Thai Binh is 100km distance from the capital, Hanoi. The Thai Binh Youth Day focused on the Vietnam Bishop's Conference theme of 2017 'The Family', as well on the Strenna of the Rector Major for 2017 'We are a Family'. About 4000 youth and youth ministry leaders (religious and priests) attended the rich event made of workshops, a youth festival with song, dances, Bible drama (Wedding in Cana), talks and dialogue with the Vietnamese provincial Fr. Joseph Quang and Fr. Angel F. Artime - the Rector Major. In the evening there was Eucharistic adoration and Reconciliation (with 50 priests available). The whole event ended with the Sunday Eucharist, the procession of Don Bosco Statue and a great meal for all 4000 participants (500 tables) served by the 140 seminarians of Thai Binh diocese.
In two lively interactions between the Rector Major and the young people of Thai Binh and Salesian Youth coming from all North Vietnam communities (SDB, FMA, VDB, Salesian Cooperators and Youngsters) the main theme was a strong invitation to discover the dream of God for each one of them - either for marriage, for consecrated life, missionary commitment or priestly vocation. The successor of Don Bosco challenged all to grow in generosity and self-giving for the good and bright future of their country and the whole Catholic community.
The very youthful, dynamic environment had a deep impact on the Rector Major, who appreciated their willingness to be excited in joyful celebration and then be deeply involved in the deep silence in front the Eucharist - Jesus living amongst us. The whole large compound of Thai Binh diocesan centre - cathedral, football field open to the public and large pastoral centre was a wonderful venue to share the spirit and education of Don Bosco. All 4000 participants were accommodated there. Thanks to the hard work and long term vision of Bishop Peter De, SDB - this diocese is sharing a gift of Don Bosco through the presence of the Salesian Family and Preventive system of Don Bosco shared in the parish communities and families.
Thanks to the pastoral charity of our Saint, the Friend and Teacher of the Youth! Let us witness with our lives Jesus the Good Shepherd with the young generation! Thai Binh diocese has 108 parishes and 160.000 Catholics in the mostly rural population of 3.2 million of mostly non-Christian brothers and sisters It has been blessed with many vocations and strong missionary spirit!
Thai Binh is the last stop of the visit of the 10th successor of Don Bosco to Vietnam. Before his departure for the South Asia Team Visit in Chennai, India Fr. Angel will still meet the Salesian Family and Salesian confreres of the Northern Vietnam region.
