In the capital, Italian cooperation built a school shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall: now it is entrusted to Salesian Fr Michal Wocial, a Polish missionary, in the city that sees the strongest presence in Ukraine of his countrymen. “Enjoy life and discover the world” was the guiding theme of two sessions of the “Happy holidays” school camp which took place in July. An encouraging motto that goes against the current during the present pause in intense bombardments
The Vsesvit (which means “universe”) primary and high school premises were transformed into a centre of regeneration through sport, dialogue and regular food. The teachers, together with the Salesians and volunteers, also began construction of play facilities, opening, among other things, a new children's park in the high school area. It contains various activities that have become the most popular entertainment venue not only for the students of the school but also for youngsters in the neighbourhood.
International solidarity, promoted and collected by Missioni Don Bosco, the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, has given support to the initiative, support which has been important for the construction of peace and for phase that comes afterwards, when today's children and young people will be called to rebuild the social fabric torn apart by bombs and rockets.
“There is still a lot of work, but you can already imagine interesting and useful changes for the lives of young people” Fr Wocial testifies. There were moments of fear of bombardments announced by the sirens, but the school shelter is ordinarily capable of containing the students and was therefore also used on this occasion.
The commitment of those who are concerned and occupied with the defence of “normality” even in the midst of war is the human capital that will build relationships once the rule of madness is over.
For more information, visit: www.missionidonbosco.org
