Don Bosco Philippines South Province

by: Aspirant Vince Joseph Pedrola

December 13, 2021, DBFC Lawaan – Talisay City, Cebu — Don Bosco Formation Center – Lawaan hosted the annual Advent recollection and Christmas fellowship of the Salesians of the Philippine South Province. The Salesians from the settings in Cebu were able to attend on site, while those from the neighboring islands attended via live streaming.

The event began with a recollection that was facilitated online by Fr. Anthony Nguyen SDB who is currently the parish priest of St. Margaret Mary in Brunswick North in the Archdiocese of Melbourne. He shared a reflection on the document Vocation and Formation Gift and Task of the Rector Major emeritus, Fr. Pascual Chavez. Small group sharing of the participants followed. Eucharistic adoration and Holy Mass – animated by the Aspirants – that was presided by the Provincial Vicar, Fr. Amelito Racelis, concluded the recollection.

A Christmas fellowship at lunch followed the morning session. The different representatives of the houses presented their performances, and the Aspirants presented their caroling as well. Mini games brought joyous laughter to everyone. Christmas gathering will never be complete without a hearty lunch. The different houses brought their best delicacies that was shared by everyone. The entire event ended with the usual game with the aspirants. Together, they played a few rounds of basketball game.

This occasion brings a special sentiment since this was the first time that the Salesians were able to gather since the pandemic began.