Thailand - Seminar for Salesian practical trainees
Bangkok, Thailand - January 2025 - From 22 to 24 January, the Salesian Province of Thailand (THA) Formation Commission, led by Fr Aaron Alcoseba, together with Fr Roel Soto and Fr Gerard Gigi Ravasco, organised the annual formation seminar at the Don Bosco Home, Krungthep Kreetha. The seminar was attended by seven Salesians who are in practical training and assigned to various Salesian communities in Thailand, Cambodia and Laos. Each day, the presenters offered formation both in the form of lectures and interspersed with activities on topics such as trust, listening, walking and empowerment. These were important to grow in maturity to be effective agents among the youth and to work with others. In the evening, the brothers practised listening to God's voice through silence and controlled breathing. On 24 January, the Salesians attending the seminar made a pilgrimage to the birthplace of Salesian works in Thailand: the Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady, in Bangnokkhuek, the newly erected Pasotti House for Spiritual Renewal’of the SIHM. They also visited the Cordis Jesu Seminary, the former formation house of the Ratchaburi diocese, where the first Salesian missionaries began their apostolic work. Fr Boonlert Paneetatthayasai, THA Provincial, presided at the Mass in the former chapel. The seminar energised each participant and provided an opportunity to reflect on their own experiences of Salesian mission in the various communities to which they belong.