoon was dedicated to the experience of our Myanmar cultures, religion and beautiful nature around Anisakan - Maymyo. With two minibuses the EAO translators were able to visit the 'View Point' (large valley with waterfalls and pagodas), nearby Buddhist Meditation center, one Buddhist temple, our Salesian Postnovitiate in Pyin Oo Lwin (Rector Fr. Lucas Dau Ze) and the last stop was in the Flower garden. After Vespers in the retreat house Fr. Charles Saw (Superior of MYM) presented the past and present of the Viceprovince of Mary Help of Christians (since 1939).
The highlight of the day was the cultural evening animated by the youth - both SDB Nazareth Aspirantate high school students and FMA Mornese Students. In colourful dance presentation. Our EAO translators got the chance to see the traditional dances and costumes of the main Myanmar ethnic groups - Kachin, Chin, Bamar, Shan and Karen. During the presentation there was a brief presentation and photo session from all Salesian Family translators. The whole wonderful evening concluded with joint prayer and a good night talk by the EAO regional councilor. Fr. Klement gave thanks to all present and highlighted the beauty of volunteer services - presenting both 2 SALVO Filipina (English teacher) volunteers and 11 former Nazareth students who offer one year of their life to serve their younger brethren as assistants and teachers.
