by: Novice Matthew Espino
Ten novices were canonically accepted on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary last August 15, 2023. The acceptance rite was celebrated during the day-time prayer in the Shrine of St. John Bosco the Dreamer in Don Bosco Formation Center-Lawaan, presided by Rev. Fr. Fidel Orendain, SDB, the Provincial Superior of the Salesians of Don Bosco – Philippines South Province.
During the acceptance the novice director, Rev. Fr. Roneldo Vilbar, SDB, received each candidate who expressed their words of entrustment, with a fatherly embrace. The novices also received the crucifix, constitutions, and the journal from the hands of the Provincial Superior. A resounding round of applause from those present welcomed the new novices.
After the liturgical celebration the DBFC community shared a lunch in the Don Bosco Formation Center refectory followed by a program. During the program the novices, together with their novice director, presented a song to Our Lady entitled: “Maria Langitnong Inahan” (Mary Heavenly Mother). In gratitude to all who witnessed the rite of acceptance, the novices offered a rendition of “Shine In Me”.
