The global image of the day is a puzzle composed of different people: men, women, young people, the elderly, the laity, consecrated persons... In this way, it visually represents the concept for which everyone can contribute according to their condition and culture: the many ethnic groups that enrich the world allow one to discover and appreciate the beauty of diversity and learn to listen. All this allows us to create something new that flourishes precisely in dialogue. The fundamental aspect of dialogue, even before speaking, is being there, the Salesian sacrament of presence: being present with enthusiasm and making oneself available to the other.
That is why, from 1 October to 29 November, the Salesian Mission Day in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Province of Ecuador (ECU) will be accompanied by the Solidarity Campaign "Like Don Bosco: missionaries of hope". The entire Salesian Family and the friends of Don Bosco in Ecuador are invited to participate in this activity of solidarity.
This campaign is an integral response to the challenges of the current context and an opportunity for all those who attend and live in Salesian centres – from parishes to shrines, from social works to educational centres and oratories – to also be missionaries of hope through their solidarity. The goal is to raise 120,000 dollars that will go to support projects for the indigenous Shuar and Achuar communities in the Amazon and the most needy popular groups of the Sierra and Coast territories.
The projects that will benefit from the campaign are:
– the Shuar and Achuar Pastoral Animation Centre of the Sevilla Don Bosco Work in Macas;
– the missionary house in Salinas de Guaranda, with maintenance activities;
– vocational training for young Shuar in Bomboiza.
– the Pinardi house in Bastión Popular, near Guayaquil, with assistance for children and young people in vulnerable situations.
"When you help, you create bridges of solidarity that allow the beneficiaries of our communities and our works equal access to opportunities and resources" the ECU people in charge say. Missionary work in Ecuador has been a living testimony of our vocation and preferential option for the poorest, and now more than ever we need committed allies to join the campaign."
The organisers hope that this day will not only inspire actions of solidarity and raise funds, but also reaffirm the legacy of Don Bosco in the promotion of integral education and in the accompaniment of children and young people, especially those most at risk of social exclusion.
All animation materials can be downloaded here.
Fernanda Vasco,
ECU Communications Office
Source: Salesians Ecuador
