The annual autumn retreat for the Hungarian Province, held from 20-25 October 2024, focused on the theme "Being Don Bosco for Today's Youth." This week-long spiritual retreat was led by no less than the ninth successor of Don Bosco, Fr Pascual Chavez, who has a deep connection with the Hungarian Province.
The retreat, held at the serene Péliföldszentkereszt Retreat Centre, offered participants a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal and reflection. The daily schedule included morning prayer, followed by insightful meditations led by Fr Chávez. The Holy Mass, celebrated by Hungarian Salesian priests, was enriched by homilies delivered by the esteemed retreat director.
The meditations delved into a variety of profound themes, including: The Experience of God; The Salesian Charism; Evangelisation; Don Bosco's Dream at Nine Years of age; Jesus, the Good Shepherd; Fraternal Life; Listening to the Word of God; Evangelical Counsels; Consecrated Life; The Salesian in the Dream of the Ten Diamonds; The Magnificat: A Hopeful Vision.
In addition to the formal program, participants were invited to engage in various pious practices such as the Way of the Cross, the Via Lucis, adoration, and the rosary. These optional activities provided further opportunities for personal prayer and reflection.
This year's retreat marked a historic moment for the Hungarian Province, as it was the first time a successor of Don Bosco himself had led a retreat for the community. Fr Chávez's presence and guidance were invaluable in inspiring participants to deepen their commitment to the Salesian mission and to live out Don Bosco's legacy in today's world.
On 26 October 2024, the 110th birth anniversary of Blessed Stephen Sándor, the Hungarian Salesian Family gathered to commemorate this significant milestone. The event was graced by the presence of Fr Pascual Chávez Villanueva, the ninth successor of Don Bosco.
A solemn Holy Mass, celebrated at the Chapel of Mary Help of Christians in Óbuda, marked the beginning of the day. Presiding over the Mass, Father Pascual Chavez delivered a profound homily, emphasising the interconnectedness of human life with the divine plan. He highlighted the importance of discerning one's purpose through God's guidance and living a life rooted in love.
The festivities continued at the Don Bosco Community Centre where Father Chávez delved into the growth and mission of the Salesian Family. He underscored the importance of nurturing young people's vocations and empowering them to live fulfilling lives. Additionally, he introduced a new and third charter emphasising the charismatic identity of the Salesian Family and its commitment to spiritual growth, education, and evangelisation.
The day concluded with a poignant commemoration of Blessed Stephen Sándor at the Clarisseum. Attendees prayed, sang hymns, and listened to reflections from esteemed Salesian leaders. The event culminated with the recitation of the Stephen Sándor prayer chain and a communal reflection on his life and legacy.
As one social media post aptly summarized, "There is no finer birthday gift than this!" The Hungarian Salesian Family, inspired by the life and martyrdom of Blessed Stephen Sándor, continues to carry forward his legacy of faith, hope, and love.
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/22621-hungary-a-week-to-recharge-in-the-salesian-charism#sigProId25e826857d
