By Louella Pacada & Kristyl Adlawan

Cebu, the Philippines, 2 December 2024 -- On 23 November 2024, a simultaneous gathering took place in Cebu, Negros, and Davao to honor Mamma Margaret, fostering a sense of community despite the distance.

In the Cebu Cluster gathering, the day was highly engaging, beginning with Father Godofredo Atienza, SDB, the FIS-Cebu Salesian Family Delegate, encouraging participants to get to know each other. He even promised a prize to the person with the most listed names.

Following the GTKY (Get-to-Know-You) activity, Father Godofredo Atienza, SDB, delivered a talk on the life of Mamma Margaret, highlighting three key points:

• Mamma Margaret as a wise educator
• Mamma Margaret as the first Salesian Cooperator
• Mamma Margaret as a lover of prayer

He emphasized how Mamma Margaret’s guidance of St. John Bosco served as a moral compass for all Salesian members and continues to inspire virtues and principles for mothers in society.

The talk concluded with a sharing from a past pupil, who stressed the importance of supporting future Salesian priests, whether through financial, moral, or spiritual means.

The program then moved on to the blessing of the newly built comfort rooms, led by Rev. Orlando Borres, SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Boys Home in Liloan.

The morning segment concluded with a Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Orlando Borres, SDB, and con-celebrated by Rev. Fr. Wilbert Dianon, SDB, Rev. Fr. John Vernil Lopez, SDB, Rev. Fr. Godofredo Atienza, SDB, and Rev. Fr. Andy Satura, SDB, who served as the homilist.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Andy Satura, SDB, underscored the key message of the Gospel: “God is the God of the living and the dead.”

The afternoon program began with a Lunch Agape, a potluck-inspired setup where Salesian members from various settings brought food to share. This meal and the final part of the program were held at the Papal Hall.

The last segment of the event, was hosted by Ate Leona Jane Villanueva, an ADMA-Lawaan representative, and Br. Jude Baring, a DBFC Prenovice, featured performances from different Salesian groups. These presentations showcased not only the members’ devotion as Christians but also their diverse talents.

The day concluded with a visit to St. John Bosco Parish in Liloan, where the Salesian family offered a pilgrimage prayer and a song to St. John Bosco.

The commemoration of Mamma Margaret’s feast was a day filled with profound insights, shared meals, and spiritual renewal through God’s grace. Her transformative role in the life of St. John Bosco continues to inspire us, reminding us of the enduring legacy of a supportive and faithful mother.

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