The newly appointed provincial received 'Road Map 2017-2023'
RMG, 18 July 2017 -- After six days in Rome the newly appointed provincial-elect of Australia-Pacific Fr. William Matthews got his 'Road Map 2017-2023' as a clear direction in his service of authority. In order to govern and animate the large multi-cultural province that comprises 4 different countries Fr. William received from Fr. Angel 12 specific indications. Although the Road Map is explicitly addressed to the Provincial and his council, the Rector Major encourages each new provincial to study it with his Council, then with the Rectors and at the end to share with all confreres of his provincial community.
Encounters, prayers and meals with Fr. Angel F. Artime and his Councilors, getting know many of the General house community confreres and lay staff - was an introduction to the large picture of the Salesian Congregation. And personal talks with the General Council members were the best time of mutual knowledge and exploration of the multi-facet reality of Salesian charism today.
For Fr. Matthews it was his first visit to Rome (although he visited in WYD team the holy places of Don Bosco in Piedmont), on the weekend he received a good pilgrim guide - a Burmese student of theology (Ratisbonne) to pray in all major Basilicas and celebrated the Eucharist also in the Basilica of St. Peters (Vatican). The Sacro Cuore (Sacred Heart) and Pius XI. Salesian communities visit offered a good insight into the Italian Salesian culture and pastoral work.
"It's a honor to lead the Australia - Pacific towards the Centenary celebrations in 2023. I give thanks for the rich experience in the General house at this moment. Although I'm overhelmed by so many new informations, these five days was a very fruitful time now, five more month before the start of my new ministry as provincial." - in these words Fr. Will does sum up his first experience in the General House.
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