St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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Contents St. John Bosco Today
Volume 50 | Issue Number 4 | April-June 2021
A Magazine of Information and Religious Culture of the Salesian Family in the Philippines
Editor’s Note ............................................................ 3
ABOUT THE COVER The cover puts the spotlight on the passing of the baton as these new Provincial Superiors are installed in their respective Provinces: Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA as the new Provincial Superior of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians–Philippines & Papua New Guinea Province; and Fr. Fidel Ma. Daza Orendain, SDB as the new Provincial Superior of the Salesians of Don Bosco Philippines—South Province Read the highlights of the installation rites, bio notes, and message excerpts on the inside pages. Cl. Paul Dungca, SDB conceptualized this issue’s cover.
EDITORIAL TEAM Owner Salesian Society of St. John Bosco Printer Don Bosco Press, Inc. Publisher Don Bosco Press, Inc. Editor-in-Chief Fr. Donnie Duchin Duya, SDB Associate Editor Fr. April Jerome Quinto, SDB Contributing Editor Fr. Angelo Savio Sanchez, SDB Copy Editor Ms. Ma. Cristina Dacillo Coordinators Fr. Keith Amodia, SDB (FIS) Province, Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA, and Ms. Imelda BenitezDomitita (ASC) Art Director Ms. Early Macabales Graphics & Design Studio DBPI-Creative Arts Section Circulation Ms. Charlene Endaya For subscription, please contact Commission on Social Communication 3/F Don Bosco Provincial Office, Don Bosco Compound, C. Roces Ave. cor. A. Arnaiz Ave., Makati City, Philippines Tel (02) 8893-8227 loc. 114 | Telefax (02) 8892-8174 Annual subscription rate (4 issues) Php 300.00 Send your comments and suggestions to cscom@one-bosco.org /salesian.bulletin Copyright© 2021 by Don Bosco Press, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. 2
St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
Message of the Rector Major .................................. 4 Much Greater than the Hills of Monferrato SALESIANITY 101 St. Francis De Sales: Do All Through Love, Nothing Through Constraint ................................... 6 FEATURES Bionote: Fr. Fidel Ma. Daza Orendain, SDB ............ 8 Loaves and Fishes... .............................................. 9 Installation of the New Provincial Superior of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians .................. 12 Salesian Youth in Cebu .......................................... 15 Asociacion Damas Salesianas marked its 53rd Anniversary ................................................... 17 Miracles at Work in Community Pantries .............. 18 The Courage of the Past Pupils of the FMA ............................................................... 21 May Always Merry, Always for Mary ..................... 23 FIN-FIS NEWS Forever Yes: SDB Perpetual Profession Held in FIN .............................................................. 25 FIN Province Holds the 7th Don Bosco Film Festival Awarding Ceremony ......................... 27 Forming Future Salesians as Laudato Si Animators ............................................................ 28 A New Priest for FIN Province ................................ 29 EAO WORLD NEWS “You are Salesians in the World”: World Delegates Address Salesian Cooperators Worldwide .......................................... 30 Moved by Hope: 12th Asia-Oceania DB Past Pupils Congress ...................................... 31
Salesian Garden
on Earth
editor’s note
The containers which hose our plants are recycled from big oil cans given by some friends who own restaurants.
CHALLENGES
PHOTO BY FR. DONNIE DUCHIN DUYA, SDB
Fresh hauls from our rooftop garden: pepper mint, lemon grass, kangkong, basil, and more!
O
ne item in our community plan of life is to maximize the rooftop of the Provincial House to grow plants that could be used in the kitchen for food or plants that could adorn our community chapel. More than just following the bandwagon due to the pandemic, this step is our way to minimizing the cost in our community expenditures and also as our way of showing support to the Laudato Si movement begun by Pope Francis in caring for the environment. That tiny garden has yielded our community harvest– kangkong, alugbati, mints, tarragon, lemon grass, okra, pechay, ternate, calamansi, and eggplant, to mention a few. Our once barren chapel is now teeming with greens. The mini garden in the community has given a refreshing verdant feel that breaks the monotony of the urban jungle. On top of all these, we’re able to practice segregation of our trash. Kitchen wastes such as vegetable trimmings, eggshells, and brown paper are added to our vermicomposting bin. Rice water (hugas bigas) is kept in a receptacle that is used to nourish the plants and to ward off pests.
Manang Nora, our laundrywoman and a plant enthusiast herself warned me that the cell site tower transmitters installed on our rooftop would thwart the growth of our plants. This, I noticed, in our squash plant and even guyabano tree which would bear flowers initially but would not yield fruits. Along with this challenge are pollution, excessive sun exposure, and even the scarcity of soil. And of late, we’ve noticed that caterpillars and snails have joined the fray in torturing our helpless plants. And yet, the plants continue to thrive and populate because of care and attention.
This issue of St. John Bosco Today is likened to the garden, pestered by many harmful elements. Our experience of this pandemic, which has been over a year now, has continued to challenge our Salesian ministry. The most convenient thing to do is to just rest easy in order to keep the COVID-19 risk at bay. However, flipping the pages of this issue, you’ll see the rich harvest the Salesian Family in the Philippines continue to generate despite all odds. No pandemic will stop the children of St. John Bosco from the task of education and evangelization. “Those who cultivate gardens cultivate joy.“ I must have read these words etched on a pebble placed in the gardens of Don Bosco Batulao. The Salesian Garden promised by Don Bosco in Paradise, we enjoy right here on earth.
Fr. Donnie Duchin Duya, SDB Editor-in-Chief St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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Much Greater than the Hills of
MESSAGE OF THE
RECTOR MAJOR
MONFERRATO By Fr. Ángel Fernández, SDB
A
ll of Don Bosco’s pedagogy is encapsulated in these autumn outings: familiarity and camaraderie; joy and celebration; a time to walk, as one walks along the paths of life; space for conversation and friendship; and Don Bosco’s good and kind presence. It was the month of August 2015. More precisely, it was the afternoon of August 15th and we were celebrating the 200th anniversary of Don Bosco’s birth with 5 200 young people from all over the world in the International Youth Encounter (SYM DON BOSCO). Initially, with an idealism far removed from reality, we on the planning team thought it would be possible to walk with those 5 200 young people from Turin to the hills of Becchi, the place where John Bosco first saw the light of day. The distance would be about 35 kilometers. But we soon realized that we had to give up our plan. It would be very difficult to keep up a good pace with so many young people. In the end, we decided to do something very simple, which is directly connected with many of Don Bosco’s autumn walks with his boys. We started the walk in Castelnuovo Don Bosco, the town where he was baptized and where he celebrated one of his first Masses. We walked those eight kilometers that separated us from Becchi together with that great column of young people—but under a torrential downpour all the way. The rain had been predicted—and it came. But this mattered nothing to us and much less to those young people. I could not stop imagining Don Bosco surrounded by his boys, carrying baskets of bread for their lunch or snack, and musical instruments to cheer them up wherever they went. Do you know that behind it all is a precious vision— one both educational and spiritual? I could continue to develop this thought myself in telling the story, but I have chosen to leave it to one of my Salesian brothers, José Miguel Núñez, who has an extraordinary talent for writing: For many years, Don Bosco used to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary at Becchi, accompanied by a handful of boys who followed him with unimaginable joy. They were the best boys of the Oratory. For all of them, it was a 4
St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
reward to be with Don Bosco for a few days on vacation. In the beginning, there were only a few, but soon, they numbered more than 100. His first stable destination was the land of his birth and his beloved family home. Joseph, his brother, gladly welcomed that horde of boys and accommodated them as best he could in barns and stables, taking
care to provide what was necessary. Certainly, there would be inconveniences, but good Joseph knew how to look the other way and make things run as smoothly as possible. After 1858, Don Bosco established true “marches” through the villages of Piedmont and the neighboring provinces. He himself planned the itineraries and entrusted his boys to friends and benefactors who welcomed them into their homes or prepared some snacks for that “battle-ready army”— whenever it came to quelling hunger. Fruit, freshly baked bread, or a piece of cheese was generously offered by the locals, who were enthusiastic about the hustle and bustle that this priest brought for he had the reputation of being a saint. Though he tried to downplay this fervor, more often than not, it was without much success. THE FARMERS LEFT THEIR TASKS Beautiful testimonies of those joyful days of celebration and of unforgettable experiences when accompanying
To Don Bosco, it seemed as if he were in heaven as he rejoiced at the smiles of his young people and their festive songs. Prayer and benediction with the Blessed Sacrament in the village church were a constant.
Don Bosco for so many young people have been passed down to us. One of these boys, Anfossi, wrote this: I always remember those trips. They filled me with joy and wonder. I accompanied Don Bosco through the hills of Monferrato from 1854 to 1860. We were about a hundred young people and we saw how the fame of sanctity already surrounded Don Bosco. His arrival in the villages was a triumph. The parish priests of the surrounding area and usually the civil authorities also came out to meet him. The people looked out of the windows or went out into the streets and the farmers left their tasks to see the Saint… All of Don Bosco’s pedagogy is encapsulated in these autumn outings: familiarity and camaraderie; joy and celebration; a time to walk, as one walks along the paths of life; space for conversation and friendship; and Don Bosco’s good and kind presence, Like that of an adult accompanying another along his or her journey, he has a good and kind word for everyone and extends a gesture of closeness and solidarity with those who show greater difficulty in reaching the goal. The music and the celebration flooded their hearts and reawakened enthusiasm in those young people. They were happy to be close to this father whom they admired so much and to whom they were so grateful. In perfect marching formation and playing their musical instruments, the advent of Don Bosco’s boys in those small villages of Piedmont must have been quite an event.
GOD WALKED WITH THEM The boys were filled with wonder and joy. To Don Bosco, it seemed as if he were in heaven as he rejoiced at the smiles of his young people and their festive songs. Prayer and benediction with the Blessed Sacrament in the village church were a constant. Their father’s affection was rendered worthy of their trust thanks to the familiarity they experienced along the way. Without knowing it, many of those young people would continue to travel with him throughout their lives— much greater than the hills of Monferrato. I am thinking now about how important it is for us to invite our adolescents and young adults, our “digital natives” who live immersed in the digital world, to experience the richness of personal encounters (and not through a telephone screen): the precious exercise of listening to each other; of laughing together; of being silent during a simple prayer; of marveling at a sunset; of experiencing the joy of greeting the elderly who are resting for a while on their porch, watching people pass by—they who have already lived life abundantly, thanks be to God. I leave you these words which the Pope addressed to us Salesians at our General Chapter: “I like to think that we are still very capable of dreaming and of helping others dream.” With all my heart, I wish you a happy summer.
Fr. Ángel Fernández, SDB Rector Major St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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St. Francis De Sales:
Do All Through Love, Nothing Through Constraint By Fr. René T. Lagaya, SDB
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t was at 8 PM on the 28th of December 1622, at the age of 55, when St. Francis de Sales entered into heavenly glory. The year 2022 will commemorate the 400th anniversary of the glorious demise of the saintly Bishop of Geneva. The Salesian Society should celebrate this event with joyful solemnity. After all, St. Francis de Sales appears five times in the Salesian Constitutions: (1) Title – Constitutions of the Society of St. Francis de Sales; (2) Article 4: Form of our Society – “Inspired by the goodness and zeal of St. Francis de Sales, Don Bosco called us Salesians and gave us a programme of life in the motto: ‘Da mihi animas, cetera tolle’”; (3) Article 9: Patrons and Protectors of our Society – “Don Bosco entrusted our Society in a special way to Mary, whom he made its principal patroness, as well as to St. Joseph and to St. Francis de Sales, the zealous pastor and doctor of charity”; (4) Article 17: Optimism and joy – “Inspired by the optimistic humanism of St. Francis de Sales, he believes in man’s natural and supernatural resources without losing sight of his weakness”; (5) Article 24: Formula of Profession – “Father, may your grace, the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, of St. Joseph, of St. Francis de Sales and of St. John Bosco, together with the assistance of my brother Salesians keep me faithful day by day.” 6
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A certain “Fabio Chigi, the papal nuncio in Cologne, was elected pope as Alexander VII in 1655. He claimed to have been healed of a serious illness through the intercession of Francis de Sales. He thus, decreed that the process for his beatification be accelerated. Miracles abounded: 47 persons were raised from the dead; 19 deaf-mutes were healed; 12 were cleansed of leprosy; 20 blind people regained their sight; 102 cripples were able to walk again. Pope Alexander VII beatified Francis de Sales at St. Peter’s Basilica on 8 January 1662. A little more than three years later, on 19 April 1665, Good Shepherd Sunday, Blessed Francis de Sales was solemnly canonized by Pope Alexander VII. It was with a voice strained with emotion that the Supreme Pontiff enrolled the Bishop of Geneva in the saintly list of the true heroes of Christianity. On 19 July 1877, Pope Pius IX proclaimed St. Francis de Sales as Doctor of the Church. With the encyclical letter Rerum omnium perturbationem, dated 26 January 1923, Pope Pius XI proclaimed St. Francis de Sales as the Patron of Catholic Writers and Journalists” (René T. Lagaya, SDB, Ask for Nothing, Refuse Nothing: The Life Story of St. Francis de Sales, Makati, Word & Life Publications, 2011, pp. 96-97). All these realities prove the holiness of St. Francis
SALESIANITY 101 de Sales. But what is really at the core of the enticing holiness of St. Francis de Sales? An event in Paris may be of help. “In the autumn of 1584 at the Sorbonne, he attended the biblical lecture of the Benedictine monk Gilbert Génébrard on the Book of the “Song of Songs.” The saint fell in love with this Old Testament book attributed to King Solomon. Meditating on it filled him with inexpressible joy. It became the inspiration of many of his later writings” (Lagaya, p. 16). This inspired book describes true love thus: “Set me as a seal on your heart, as a seal on your arm; for stern as death is love, relentless as the nether world is devotion; its flames are a blazing fire. Deep waters cannot quench love, nor floods sweep it away. Were one to offer all he owns to purchase love, he would be roundly mocked” (Song of Songs 8:6-7). The Second Vatican Council, in its Dogmatic Constitution on the Church Lumen Gentium, states in its fifth chapter on the Universal Call to Holiness that holiness consists in “the perfection of charity” (n. 39). St. Francis de Sales reached the pinnacle of holiness because he excelled in love. He did all through love, nothing through constraint.
problem of predestination became St. Francis’ overriding preoccupation. He was profoundly affected by the conviction that he was predestined for damnation” (Lagaya, p. 16). “This conviction brought him immense pain and untold sadness. He appeared to be undergoing a bout of severe depression. But in reality, he was going through a genuine spiritual purification. Already as a student at the threshold of adulthood, his motivations needed profound clarification and utmost purgation. In January 1587, he wandered into the Dominican church of St. Etienne-des-Grès. He approached the altar of the Black Madonna and on his knees found himself praying the Memorare: ‘Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided.’ It was a prayer of trust in the power, intercession, and loving care of the Mother of God. He prayed it in deep self-surrender. He was saying in his heart: ‘If you have destined me for hell – then this I accept in utter surrender to your will. But, Lord, only this I ask – even in hell allow me to love you!’
St. Francis de Sales reached the pinnacle of holiness because he excelled in love. He did all through love, nothing through constraint. The American developmental psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg explains that fear of punishment and hope for reward are what motivate a person in the initial stages of moral development. One is constrained to comply with adult demands so as to avoid physical pain or not to lose material gain. But at the highest stage of moral development, the human person acts for love. The Apostle John says, “Love has no room for fear; rather, perfect love casts out all fear. And since fear has to do with punishment, love is not yet perfect in one who is afraid” (1John 4:18). What brought St. Francis de Sales to such sublime heights of love? It was his “experience of the dark night of the spirit” (Lagaya, p. 16). “This occurred towards the end of his studies at the French capital. Paris was alive with discussions on the doctrine of predestination. Basically, it taught that since nothing is hidden from God, the destiny of every single individual is known to God from the very beginning. Such human destiny, whether for salvation or for damnation, whether heaven or hell, was thus, already predestined or predetermined by God. You can do nothing to alter your fate. You must just accept your destiny as already decided by divine foreknowledge. The
He became convinced that whatever would befall him would always be a loving act of God, because indeed ‘God is love’ (1 John 4:8). The saint felt indescribable relief and overwhelming peace. He spontaneously made a vow of total dedication to God in celibate chastity. No trace of this youthful crisis was ever evident in the saint’s later life. St. Francis was purged of all selfish and worldly motives – only the love of God would rule his life and move him in all his endeavors” (Lagaya, pp. 16-19). St. Francis de Sales discussed at length the love that brought him utter surrender to the divine will in his work Theotimus, the Treatise on the Love of God. In Book VIII, he spoke of “the love of conformity, whereby the soul surrenders itself to the divine will expressed in God’s commandments, counsels, and inspirations. Book IX deals with the love of submission, by which the human will is united to God’s good pleasure. Book X expounds the commandment to love God above all things” (Lagaya, p. 69). The Patron of the Salesians of Don Bosco spent his life striving to make God happy. This could only be done is he would do all through love, nothing through constraint. St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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bionote
FR. FIDEL MA. DAZA
ORENDAIN, SDB
F
idel Ma. Daza Orendain was born in Manila on April 24, 1965 to Victor Orendain and Betty Daza. He is the 6th of 7 children - 6 boys and a girl. Betty must have read from a Salesian Calendar and saw that the 24th of the month is dedicated to our Blessed Mother, Help of Christians, that she gave the boy a second name, Maria. Fidel grew up in Bicol and loved hiking in the farm, swimming in the river, flying kites, and collecting knives. As a hobby, he recounts, he picks locks and opens car doors. He studied elementary at La Consolacion School and high school in Don Bosco Juniorate in Pampanga. He proceeded to study college in Don Bosco Seminary in Canlubang. After going through the Salesian stages of formation, Fidel was finally ordained priest on December 8, 1993. Fr. Fidel had further studies in University of California, Berkeley and Georgetown University, and took certificate courses in the American University. Earning a Doctorate in Communication, he graduated summa cum laude from the University of the Philippines Open University. In St. John Bosco he saw zeal, creativity, perseverance, and resourcefulness, inspiring him to become a Salesian. His favorite saying from the saint would be “If we are one in heart, we can do ten times as much.” Among his confreres he looks up with admiration to are Fr. Felix Glowicki and Bro. Bernard Villasanta. He said, “the charm of Don Bosco’s creative love to serve youth, save souls” and Isaiah’s commitment to the Lord “Here I am, send me” inspired him to become a priest. Fr. Fidel received the call from the Rector Major last December 2020, informing him of his appointment as the 6th FIS Provincial. He wanted to haggle with Fr. Angel knowing the weight of the responsibility and his own shortcomings as a person. After his discernment, he accepted the appointment as a “gratitude and fear of the Lord.” Fr. Fidel has a rich pastoral experience. As a brother, he was assigned in Don Bosco Boys Town in Cebu. As a student of theology, he ministered in Don Bosco Tondo, Sta. Clara Parish in Pasay, and Sto. Niño Parish in Taguig. He spent summer pastoral immersions in Don Bosco Pasil and Don Bosco Borongan. He was appointed as the Social Communications delegate of the province for 20 years. As a priest, he ministered in the formation house in Don Bosco Lawaan and served as catechist, and then rector in Don Bosco Technical College-Cebu.
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FEATURE
“Loaves and
Fishes:
An Offering of New Leadership and the Provincial Community of the Salesian Philippine South Province” By: Fr. Keith Amodia, SDB
T
he Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes was filled with around 200 guests. There could have been more attendees and the pews would have been filled but the restrictions of the pandemic had to kick in. It was the 24th of May, Solemnity of Mary Help of Christians. Several were wearing pink. These were the members of the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA) who came for the occasion. The day was a special one since it is also the feast day of the Philippines South Province (FIS) which was named after our Lady. The FIS Province was canonically established from the Salesian Philippine Province (FIL) back in 1992. Fr. Peter Zago, SDB then was its first provincial superior. Now, its sixth superior would be installed. Fr. Fidel Ma. Orendain, SDB was Rector of Don Bosco Technical College when he received the call from Rome last December. The consultation for the new provincial just concluded a few months before. Recognizing an overseas number, Fr. Fidel knew what it already meant for him. “Pray over it. The discernment of the council guided by the Holy Spirit led the choice to you,” the Rector Major, Fr. Miguel Angel Artime, told Fr. Fidel. “Using the words ‘discernment’ and ‘Holy Spirit’ leaves you defenseless,” Fr. Fidel told this author. Fr. Fidel gave his consent to be the sixth provincial of the FIS Province. The outgoing provincial, Fr. Godofredo Atienza, SDB, Marian as he is, picked the Feast Day of Mary Help of Christians for the installation date. Fr. Fidel would take on the service of leadership for 106 confreres, which is particularly challenging to begin in the middle of a pandemic. The front pews were filled with Salesians priests and brothers from Cebu. While most of the confreres from the
Fr. Fidel shared
that he said yes to the appointment not because he was good at it but because God and the people have been good to him. He said he gave his ‘yes’ because it affirms what religious life stands for, otherwise, the faith he preached would have no meaning. St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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other islands were restricted from coming, most of the rectors were enjoined to represent their communities. Masks on, smiles were obstructed from view, but the excitement and joy of those present can be seen from people’s eyes. As the choir composed of formands from Don Bosco Formation Center Lawaan and the Salesian Music Ministry sang the entrance song, a short procession proceeded from the entrance of the shrine. Fr. Godo, as the outgoing provincial, presided over at Mass. Together with Fr. Fidel, both were flanked by servers as they walked towards the altar. With them was the provincial insignia, the outward symbol of the office to be passed on from one leader to the other. At the homily, Fr. Godo highlighted the reality of transition. The difficult journey of global society through the pandemic, the regular turnover of assignments among the confreres, and the measures each family had to undertake in order to address the flux of times speak of change. But even in difficulty, he said, there is grace in the promise that God will bring his people to a new age. Taking from the Gospel reading, it only takes five loaves and two fishes, Fr. Godo said, for Jesus to transform our humble offering to something great. He shared that Fr. Fidel lived his Salesian vocation with the “disposition to be always in wonder.” He highlighted how Fr. Fidel had to juggle and multitask with five offices at one time. This, he opined, must have caught the attention of the superiors. Addressing Fr. Fidel, he urged the next provincial to allow his creativity to ‘grow more and more over the course of time.’ He challenged his successor to use his gift of synthesis in order to create a clearer picture of the flux of changes, so this big picture
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can be a rallying call for the province. This, he said, can be Fr. Fidel’s five loaves and two fishes. He urged the Salesian Family present to give their ‘utmost collaboration and support’ to the new provincial as the present day alter ego of the Rector Major and of Don Bosco. “Light precedes every transition. Whether at the tip of a passageway, through a crack in the door or the flash of an idea, it is always there heralding a new beginning,” he quoted at the end of his homily. After the homily, Fr. Fidel took his place at the front of the altar. One hand on the Bible, he professed the Faith and his fidelity to the Church. Then, he prostrated himself before the altar as the whole assembly sang the litany of the saints. He then received from Fr. Godo the insignia of the province. The people welcomed the new provincial with a loud applause. After the Mass has concluded, Fr. Fidel addressed the Salesian Family. He shared that after his ‘unsuccessful bargaining’ with the Rector Major, he called up Bishop Patricio Buzon to ask for spiritual advice. The provincial emeritus, he shared, laughed at him and quipped, “the irony of the moment.” The good bishop told him to “be clear with his motivation, to say yes if you feel at peace.” Fr. Fidel shared that he said yes to the appointment not because he was good at it but because God and the people have been good to him. He said he gave his ‘yes’ because it affirms what religious life stands for, otherwise, the faith he preached would have no meaning. He hopes that by keeping faith just like many biblical personages, God would equip those he called. He thanked the tireless service of Fr. Godo marked by his openness, simplicity, and kindness.
FEATURE He cautioned the confreres to tone down their expectations. “I do not bring with me a list of promises that would needlessly raise expectations to unnecessary heights. But, I honestly can say that despite the defects you already know about me, I will do my very best to work for the ministry,” he said. He invited his brothers that as he puts in his own share of loaves and fishes prepared and cultivated in him by the Blessed Mother, they, too, may add theirs. He asked the whole province to work together in the ministry and in the witnessing of the Salesian vocation. “Renewed Commitment and Consistency in Building Communities for Christ” is his theme of leadership for the next six years. In this spirit of synodality, both Fr. Godo and Fr. Fidel chose to use the annual retreat of the Salesians as a bridge and a listening venue in this journey. The new provincial guided the confreres two weeks later on a week-long retreat at the Retreat House in Lawaan. This was followed by another batch composed of those who could only attend it online. In the retreat, the new provincial shared his reflections and synthesis of the realities of the Salesian work in Visayas and Mindanao, and in the communities of the province. The confreres responded with their own personal and group reflections on how to bring about a renewal of commitment and consistency. The Commission on Formation gathered the responses and suggestions from the retreat which the Provincial shared with the Rectors and the Commission heads weeks after. Pointing again to the thrust of the Rector Major and the previous priorities of the province, Fr. Fidel asked the group to revisit and update the plans,
and to integrate new needs and challenges in both the ministry and in the communities. The new provincial is thus, hinting at continuity, renewal, and also innovation in the way Salesians from the FIS province live their identity and vocation. “The road ahead can be paved but bumpy at most,” Fr. Godo also shared in his homily. Real challenges beset the Salesian communities and the ministry for the south province. Yet it is with courage and optimism, just as those Salesians present in the installation rites, stood together for a photo with the new provincial at the end, the whole Salesian provincial community and the Salesian Family stand together, marching forward to the next six years. They walk to the Lord united in spirit and vision, in their hands their loaves and fishes.
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Installation of the New Provincial Superior
of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians-Philippines and Papua New Guinea Province By Sr. Princess Mae Ortiz, FMA
D
on Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila – In the midst of the dark clouds of the pandemic that cover the entire world, on June 29, 2021, Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, a New Pentecost has descended upon the entire Philippines–Papua New Guinea Province as the Installation of the new Provincial Superior, Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, the 7th Provincial Superior of the Philippine Province, took place at the Don Bosco School Chapel, Sta. Mesa, Manila. As the Apostles gathered in the upper room, the entire FMA Provincial Community also gathered online at 10:00 AM to celebrate this momentous event in the life of the Province. The Solemn Eucharistic Celebration was presided by His Excellency, Bishop Broderick Pabillo, D.D., Apostolic Vicar-elect of Taytay, Palawan, and was attended only by the FMA Communities of Manila: the Provincial House, Laura Vicuña Center, Pius Ladies’ Dormitory, and Don Bosco School. The Eucharistic celebration began with the tribute and symbolic ritual of expressing our thanks for the service rendered by Sr. Mabel Pilar, FMA, the outgoing Provincial Superior. In her message, she began with the words taken from the Psalm 118: “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad!” for the tangible presence of the Lord and our Blessed Mother in the past six years of the journey and life of the Province. She particularly addressed Sr. Teresita her gratitude for saying YES in this mandate that has been entrusted to her.
“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad!” for the tangible presence of the Lord and our Blessed Mother in the past six years of the journey and life of the Province. 12
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FEATURE
“God is gracious and His love endures forever.”
She invited her to embrace the delicate mission with the heart of the Good Shepherd with the same Spirit that spurred Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello with the missionary impulse that is so alive even in our present time. Sr. Mabel gave the assurance to Sr. Teresita of her accompaniment and prayers of the intentions of Sr. Teresita and the Province, and to our brothers and sisters in need. She reminded her of the presence of Mary Help of Christians and invited her with the words of Jesus Himself: “Do not be afraid, I am with you.” To all the Sisters in the province, she invited them to be signs and bearers of God’s love for the young. The handing over of the statue of the shepherdess and offering it before the statue of our Blessed Mother symbolizes the reality that it is our Blessed Mother who is the true Superior of all our houses. Bishop Pabillo, in his homily, pointed out that in doing God’s will all the other things will be provided for. He assured us, as Jesus assured Peter, that whatever happens, God is always with us. He promised his everlasting protection. He also invited us to be faithful to the teachings of the Pope as Don Bosco was despite the many difficulties that are creeping into the life of the Church. Be strong in our commitment to take care of the family. During the Prayers of the Faithful, special prayers were offered for the new members of the Provincial Council: Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, Sr. Maria Josefina Carrasco, Sr. Maria Elizabeth Marquez, Sr. Rachel Melissa Flor, Sr. Maria
Pamela Vecina, and Sr. Maria Victoria Sta. Ana. Prayers were also offered for the newly appointed community animators: Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, Sr. Rachel Melissa Flor, Sr. Teresa Lorenzo, Sr. Arlene Rafaela, Sr. Lyn Yap, Sr. Veneranda Casala, Sr. Catherine Urgello, Sr. Maricor Ortañez, Sr. Gertrudes Candelaria, Sr. Rica Cebuano, Sr. Phebe Lacse, and Sr. Lilimae Escasinas. They also offered candles in their respective communities and were streamed live via Zoom. Via live-stream, Mr. Walter San Diego, the chairperson of the Provincial Educating Community Core Group, led the welcome ritual on behalf of all the members of the Provincial Educative Community who were represented by the personnel of Don Bosco School. Sr. Teresita opened her message with the lines from the scriptures: “God is gracious and His love endures forever.” She highlighted her deep and tangible experiences of God right from the moment she received her obedience from Mother Yvonne Reungoat last February 9. Despite the fears and inadequacies, she is secured of the profound certainty of God’s presence. With full trust and confidence, she accepted this mandate coming from God. It is in the awareness of her limitations and fears that she acknowledged the reassuring presence of God in this delicate mission that she is called to assume. It is also here that she takes our Blessed Mother by the hand, asking her to walk with her day by day. St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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Sr. Teresita expressed her gratitude to all those people who have been with her all throughout her journey. Sr. Teresita Cainglet Padron, FMA is the 4th of 7 children of the late Dr. Ernest C. Padron, and Mrs. Juliana Uy-Cainglet, born on May 16, 1966, in Cebu City. She completed her basic education at the Colegio de San Jose Recolletos, Cebu, and her Bachelor’s degree major in Economics at St. Theresa’s College, Cebu. She obtained her Master of Arts in Education major in Educational Administration at the Ateneo de Manila University. She also attended the Course for Formators in Rome, Italy. She was a Principal in several FMA schools in the Philippines. In the Province, she also served as Provincial Councilor, Youth Ministry Coordinator, Provincial Team Coordinator, Commission on Education (COMED) Coordinator of the three FMA school sectors: Higher Education Schools, Basic Education Schools, and the Technical Vocation Institutes, COMED Head for Basic Education Schools, Delegate to the Provincial Educating Community Core Group, and Community Animator. Sr. Teresita first met the Salesian Sisters at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Punta, Cebu when she was in 4th year high school. She decided to become an FMA as she started seeking God’s will in her life and in finding meaning in all things that she is doing.
EXCERPT Sr. Teresita’s Installation Message Let us continue to walk together in gratitude to God for His abounding love, mercy and compassion. May we continue to open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and accept daily his invitation to grace and conversion so we can live life to the full and enjoy the fullness of the spiritual graces God has in store for each one of us. Let us strengthen our love and devotion to our Blessed Mother entrusting ourselves to her maternal love, care and protection. With her, let us build relationships and make our communities a seedbed where life grows in its fullness and where holy vocations are born. May we be for our young people missionaries of joy and hope in this modern time forever faithful to the charism handed on us by our dear founder St. John Bosco and our co-foundress St. Mary Mazzarello. This new Pentecost in the life of the Province is indeed a time to be grateful for the journey that has been and for what lies ahead in the next six years in the life of the Province.
Despite the fears and inadequacies, she is secured of the profound certainty of God’s presence. 14
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FEATURE
Salesian Youth in Cebu: Together with the Diocese, forging a path for the next 500 years
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By Ms. Ofelia Aljade Ramos
he seed of faith was planted when the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan reached the Philippine soil. Five hundred years later, that same seed has matured and has been integrated within the myriad Filipino practices. With the desire to look back and appreciate the gift of faith and to strengthen our conviction and commitment of our duty and mission to share this faith, the Archdiocese of Cebu inaugurated the year-long celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity on the 4th day of April 2021, with the theme “Gifted to Give.” In response to the call to share our giftedness, and to the needs of the developing generation, the Commission on Youth of the Archdiocese of Cebu, headed by Rev. Fr. Andrei R. Ventanilla, held its Archdiocesan Youth Congress (AYC) last May 14-16, 2021, at St. Francis Seraph Retreat House, Maghaway, Talisay City, Cebu, with the theme, “Synodality: Gifted to Give.” The three-day Congress was participated by select members of the Cebu Diocesan Youth Coordinating Council, leaders from the seven ecclesiastical districts, representatives from the Family of United and Empowered Leaders (FUEL), and ministers from the Archdiocesan Campus Ministry. A good number of these were representatives from the Salesian Youth Movement, some of whom became officers in the Diocesan Youth Council. St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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The success of the AYC is proof that despite the different circumstances we Filipinos experienced during the previous years, the seed of faith that was planted 500 years ago has been deeply rooted, that not even the waves of the pandemic can uproot our faith from us.
The Congress aimed to reform the constitution and by-laws of the Commission on Youth of the Archdiocese of Cebu, 13 years after its last printed amendment, and make the structure of the commission to be more synodal and inclusive for the young people of the Archdiocese. In preparation for the Congress, a team from the AYC working committee went to different parishes, from the northernmost part to the southernmost part of the province, to give orientations and gather suggestions and proposals. Consultations were made with a legal counsel, and meetings were set with the youth directors before the final working document was printed and distributed to the participants of the Congress. The final working document was then used for the Congress for deliberations. After three days of debates, discussions, arguments, and of course, prayers, the body came up with the 2021 Constitution of the Commission on Youth of the Archdiocese of Cebu, this fruit of labor and love is our gift to the Archdiocese in line with the celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines, with the hope to make the future a better place for the young people. The said constitution is expected to be promulgated before the end of the year, and a team will be formed to discuss the constitution to the youth. The success of the AYC is proof that despite the different circumstances we Filipinos experienced during the previous years, the seed of faith that was planted 500 years ago has been deeply rooted, that not even the waves of the pandemic can uproot our faith from us. 16
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Even amidst the pandemic, Pope Francis reminds us to renew our enthusiasm for evangelization, reach out to others, and bring them hope and joy of the gospel. This quincentennial celebration not only reminds us to pray in thanksgiving for the gift of the Catholic Faith for the past 500 years, but we also look forward to the next 500 years to come.
Asociacion Damas
Salesianas
marked its 53rd Anniversary
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he Asociacion Damas Salesianas marked its 53rd Anniversary last May 13, 2021. The ADS International feels the immense joy in convening an Encounter to all the Damas Salesianas of the 115 Centers in the 24-member countries to celebrate its anniversary virtually. The ADS was founded on May 13, 1968, the Feast of our Lady of Fatima and of St. Maria Domenica Mazarello, co-Founder of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians with Don Bosco. Despite the pandemic, they are filled with gratitude as God does not stop to lovingly care for them. The virtual celebration started with the Holy Eucharist held at the office of Father Founder Miguel Gonzalez, SDB, at the ADS Headquarters Building in Caracas, Venezuela. The ADS General Spiritual Counselor Fr. Francisco “Pancho” Mendez, SDB, celebrated the Mass, followed by the video presentation on the experiences of the ADS Centers during the pandemic, and sharing of new ways on how to serve the beneficiaries in material and spiritual, in health, education and training for work. The event served as an opportunity for the Familia Asociacion Damas Salesianas Philippines (FADS) to meet with the other Damas Sisters in the different Centers. Language was not a hindrance. The experience and finding the joy, renewing their hopes in these critical and trying times is indeed a blessing and true to its organization motto “Sowers of Hope.” For the association to grow and continue to develop despite the pandemic, their efforts are directed to the recruitment of new Damas vocations and volunteers. They understand that their duty as Dama Salesiana is to continue to fulfill its mission, the evangelization through human promotion, giving priority to health care, education, empowering women and mothers, wives, and the salvation of the poor children and young people in the mission areas.
The experience and finding the joy, renewing their hopes in these critical and trying times is indeed a blessing and true to its organization motto “Sowers of Hope.”
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Miracles at Work in By Mr. Jerricho Reynaldo
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pantries, while keeping it an effort of, for, and by the community: “This is a movement by the people among neighbors. The Parish encourages parishioners to support the movement, by educating them to give and be responsible Christians for their ‘kapit-bahay.’ Should other people from other streets within the Parish wish to set up their own pantries, we continue to support them.” Part of the Parish community is Brgy. Pio del Pilar, with its own share of community pantries, the first one having been set up along Taylo Street, followed by two more in J. Victor Street and E. Ramos Street. Extending support to these community and youth-led pantries is the Parish Youth Ministry, tirelessly sourcing, organizing, and distributing donations coming in from both benefactors of the Parish and those who drop them off on the pantry locations. On days when the pantries rise, the line of people eager to take part starts forming hours before they open, with distributions efficiently done within a short time. “Based on our experience, the people would start falling in line as early as 10:00 am in the morning,” says Lorenzo De Castro of the Parish Youth Ministry. “By then, if we would already see a number falling in line, we will already begin distributing goods, to ensure that none of them would experience any health related problems.” He adds that the pantries usually last from 30 minutes to an hour per day, serving an estimated 90-150 poor people from the vicinity. Meanwhile, some Parish volunteers have chosen to support, and even organize, pantries in their own communities, which are no longer part of the Parish territory. Inspired by the spirit of bayanihan, these volunteers took it upon themselves to breed generosity among their own neighbors. One of these is Michael Beltrano, coordinator of the Parish Committee on Health, Safety, and Environment, who with his family set up a community pantry in his own Barangay Bangkal. “It was the initiative of our family to set up a pantry. During the pandemic, a lot of families were affected and
PHOTOS BY JOHN FRED CASTRO
stricter quarantine protocol was the least the capital wanted, but with cases of COVID-19 infections on the rise, as well as the imminent threat of more virulent strains of the virus, there was no choice but to place Manila and its nearby provinces (the “Bubble) under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) once again. This meant shorter days, lesser movement, and the closure of certain industries and businesses which supported and fed thousands of families. The effects were felt across those cities and provinces affected, which included Makati, home to the country’s central business district. Catering to the spiritual needs of the Makati CBD is the Parish of St. John Bosco which, throughout the pandemic, has seen its congregational attendance rise and fall, given the ever-changing number of attendees allowed during religious gatherings. Yet, throughout the lockdown of the past year (and counting), the parish remained resolved to attend to the poor of the community, having regularly organized social service efforts for the needs of the affected. Thus, when another ECQ loomed ahead, the community stood ready to extend a helping hand to its parishioners in need. It was during ECQ in the middle of April that the country was swept by the “community pantry” movement, which started as a small food bank by entrepreneur Anna Patricia Non along Quezon City’s Maginhawa Street. Intended to support all sectors of the community, from vendors to vagrants, each pantry posits that a citizen who approaches might need something from what is offered, while also having something to give back. This is championed by the famous slogan which spread like wildfire: “Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan.” (“Give according to your ability, take according to your need.”) Within a few days from the first pantry in Maginhawa, similar efforts were being organized across the country, including a number within and beyond the territory of St. John Bosco Parish. Fr. Ronnie Urbano, SDB, its parish priest, saw the need to support the
FEATURE
Community Pantries “
Still, persistence and the will to help keeps these pantries afloat. And while quarantine restrictions have been eased a little in the Bubble, the ever-present challenge that matters is that of keeping people alive, by way of both food and protection from disease. “It is challenging yet fulfilling. We have to ensure that we are following the safety protocols, because it is expected that a lot people will go to the pantry. Despite that, giving away the goods that we have to the people, and seeing them smile afterwards, really do make our hearts melt, motivating us to help even more,” says Michael. Lorenzo, on the other hand, is driven by the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2021 - Moved by Hope. “As Bosconians, in this time of trial, crisis and darkness in our society, we should be bearers of light and hope to others, especially the least, the lost, the last, and the forgotten, which is our poor brothers and sisters. To simply put it, we answer fear with hope, and so far through God’s grace and the generosity of other people, we continue to serve many people that have been greatly affected by this pandemic.” The community pantry phenomenon may be likened to the episode of Jesus’ life when he multiplied loaves and fish to feed the multitude gathered before him. What many do not know is that St. John Bosco, in his famous Miracolo delle Castagne, had a similar entry, having distributed roasted chestnuts meant for thirty to dozens upon dozens of children. It is after this event that people started to openly call him a saint. We, on the other hand, though not saints capable of multiplying chestnuts or loaves or fish, are all being called to holiness, to spread the joy of kindness and generosity however way we can. And in the end, the stories and the phenomenon are a lesson that God always provides, the community pantry being God’s way of telling us that miracles are at work in our lives.
Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan. (“Give according to your ability, take according to your need.”) a lot lost their jobs, unable to provide the daily needs of their families. Ever since, our family would always help other people in different ways and we found this an opportunity to share our blessings. Because of this initiative, people and businesses nearby our place also contributed in our pantry, which made us really happy. For almost two weeks, we would receive boxes and boxes of donations. This shows that a lot of people are really generous, someone just have to start and influence them to do so.” However, noble and inspiring these efforts may be, setting up these pantries would come with its own sets of challenges. According to Lorenzo, one of the first challenges organizers encountered even at the planning stage was fear, because of news reports of pantry organizers being “red-tagged.” “Community pantries were being forced to shut operations down because of threats being delivered to the organizers,” he says. The continuing rise of COVID-19 cases also remains a valid concern for organizers, with many having second thoughts about opening their own pantries in Pio.
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ST. DOMINIC SAVIO PARISH By Ms. Gay Castañeda Mandaluyong City, the Philippines, 30 AprilThe St. Dominic Savio Parish, Mandaluyong City launched its own version of community pantry last April 27 (first day of Novena of St. Dominic). A community pantry is a free service that provides food directly to the members of a community, suffering from food scarcity due to the pandemic. The supplies are pooled in by any member of the community, left in the pantry for anyone to benefit from. The idea behind it is that people could take as much as they need and donate whatever they can. This effort is spearheaded by Fr. Eduardo “Duds” Hila, SDB, our parish priest. The project is a collaborative effort of the 17 mandated organizations of the parish, local government units (LGUs), and private individuals of the parish. A bottom-up approach is initiated by the organizers where different organizations help in the entire process from asking for donations, packing, manning the pantry, inventory, and educating the people about the value of this project. The local officials are present to monitor the proper health protocol and social distancing for those people who will avail themselves of free essential goods.
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This time of pandemic when hunger is most visible caused a lot of worries, fear, and hopelessness among its parishioners and the parish would like to respond by showing more compassion, more kindness, more humility. The Savio community pantry shows a strong message of “ God’s love in action” “Loving my neighbor” where people who have more share their blessings and those who are in need only get what they need. Sustainability is a great challenge for the volunteers, but they believe in the kindness and generosity of individuals and families. They encourage the residents of the six barangays to share what they have and put them in the pantry station of the parish. Kindness is contagious, the essence of the community pantry of sharing will ripple down to the goodness of each individual, and the bayanihan (community spirit) spirit among Filipinos will prevail. We receive a lot of support from our parish priest and from other priests of the community. We thought our food supply would run out, but there was always something coming. We know that St. Dominic Savio continues to guide us in this time of need.
FEATURE
The Courage of the
Past Pupils of the FMA By Ms. Kathleen Iza Pagkalinawan
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hen NCR was placed under community quarantine in March 2020, we felt like we were trapped. The Association had existing plans and projects that we wanted to implement, but we didn’t know where to start and how to mobilize. The pandemic has impacted all aspects of our work. Running programs, acquiring partners and financial support, collaborating with other past pupils and volunteers all proved to be difficult. Despite not wanting to sit back and stay safe in our own homes, we were left with very little freedom because of the protocols in place. Even then, we would always think about what we can do and how to ensure that our projects will find a way to our beneficiaries.
The challenges brought by Covid-19 paved the way for us to think about innovative ways and new opportunities to reach out to our past pupils and continue on with our mission. The challenges brought by Covid-19 paved the way for us to think about innovative ways and new opportunities to reach out to our past pupils and continue on with our mission. Once we have set our minds into not letting this pandemic stop us from doing what we can do, we needed only to put faith in God who has always provided, our
Lady who has always interceded, and to heed the words of St. Mary Mazzarello to have courage to withstand it all.
FUND DRIVES
The pandemic has shifted priorities of people and organizations to help. While funding and support may be limited, the needs and the work continue to pile up. Since our funds are sourced mostly from individual donations, we had to rethink of how we connect and how we support our connections. Much effort was exerted in personally contacting past pupils and donors through instant messaging, emails, and social media. Through St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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these efforts, we were able to raise funds for the victims of Typhoon Rolly, Quinta, and Ulysses, and the flood in Victorias.
DIGITAL SCHOLARSHIP
The transition to online learning and home-schooling posed a threat to some students. While they can barely afford to buy notebooks and books, they now have to provide themselves with computers or tablets and internet connection at home. Hence, a Phablet Drive was launched to provide these
Hence, a Phablet Drive was launched to provide these students with the equipment that they need to continue their schooling. students with the equipment that they need to continue their schooling. Scholars from as far as Laguna, Cebu, and Negros received their phablets and wi-fi routers just in time for school.
Communication, Collaboration, and Formation
Since we cannot meet face-to-face, we have also found ways to adapt by using available technology for our meetings, assemblies, fellowship, and formation. Using conferencing and social media platforms, we have been in contact with past pupils not only in the country but in other parts of the world at almost no cost. We have also participated and helped organize events at the world level with other members of the 22
St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
Salesian Family and with the Confederation. We’ve had homecomings, general assemblies, formation of officers and delegates, election of officers in the local unions which were better attended now that they are happening remotely. Recently, we have conducted our annual Lenten Recollection, “Cross Encounters,” using a module prepared by the Federation. It was broadcasted via Facebook Live and through Zoom. As the Past Pupils of the FMA adapted to the constraints of the pandemic, we have strengthened our resilience by supporting each other. It is our mission to continue to find new ways and opportunities to reach out to and help those in need, for we are “hands in the world with our roots in the heart.”
FEATURE
May Always Merry, Always for Mary
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very day of the month of May is celebrated in the Philippine Catholic Church to honor Mary through praying of the rosary and flower offerings. Two years into the pandemic brought by COVID-19, devotees of our blessed Mother remain unperturbed by the many restrictions sanctioned by the government. For the members of the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA) honoring our Mother and model goes on, albeit, in many creative forms. Up north, in the province of Tarlac, ADMA members were in full support of the community pantry initiated by the Salesians of Don Bosco. Aptly called Hapag ni Juan, the community pantry was stationed and made available to residents near the Don Bosco School. There were also times when this was brought to nearby barangays for the benefit of more needy people. Meanwhile in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan, ADMA members worked double time. Praying of the novena to Mary Help of Christians was made twice a day - once in the morning at the Holy Family Parish where the chapter is based and once in the afternoon for the benefit of the senior ADMA members of Brgy. Sapang who are not able to go to the Parish due to the travel restrictions brought by the pandemic. It was also an opportune time for them to teach young people to pray the rosary. In Lubao, Pampanga, ADMA members who are not allowed to go out of their residence practice their Marian devotion at home. They never failed to pray the rosary and the novena either in group via online or individually. In San Ildefonso Parish Makati, as part of the feast day activities, a talk was given by former ADMA animator Fr. Nestor Impelido, SDB about the Virgin Mary in the context of 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. Angela Azarcon, ADMA aspirant from Auxilium chapter Better Living Parañaque was featured in the novena video prepared by the ADMA Primaria in Turin. And last but not the least, a fitting gift to our Mother as we celebrate her in this month is the induction of three members from Auxilium chapter to the ranks of the Association of Mary Help of Christians. Inspite of the many restrictions and precautions, a devotee of Mary cannot be prevented from celebrating her presence in the Church. The month of May will always be merry, will always be for Mary! 24
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Inspite of the many restrictions and precautions, a devotee of Mary cannot be prevented from celebrating her presence in the church. The month of May will always be merry, will always be for
Mary!
FIN-FIS NEWS
FOREVER YES
SDB Perpetual Profession Held in FIN By Cl. Jogar Villanueva, SDB Parañaque City, the Philippines, 1 May 2021–Despite the uncertainties that exist at the present, especially the worsening pandemic we experience in this country, God still calls. And a “forever yes” to God’s call injects hope into a world full of despair. The Salesians of Don Bosco, particularly the Philippines North Province (FIN), are exceptionally glad and blessed to receive the perpetual profession of seven (7) clerics from three different countries. They are Paul Aldrin Dungca, Daniel Gonzales, Nathaniel Petate, Jose Isidro Torres (FIN), Genson Banguis (FIS), David Yan Naing Aung (MYM), and Filomeno Belo (ITM). Following the call of the Lord, these Salesians professed their perpetual vows on the Memorial of St. Joseph, the Worker, on Saturday, May 1, 2021, at the Seminaryo ng Don Bosco Chapel. They took as theme “Love Yesterday, Today, and Forever (Jer. 31:3).” Though visitors were not allowed except for some confreres, the entire community gathered for the Holy Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Gerardo Martin, SDB, Provincial Superior of the Philippine North Province. In his homily, he challenged the perpetuandi to look at St. Joseph and his being a worker in relation to their living and giving witness to the evangelical counsels as they bind themselves permanently to the service of God and the Church. “Don Bosco promised us only three things: Bread, Heaven, and Work,” Fr. Provincial said, after expounding on Don Bosco’s St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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Dream of the Ten Diamonds with “work and temperance” as part of this meaningful legacy of St. John Bosco to the Congregation. After the homily, the clerics stood and were asked by Fr. Gerry to declare their readiness to dedicate themselves to God and to seek perfect charity, according to the Rule and the Constitutions of the Congregation. During the Litany of Supplication, all implored the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints, while asking God to pour out His mercy upon the brothers so that they might be forever strengthened in their religious commitment. At the profession of vows, each confrere, kneeling in front of Father Provincial, read the Formula of Profession by which he vowed to live forever the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the spirit of the Salesian Congregation. In the name of the Rector Major, Fr. Martin received them as confreres committed with perpetual vows with gestures of affection and brotherly words. God still called, and they answered yes with their lives. All these newly perpetually professed Salesians are witnesses to God’s faithfulness. They are true signs to all of us that despite all the uncertainty, despite all the pain and suffering, God has not abandoned us. God is still working among us by calling people to love and to serve, even when the cost is great.
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FIN-FIS NEWS
FIN Province Holds the
7th Don Bosco Film Festival Awarding Ceremony Makati City, the Philippines, 16 May 2021–In celebration of the 55th World Communications Day (WCD), the FIN Province recognized the winners of the 7th Don Bosco Film Festival (DBFF) Awarding Ceremony. It was held last May 15, 2021, the eve of the annual WCD. The ceremony celebrated months of tedious preparations, editing, and filming of the different entries of Bosconian filmmakers amidst the challenges in this time of the new normal. With the virtual accolade revolving around the 2021 festival theme, it was evident enough that all entries have exhibited Bosconians’ creativity in using the available media and information to create quality outputs and especially communicating God to others through the craft of filmmaking. Different from that of previous years where the awarding ceremony was either held in venues of Don Bosco Technical College of Mandaluyong or Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati, the momentous event took place through Zoom (where the participants are holed up) and Facebook (for the general public), historically making it the first in the 7 years of the DBFF to be held virtually. This invited a wide range of audiences from the public to watch the ceremony commence and moreover, show support and celebrate alongside the participants and organizers. FIN Provincial Superior, Fr. Gerry Martin, SDB, jumpstarted the ceremony with his opening remarks highlighting the celebration of the World Communication Sunday. Further explaining how the DBFF works as a means to communicate the message of the gospel of Christ, inspired by our ordinary experiences of Him in our daily lives. This was then followed by a plenary talk from Mr. Andy Gruete, a representative for Mission Studios of the Missionary Families of Christ.
Referring to the World Communication Sunday, Gruete calls attention to God “as our God of communication” and we as the present generation are fortunate to witness this communication first hand. We see God through the lenses of our cameras to which we have the mission to share this communication to others through the gift of filmmaking. Aside from the creative Bosconian film entries, Don Bosco Makati’s Boscorale and Don Bosco Tarlac’s Dream@9 choir added life to the awarding ceremony as they showcased their singing prowess in the patriotic rites and invocation, and intermission number respectively. The Usapelikula: 7th Don Bosco Film Festival (DBFF) Awarding Ceremony was an overall success. It was evident that every entry, every Bosconian, and Salesian had the initiative of communicating God to others through the gift of filmmaking. Each one had their unique approach to their craft and this night was especially dedicated to To see the winners these filmmakers. It wasn’t a of the Usapelikula: competition to begin with, but 7th Don Bosco Film rather a celebration of these Festival (DBFF) Awarding Ceremony, entries that pushed through please scan this: the despite the different challenges of this time. The main highlight of the night is the awarding ceremony. Numerous awards were handed to the nominated entries in the different categories: Music Video, One-minute Advertisement, Documentary, and Short Film. St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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Forming Future Salesians as Laudato Si Animators By Asp. Vince Pedrola DB Formation Center, Lawaan, Talisay City, The Philippines, 20 June 2021 – Laudato Si’, an encyclical letter on the care for our common home by Pope Francis, was released in 2015. It discussed the need to address contemporary environmental challenges and our response to these urgent concerns. Last June 3-5, 2021, the Aspirants, with their Formators at Don Bosco Formation Center Lawaan, Talisay City, Cebu, had an activity in response to the Holy Father’s call in Mantalongon, Dalaguete, Cebu. We stayed at Don Bosco House of Peace to clean and beautify the place. We planted plants and flowers of every kind as well as innovating to come up with simple yet colorful mini-gardens. We were able to put into practice our creativity and use of imagination in landscaping as we enthusiastically tilled the soil and adorned the area with plants. The next day, we climbed the Osmeña Peak, which was a fantastic experience for all of us. It took us roughly 4 to 5 kilometers of hiking while picking up pieces of plastic that were at the side of the road. The hike was challenging, but it was fruitful, meaningful, and an opportunity as well to bond. The whole experience allowed us to appreciate Mother Earth’s beauty and made us all realize that a simple act of cleaning up, planting, and improving the beauty and order of a place can go a long way towards preserving and maintaining our common home. The world is, without a doubt, our home, and we must keep it for the present generation and for those who will come after us.
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St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
FIN-FIS NEWS
A New Priest for FIN Province Parañaque City, the Philippines, 25 June 2021 – On the solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist on 24 June 2021, Bishop Broderick Pabillo, DD, ordained Deacon Cyril Vincent Saldana Noel, SDB into the sacred order of Presbyters in the National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians. As the youngest priest of the Salesians of Philippine North Province (FIN), Fr. Cyril chose the pericope of Jeremiah 3: 15, “Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart,” as his ordination motto. This emphasizes the importance of unity with the Great Shepherd, to not only become a mere shepherd but moreover, should be a shepherd after the heart of God. In his homily, Bishop Pabillo invited everyone to thank God for the gift of a vocation and pray for those who received it from God. In line with his motto, Fr. Cyril was reminded to be a shepherd with the heart of Jesus, the meek and humble heart. The newly ordained priest shared his humble gratitude to God after calling back to his vocation journey. All are grace, in the right time and situation God touched his heart. Fr. Cyril also realized that it is through the support of the family, friends, and confreres, he can hear and joyfully answer the call of God. The new priest is a gift from God for the Church. Let us thank God for the gift of the new priest and continue to pray for Fr. Cyril for his future ministry and joyful perseverance.
St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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“You are Salesians in the World”: World Delegates Address Salesian Cooperators Worldwide
By Br. Dominic Nguyen Duc Nam, SDB World Delegate and Sr. Lucrecia Uribe, FMA World Delegate Rome, 22 May 2021 – Dear brothers and sisters Salesian Cooperators, as a Family, we are happy to be able to celebrate together the Anniversary of our Association of Salesian Cooperators which is so dear to Don Bosco. On this occasion we, the two World Delegates, in two voices but with the same sentiments, would like to send a common greeting to each Regional Councillor, and through each of them, we want to reach out to each of the 30 000 members of the Association. Even though we have only been serving this mission for a short time, both of us could see the profound identity and acknowledge the great apostolic commitment that the Association is engaging. In fact, it is through you that the Salesian charism is more evident, more contagious, more dynamic and actual. We have identified in you some traits that are present in all the Regions: You are people rich in humanity, an element typical of St. Francis de Sales’ humanism, which helps you to have a positive outlook of yourselves, of the world and of the Church. We know well that you are trying to live to the full the art of seeing God in everything, and of contemplating it with God’s gaze. You are living your baptismal vocation with joy, bearing 30
St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
witness to an immense love for the Church, participating with joy and responsibility as true children in different parishes’ activities. Every day you have the opportunity to renew your vocation, a gift of the Spirit to participate as true disciples of Jesus, inserting yourself in temporal realities with a clear charismatic identity. You are “Salesians in the World” in accord with the original intuition of Don Bosco, who wants you to be passionate collaborators of God with our great options for Salesian mission: commitment for the well-being of the young, the family, social and political environment with Salesian Preventive System. Therefore, we invite you to carry out this apostolic mission in the Salesian spirit, in the circumstances where each of you is living. The Association was born in the month dedicated to Mary Help of Christians. She was always present in Don Bosco’s life as Teacher and Guide in finding and fulfilling God’s will. May Our Lady be your light and strength in the journey for specific responses to the pastoral and educational needs of the present time. With the Rector Major and with the whole Salesian Family, we would like to express our affection to each of you, an affection that we want to transform into humble and joyful service.
EAO-WORLD NEWS
Moved by Hope: 12th Asia-Oceania DB Past Pupils Congress
By Mr. Niel Evangelista. GEX Councilor for Asia-Oceania Asia-Oceania. 24 June 2021 – On the 151st birthday of the Past Pupils of Don Bosco Association (June 24), the 12th Asia-Oceania Regional Congress of Don Bosco Past Pupils (online) is ready. Some 150 registered members of the Congress, representing the Past Pupils from 28 countries of these two large continents will be meeting for nine hours, divided into three sessions (June 25-26) with simultaneous translation available on the YouTube channel in another six languages (Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Tetun, Thai and Vietnamese). In this way, during these two days and later on hundreds of other of our Past Pupils are able to be involved and share this valuable experience. In his Message to the 12th Asia-Oceania Congress, the Successor of Don Bosco, Fr. Ángel F. Artime shares his deep conviction enthusiastically: …’Don Bosco Past Pupils are very important in the Salesian Family. And do you know why? Because you are the arm of Don Bosco prolonged in the world–in the name of Jesus and in the style of Don Bosco, your spread his work in the world…” In this short message, the Rector Major also strongly invites all Congress participants ‘to promote the Association among young past pupils. We must all believe in the young and I encourage you to continue to believe in the young people and involve those who can join the ranks of past pupils around the world even more in beautiful initiatives carried out with
creativity, especially in Asia and Oceania….” (Full text is available on Boscolink) So, thanks to the hard work of the preparatory commission (translators, IT team, and central desk) the 12th Asia-Oceania Congress is ready. Now is a time to invite at least one of your friends–Bosconians–to join and get fresh inspiration on their life journey–as those who have received, are grateful for, and would like to share the gift of Don Bosco education far and wide! Welcome and help to join other Bosconians–Past Pupils! St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
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St. John Bosco Today | April - June 2021
