NEWS PHOTOS
Suva, Fiji Islands – October 2024 – Viti-Bosco, a vibrant and dynamic youth gathering that brought together many young people for a weekend full of faith and fun, took place from 4 to 6 October, under the theme: "Anchored in hope: pilgrims with young people". The event took place in a reflective tone, guiding the participants through a series of activities aimed at inspiring and strengthening their spirit. The meeting began with a prayer focused on Creation, and then continued with group work, promoting the bond and sharing of personal experiences. During Viti-Bosco there were playful moments which strengthened friendships and brought joy to the participants, and informative moments, such as the meeting with the police, to discuss the serious problem of drug abuse among young people. Those present also prayed the Rosary and listened, in the evening, to the good nights During the days, ample space was then given to the talents of young people who performed in creative presentations that had Creation as the theme. The last day of Viti-Bosco began with Eucharistic adoration, which allowed the participants to reflect on their experiences and deepen their spiritual bond. The Mass was followed, celebrated by Fr Tuia Afoa and assisted by Deacon Peter Vu, who offered a moment of unity and gratitude. The gathering ended with lunch and other games, to celebrate the friendships made and the lessons learned during this weekend. Viti-Bosco is not just an event, but a journey of faith, growth and companionship, which will leave a lasting imprint on all who participated in it.
Piła, Poland – September 2024 - The Salesian Province in Piła, Poland (PLN), organised the Boski Festiwal Lite at the end of September, thus inaugurating the new formation year for the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM), which will focus on the theme "Mission of Hope". During the event, those present were able to participate in moments of prayer, a penitential liturgy, workshops, integration activities and round tables on specific topics. Salesian Games, concerts and meetings concerning vocation and married life were also organised. The festival ended with a community Eucharistic celebration, during which the importance of the witness of faith and hope for the new formation year was stressed.
Gambella, Ethiopia – October 2024 – As part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the Salesians in Ethiopia (1975-2025), Don Bosco Gambella, belonging to the Africa Ethiopia Eritrea Vice-Province (AET), organised the start of the football competitions of the Jubilee Premier League - Don Bosco Gambella on Sunday 13 October. Various NGOs and government organisations in the city were invited to participate in the tournament and 12 teams signed up for the event. The opening match was between two of the city's leading NGOs, World Vision and ZOA and the launch ceremony was presided over by the President of the regional state of Gambella, Ms Alamitu Omod, and the Vice-President, Dr Gatlwak Ron. In her opening address, the President praised the Salesian presence in the region and recalled the contributions of the Catholic Church in Ethiopia. The event was attended by more than a thousand young people. The championship matches will continue for almost three months, ending near the feast of Don Bosco, next January. The event brought great enthusiasm to the city, thanks to the wide coverage on local media and social networks. On the occasion of the Jubilee Year, a small shrub was also planted and the President then visited the Salesian work.
Krakow, Poland – October 2024 – The first meeting of the volunteers of the Salesian Missionary Volunteering “Młodzi Światu” (SWM) took place on October 7. The event began with Mass during which everyone prayed for the volunteers and missionaries. Then, the participants moved to the Park “Villages of the World”, where an executive meeting was held regarding the current and future functioning of the SWM. Besides various speeches and sharing of experiences, there was also a moement for music, snacks and lively family atmosphere.