Was it your first visit to the AFC Province? Why did you choose the Salesian works of the eastern part as your first stop?
Yes, it was my first visit to this precious Province of the AFC, located in this beautiful country, the Democratic Republic of Congo. My visit constitutes the Rector Major's response to the request of the AFC Provincial. I spent the first week, from 8 to 14 November 2021, in the eastern part, and the following week with the other communities of the Province. In 2022, other councilors of the Rector Major will visit the Province and in 2023, the Rector Major shall come here in person. My visit is part of the accompaniment of the mission of the Provincial and his Council on behalf of the Rector Major and the General Council.
What impressions did you have of the Salesian Presences of the AFC-EST: Ngangi, ITIG, Boscolac, Bukavu and Nyakadaka?
I felt the strong involvement of all my confreres in the mission with the poor in general and with young people in particular. This is an extremely commendable pastoral work that has been going on for 40 years. I discovered that the Salesian charism is deeply rooted in the lives of the people of Goma and the Diocese of Goma in particular, and throughout the Kivu region. The work carried out in all our presences in this region is a source of blessing for the Delegation, the Province, and the whole Congregation.
Your visit comes 40 years after the beginning of Salesian activities in the region. What message did the Rector Major consign to you?
His was an encouraging message to the confreres. He thanked them for their work, for their fidelity to God, to the Church and to the Salesian charism. The hope is that the past 40 years will be the solid basis for the next 40 years of the Salesians in this region.
40 years! A time of maturity! How do you see the future in this region?
This region is entitled to a great future, contrary to the dark images that characterize it today (a region of wars, internal armed conflicts, poverty and insecurity, volcanic eruptions ...)
This region has a bright and promising future. Listening to young people, visiting our houses, I am convinced that Goma is full of potential and opportunities for young people. This is why the presence of the Salesians of Don Bosco is so necessary and important. For example, with regard to ITIG -the presence of a highly renowned school in the region like this is a great force, an energy for the vocational training of young people, for human promotion, for a future of development for the city.
What did your two Assembly of Confreres from the AFC-EST Delegation focus on?
It was about visiting the confreres. And to visit means to listen! My confreres have shared their sensitivities, experiences, possibilities and problems with me. This listening gave me more insight into the realities of life here.
What is your message to the Salesians, collaborators, and young people?
To the Salesians and to all the members of the Salesian Family I say that they will always remain in my heart. Thank you for having welcomed the Salesian presence and the Salesian charism. This part of the Province of the AFC Province is full of opportunities for a harmonious future for the Congregation, the young people, and the entire country. May your courage, God's strength and trust in the Virgin Mary bear fruit in your mission and apostolate.
And to the young people: thank you also for this wonderful week spent together!
