(ANS – Jakarta) – The 8th EAO Salesian Brothers Congress has officially commenced, hosted by the Salesian Province of Indonesia (INA) at the Puspas Samadi pastoral center in Klender, East Jakarta. This year’s theme, “Living Don Bosco’s Dream for the Young of Today in the Footsteps of St. Artemides Zatti, Venerable Simon Srugi, and Blessed Steven Sandor,” reflects the congress’s focus on deepening the vocation of Salesian Brotherhood and sharing best practices across provinces.
Held every six years, the EAO Brothers Congress gathers Salesian Brothers from across the region to exchange experiences and address contemporary challenges. This year’s event has drawn over a hundred Salesian Brothers, along with some Salesian priests from all Salesian Provinces in the region and representatives from the Central Council. Fr. Nguyen Thinh Phuoc Joseph, SDB, the Regional of EAO, welcomed the participants and conveyed the Rector Major’s message of support and prayers for the success of the congress.
The morning session featured a keynote address by Bro. Jean Paul Muller, SDB, the General Economer of the congregation. Bro. Muller emphasized the importance of returning to Don Bosco’s vision for Salesian Brothers, highlighting the need to be evangelizers and role models for the young. He underscored that a Salesian Brother should be dependent on God, establish meaningful relationships, and live a life of community marked by prayer and work. He stressed that Salesian Brothers should not be solitary figures but should actively engage in communal life and care for one another.
Bro. Muller also discussed the relevance of the Preventive System, noting its enduring power to transform challenges and foster hope among young people. He acknowledged that while loving others makes one vulnerable to failure, the example set by the Holy Salesian Brothers encourages perseverance and courage.
In the afternoon, provinces presented evaluations of the resolutions from the 7th congress held in Vietnam. Following a brief break, participants enjoyed a cultural experience, learning to play the Angklung, a traditional bamboo musical instrument, under the guidance of an instructor who teaches special children.
The evening included a cultural presentation where provinces showcased aspects of their countries’ heritage. The day concluded with the rosary and night prayers, after which participants returned to their accommodations, ready for the next day’s activities.
