More than 40 people attended this ceremony. After Mass the faithful organized a concert and reception in Mongolian “Ger” (house). Fr Paul Leung, newly appointed Delegate of Mongolia, addressed the people saying that he would give full support to the mission in Shovoo.
This new foundation of the Salesians is a mission centre which was run by the bishop himself for the past 15 years. The bishop wanted to entrust this mission to a religious congregation but due to lack of personnel and resources no one was able to take it up.
This year the Mongolian mission has been blessed with three missionaries who finished their studies and other tasks and are back to Mongolia. With the arrival of these missionaries the process of expansion and development continues in Mongolia.
Shovoo, which means “bird”, is a village 40 kilometers away from Ulaanbaatar. It has around 60 Catholics and there are many children and youth. It is surrounded by hills and rivers and rich pasture land. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people.
To pioneer the mission of Shovoo, Fr Andrew Nguyen Tin, the former Delegate, and Fr Mario Gasper, have been assigned by the province of Vietnam-Mongolia. The Delegate of Mongolia wishes them success and perseverance and assures them of prayers and support.
