from the FIS Provincial Superior

Itisalmostnaturalforpeopletofocusonthemselvesfirstduringa crisis.Andtoacertaindegree,thatisnecessaryandbeneficial. However,ittakesadeepermotivationtolookbeyondselfand performactswhichprioritizeotherpeoplewhoaremoreinneed ofassistance.

The pandemic since March 2020 kept many of us inside our houses, bringing us down to our knees People were in isolation, and work –having work – was a challenge Each family and each workplace had to find a formula to work around the personal, social, and economic upheaval And then, on December 2021, on the first day of Misa de Gallo, came super typhoon Odette which destroyed not only homes but also the sense of normalcy that we were ever so slowly beginning to feel after nearly two years into the pandemic It shattered what little control we seemed to have Six Salesian centers in FIS were affected and faced multiple emergencies with severely strained resources and capacities The efforts of these Salesian Centers had to take on a two-pronged prioritization --- the needs of their constituents to rebuild their lives as well as the repair of damaged structures. Indeed, our constituents need our facilities up and running. Our institutional programs can effectively make their mark with good, functional structures.

CelebrationsandChallenges

There were outstanding manifestations of generosity and selfsacrifice shown by donors, individuals, and Salesian Communities. They exemplify the sample of the Yeast Jesus spoke of in the Scriptures. He emphasizes that even though we may not always notice it, God is working constantly and many times quietly in and through people’s lives, providing others with the “bread of life” that they need to have life to the full. He reminds us that He is able to use the smallest good to bring abundant goodness.

The FIS province experienced how different groups of the Lay discovered the importance of their role in the Salesian ministry and the complementarity that exists among members. Donors from both abroad and local have given small amounts to help those in need, especially those who were badly affected by both the pandemic and the typhoon.

Taking inspiration from the yeast, the Salesian Family has helped create change and growth in their communities.

The months of difficulty have reminded us how much we rely on each other not only in times of emergencies but that we are all called to express holiness as a family providing support and strengthening each other through good example. These manifestations are also our way of witnessing and teaching our young people with whom we walk side by side. By involving them in the various activities of assistance, we saw how individuals can inspire others to do the same, thus creating a community of "yeasts" who work together to make a difference in the world.

Likewise, quite recently, the FIS, through an Educators’ Congress, has encouraged teachers to inspire their students to explore and learn new ideas. Our alumni in politics have rallied others to take action on important social issues. We thank the Lord for all their "yeast-like" manifestations to create something new and meaningful. Like yeast, those who seek to create change and growth may need to move quickly and adapt to changing circumstances. This can be both exhilarating and exhausting, requiring constant focus and dedication to the cause.

However, being a yeast also comes with its challenges. Obstacles and negative reactions, and consequences over the good deeds done may surface. For example, as a community of educators, the FIS feels that it needs to face the controversial issues brought about by Gender Ideology. We know that advocacy and (re)education over respecting one’s gender will put us face to face with opposition, criticism, or even backlash from individuals and groups with differing views. But we seek to enlighten and refresh our constituents and those who care to listen and be aware of the basic truths of our Christian identity. A yeast can spur newness over precepts that have been taken for granted.

Indeed, there is newfound energy and enthusiasm in our Salesian Family growing together as evangelizing witnesses and missionary disciples. Their optimism and enthusiasm bring hope to the FIS to create positive changes and growth that can inspire and empower others to embrace their own potential for impact in a world that truly needs it.•

Delegatesto"LevelUp:FISSalesian Educators'Congress"heldlast MarchinSalesianRetreatHouse, Lawaan,TalisayCity,Cebugamely smiledforthissouvenirphoto. PhotobyJanOdivilas