The Nordestão is a joined initiative of the Salesians and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), supported by the entire Salesian Network of Brazil.
The hosting centres are the three Salesian schools of the town - Sagrado Coração, Auxiliadora and Madre Mazzarello - together with some other partner organizations. Altogether 15 schools of the Salesian Network of Schools of the Region (RSE) are taking part. The ‘Centro Educativo Don Bosco’, a Salesian social centre located in Gramoré, is present as well.
The opening ceremony took place on the 27th June at the Salesian Basilica of the Sacred Heart, with the Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr Nivaldo Pessinatti, Provincial of Recife Province, with all the Rectors of the schools attending. Immediately after the Mass two videos have been shown, through which the Rector Major Fr Ángel Fernández Artime and the Mother General Yvonne Reungoat respectively sent their encouraging message and good wishes for the event. The ceremony ended welcoming in the national and the township flags, followed by the singing of the national anthem and the lighting up of the fire, which symbolizes the Olympic spirit.
From the following morning sport competitions begun: handball, basketball, five-a-side football, volleyball, beach volleyball, chess, rhythmic gymnastics, judo, badminton and cultural marathon.
On Thursday 30th June, during the afternoon, a special event took place: the ‘Patio Culturale’ – the cultural playground – inspired by Salesian pedagogy. It was a moment of fellowship, joy, cultural sharing among the participants, with opportunities to know better cultures and specific traits of the 8 cities and 5 states where the 16 Centres taking part are located.
Other news, photos and videos of the event are available on the website and the Facebook page specifically dedicated to Nordestão.
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/1281-brazil-nordestao-the-olympic-games-of-the-salesian-schools#sigProId237b6e138e
