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In Lomé, the Salesian Family reflects on the Strenna of the Rector Major

In Lomé, the Salesian Family reflects on the Strenna of the Rector Major

The Salesian Family in Lomé gathered on Saturday, 17 January 2026, for a time of reflection on this year’s Strenna from the Rector Major, entitled “Do whatever he tells you.” The programme for the day’s meeting consisted of four main parts. The first moment was the presentation of the Strenna by Father Boris Togbe, SDB. He began by clarifying that this was not a teaching on the Strenna, but rather a sharing of his meditation on this beautiful Strenna. He focused his presentation on four points: the value of attention: a loving relationship, the need to listen, freedom of choice, and active faith. He concluded his remarks by inviting the entire Salesian family gathered there to adopt the evangelical meaning of listening, which is the sine qua non for successful pastoral action. The second part of the meeting consisted of sharing in groups, followed by a common discussion and the adoption of resolutions. The third moment was the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Father Paul Soro, SDB. The beautiful family day ended with the fraternal sharing of refreshments. The members of the Salesian Family were happy to have taken part in this moment of fraternal encounter, which contributes to the advancement of the mission.

Hundreds join annual archdiocesan Rosary procession in Monrovia

Hundreds join annual archdiocesan Rosary procession in Monrovia

Hundreds of Catholics from across the Archdiocese of Monrovia gathered in solemn devotion at the grotto of Mary Help of Christians at Our Lady of Lebanon Catholic Church for the annual Rosary procession – a seven-kilometer prayer march to the Sacred Heart Cathedral on Broad Street. The procession marked the climax of October, the Month of the Holy Rosary, a period dedicated to honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Each October, the Catholic Church commemorates the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7, instituted in gratitude for Mary’s protection over the Church and the faithful who pray the Rosary.

Throughout the month, Catholics in Monrovia joined in daily parish Rosary recitations, culminating in Sunday’s Archdiocesan procession organized by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia on the last Sunday of October – a tradition inspired by the late Archbishop Michael Kpakala Francis to foster Marian devotion among the faithful.

The vibrant procession, led by altar servers carrying the crucifix and followed by a large group of lay faithful, included members of the Mama Margaret Children’s Ministry dressed as angels, the Salesian and Archdiocesan Youth Ministries, the Legion of Mary, the Sacred Heart Confraternity, Salesian Cooperators, priests, religious sisters, missionaries, and other Catholic organizations.

With rosaries in hand, participants prayed and sang Marian hymns as they processed reverently through the principal streets of Monrovia. The beautifully adorned statue of the Madonna, mounted on a vehicle from Radio Maria Liberia, passed through the University of Liberia campus, LNP Headquarters, Capitol Bypass, Orange Liberia Technology Office, YMCA Building, and Broad Street.

Bro. Michael Luah and members of the Legion of Mary, together with Rev. Fr. Johnny Clement Kombo, provided live reflections and spiritual commentary broadcast on Radio Maria and streamed on the station’s social media platforms, allowing thousands to participate virtually.

Despite the intense heat, participants walked with reverence and joy. In a moving display of solidarity, the Knights and Ladies of Marshall, along with their Junior Order, under the leadership of Grand Knight of Council 145 Bro. Joe O. Howe, State Grand Knight Worthy Brother S. Clarence Borbordee, Noble Lady of Court 142 Sis. Veronica Harris, Deputy Noble Lady Sis. Marcella, Jr. Sis. Carmilla Davis, Jr. Sis. Keisha Tokpa, and other esteemed members of the Noble Order, distributed cold water bottles to participants along the way. This act of kindness underscored the spirit of unity and compassion that defined the day, fostering fellowship and service.

Upon arrival at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, the congregation assembled before the grotto for the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Prayer of the Faithful led by the Mama Margaret Children’s Ministry. Children dressed as angels placed a crown upon the statue of the Madonna – a touching moment that moved onlookers. The ceremony continued with the Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and concluded inside the Cathedral with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, offering a deeply spiritual close to the month long observance of the Rosary.

Rev. Fr. Johnny C. Kombo, Priest Secretary to the Archbishop of Monrovia, extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, organizers, and volunteers for their commitment and collaboration, and thanked the Knights and Ladies of Marshall for providing water to the participants.

In an interview, Rev. Fr. Martin Chea Dunham, Administrator of Sacred Heart Cathedral, reaffirmed the Archdiocese’s devotion to Mary “This annual event reminds us that Mary has always accompanied us with her loving presence. We continue to pass through Mary as our shortest route to Jesus, asking her intercession for our Church, our country, and all our communities so that peace and goodwill may prevail.”

Rev. Fr. Thomas Tran, SDB, Assistant Parish Priest of Our Lady of Lebanon Catholic Church, reflected on the event in light of the Year of Hope, calling Mary “a mother of Hope and Mercy and a powerful intercessor.” He added “Everything the Church teaches about Mary points us to Jesus Christ. As our Heavenly Mother, she continues to guide us on the path to holiness.”

The day concluded with refreshments provided by various Catholic organizations of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, reinforcing fellowship among the faithful.

The Archdiocesan Rosary Procession once again stood as a powerful testament to faith, unity, and devotion – inspiring Catholics across Liberia to remain steadfast in prayer and to live as bearers of Christ’s light in the world.

Launch of the pastoral year at Maria Auxiliadora Parish in Gbenyedzi

Launch of the pastoral year at Maria Auxiliadora Parish in Gbenyedzi

On Sunday, 16 November 2025, Maria Auxiliadora Parish launched the pastoral year. Two major events marked this day rich in symbols and colours: the Eucharistic celebration and the presentation of the various movements, associations and choirs organised in stands. The celebrations took place in the three respective communities of Gbenyedzi, Dekadjevi and Ablogame. At the beginning of the Eucharist, the celebrants presented the general objectives and main lines of the Salesian Pastoral Educational Project, a work whose origins can be traced back to the Rector Major’s Strenna, the theme of the archdiocese, which focuses on the challenges of the encounter between the Gospel and cultures and the analysis of the context of the parish. It was also during these celebrations that the new members of the Local Pastoral Councils (CPL) and Local Councils for Economic Affairs (CLAE) were presented in Gbenyedzi and Dekadjevi. Before the end of the celebration, the rite of blessing and sending forth on mission of the newly elected members of the CPL/CLAE took place. Then it was the turn of the various leaders and delegates of the movements, associations and choirs. After the Eucharist, in an atmosphere of joy and gratitude, all the groups, movements and choirs set up stands for their presentations. The priests, accompanied by the new members of the CPL and CLAE, went around to greet, encourage, exhort and bless these groups which, according to their various spiritualities, contribute to the growth of the parish.

Religious profession at the Don Rinaldi novitiate in Gbodjomé

On Saturday, 16 August 2025, at 9 a.m., the Don Rinaldi Novitiate in Gbodjomé was the setting for a major event for the Salesian Family. Sixteen novices, eight from AOS Province and eight from AON Province made their first religious profession. This solemn act marks the culmination of a year of intense Salesian formation at the novitiate and opens a new chapter in their vocational journey.

The Eucharistic celebration brought together a large crowd of faithful, several religious congregations, as well as more than 50 Salesian and other members of the Salesian family who had come for the occasion. The Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Denis SORO, Provincial of AOS, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Jésus Benoît BADJI, Provincial of AON. Ecclesial unity and communion were palpable throughout the celebration. This Mass also had a special significance: it marked the culmination of the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Don Rinaldi Novitiate in Gbodjomé. For the community, this double grace – the religious profession of 16 new confreres and the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the novitiate – was a source of great joy and profound thanksgiving.

During his homily, Fr Denis invited the newly professed to live their gift of self to God fully in simplicity, fidelity and joy, following the example of Don Bosco and so many confreres who preceded them. He also urged the faithful present to support the young religious with their prayers and fraternal closeness.

During the celebration, the Provincial welcomed the new novice master (Fr Joseph Nabo) and warmly thanked the outgoing novice master, Fr Fabrice Aziawo, who has been called to another mission in Yaoundé (Cameroon).

After Mass, the festive and fraternal atmosphere continued in the new “Père César” festival hall, which was inaugurated and blessed by the two provincials. The community, families and friends of the newly professed shared a moment of conviviality together, marked by songs, dances and expressions of joy.

This day will remain engraved in the memory of the Don Rinaldi novitiate and the entire Salesian Family as a sign of hope and vitality for Don Bosco’s mission in Africa.

Biography of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost

Prior to his election as Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. Here is the biography of the 267th Bishop of Rome.

By Vatican News

The first Augustinian Pope, Leo XIV is the second Roman Pontiff – after Pope Francis – from the Americas. Unlike Jorge Mario Bergoglio, however, the 69-year-old Robert Francis Prevost is from the northern part of the continent, though he spent many years as a missionary in Peru before being elected head of the Augustinians for two consecutive terms.

First Augustinian Pope

The new Bishop of Rome was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to Louis Marius Prevost, of French and Italian descent, and Mildred Martínez, of Spanish descent. He has two brothers, Louis Martín and John Joseph.

He spent his childhood and adolescence with his family and studied first at the Minor Seminary of the Augustinian Fathers and then at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, where in 1977 he earned a Degree in Mathematics and also studied Philosophy.

On September 1 of the same year, Prevost entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in Saint Louis, in the Province of Our Lady of Good Counsel of Chicago, and made his first profession on September 2, 1978. On August 29, 1981, he made his solemn vows.

The future Pontiff received his theological education at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. At the age of 27, he was sent by his superiors to Rome to study Canon Law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum).

In Rome, he was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982, at the Augustinian College of Saint Monica by Archbishop Jean Jadot, then pro-president of the Secretariat for Non-Christians, which later became the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and then the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue.

Prevost obtained his licentiate in 1984 and the following year, while preparing his doctoral thesis, was sent to the Augustinian mission in Chulucanas, Piura, Peru (1985–1986). In 1987, he defended his doctoral thesis on “The Role of the Local Prior in the Order of Saint Augustine” and was appointed vocation director and missions director of the Augustinian Province of “Mother of Good Counsel” in Olympia Fields, Illinois (USA).

Mission in Peru

The following year, he joined the mission in Trujillo, also in Peru, as director of the joint formation project for Augustinian candidates from the vicariates of Chulucanas, Iquitos, and Apurímac.

Over the course of eleven years, he served as prior of the community (1988–1992), formation director (1988–1998), and instructor for professed members (1992–1998), and in the Archdiocese of Trujillo as judicial vicar (1989–1998) and professor of Canon Law, Patristics, and Moral Theology at the Major Seminary “San Carlos y San Marcelo.” At the same time, he was also entrusted with the pastoral care of Our Lady Mother of the Church, later established as the parish of Saint Rita (1988–1999), in a poor suburb of the city, and was parish administrator of Our Lady of Monserrat from 1992 to 1999.

In 1999, he was elected Provincial Prior of the Augustinian Province of “Mother of Good Counsel” in Chicago, and two and a half years later, the ordinary General Chapter of the Order of Saint Augustine, elected him as Prior General, confirming him in 2007 for a second term.

In October 2013, he returned to his Augustinian Province in Chicago, serving as director of formation at the Saint Augustine Convent, first councilor, and provincial vicar—roles he held until Pope Francis appointed him on November 3, 2014, as Apostolic Administrator of the Peruvian Diocese of Chiclayo, elevating him to the episcopal dignity as Titular Bishop of Sufar.

He entered the Diocese on November 7, in the presence of Apostolic Nuncio James Patrick Green, who ordained him Bishop just over a month later, on December 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the Cathedral of Saint Mary.

His episcopal motto is “In Illo uno unum”—words pronounced by Saint Augustine in a sermon on Psalm 127 to explain that “although we Christians are many, in the one Christ we are one.”

Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru,  from 2015 to 2023

On September 26, 2015, he was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo by Pope Francis. In March 2018, he was elected second vice-president of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference, where he also served as a member of the Economic Council and president of the Commission for Culture and Education.

In 2019, Pope Francis appointed him a member of the Congregation for the Clergy (July 13, 2019), and in 2020, a member of the Congregation for Bishops (November 21). Meanwhile, on April 15, 2020, he was also appointed Apostolic Administrator of the Peruvian Diocese of Callao.

Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops

On January 30, 2023, the Pope called him to Rome as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, promoting him to the rank of Archbishop.

Created Cardinal in 2023

Pope Francis created him Cardinal in the Consistory of September 30, 2023, and assigned him the Diaconate of Saint Monica. He officially took possession of his titular church on January 28, 2024.

As head of the Dicastery, he participated in the Pope’s most recent Apostolic Journeys and in both the first and second sessions of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on synodality, held in Rome from October 4 to 29, 2023, and from October 2 to 27, 2024, respectively.

Meanwhile, on October 4, 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as a member of the Dicasteries for Evangelization (Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches), for the Doctrine of the Faith, for the Eastern Churches, for the Clergy, for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, for Culture and Education, for Legislative Texts, and of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State.

Finally, on February 6 of this year, the Argentine Pope promoted him to the Order of Bishops, granting him the title of the Suburbicarian Church of Albano.

Three days later, on February 9, he celebrated the Mass presided over by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square for the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, the second major event of the Holy Year of Hope.

During the most recent hospitalization of his predecessor at the “Gemelli” hospital, Prevost presided over the Rosary for Pope Francis’s health in Saint Peter’s Square on March 3.

Source: Vatican News

Father Fabio Attard, New Rector Major of the Salesians

The election of Fr. Fabio Attard as the 11th successor of Don Bosco marks a historic moment for the Salesian Congregation and the Salesian Family worldwide. Elected during the 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales, Fr. Fabio Attard fully embodies Don Bosco’s charism and is preparing to lead the Salesian mission dedicated to young people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable, in 136 nations. With extensive theological, pastoral, and academic experience, Fr. Attard is called to guide the Salesian Congregation toward a renewed future, bringing Don Bosco’s dream to the heart of the contemporary world.

A Journey of Faith and Formation

Born on March 23, 1959, in Gozo, Malta, Fr. Fabio Attard grew up in Victoria, where he attended public primary and secondary schools. His vocation began to take shape during his years at the Major Seminary of Gozo (1975-1978). Later, he entered the Salesian aspirantate at Savio College in Dingli, Malta, before preparing for the novitiate in Dublin. On September 8, 1980, he made his religious profession as a Salesian of Don Bosco in Maynooth, Ireland.

Fr. Attard pursued his studies with great dedication, earning a degree in Theology from the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) and a Licentiate in Moral Theology from the prestigious Accademia Alfonsiana in Rome. Ordained a priest on July 4, 1987, he embarked on a ministry deeply rooted in pastoral care and academic research.

A Missionary and Educator in the Service of the World

Fr. Attard’s missionary spirit manifested itself from the early years of his Salesian life. From 1988 to 1991, he was part of the group of Salesians who initiated the Congregation’s presence in Tunisia, in a predominantly non-Christian context, where he laid the foundations for evangelical and educational service. Returning to Malta, he assumed leadership roles as Rector of St. Patrick’s Salesian School and the Salesian Oratory, where he served from 1993 to 1996.

In 1999, Fr. Attard completed his doctoral research on the theme of conscience within the Anglican sermons of John Henry Newman at the Milltown Institute for Philosophy and Theology. Thanks to his expertise, he became part of the faculty of the Pontifical Salesian University, during which he also co-directed doctoral theses at the Alphonsian Academy and contributed to the academic formation of future theologians.

A Visionary for Youth Ministry

Fr. Attard’s role as a global leader materialized in 2008, when he was elected the General Councillor for Youth Ministry during the 26th General Chapter. Re-elected for a second term in 2014, he held this position until 2020, guiding the Salesian Congregation in its mission for and with young people.

Under his coordination, the Salesian Youth Ministry Framework (2013) was published, a foundational document offering updated guidelines for Salesian pastoral work worldwide. Fr. Attard promoted global initiatives such as the International Congress on Youth Ministry and the Family (Madrid, 2017) and coordinated activities to address issues such as marginalization, poverty, and migration.

He also strengthened missionary volunteer programs and consolidated technical and vocational education and training (TVET) through initiatives like Don Bosco Tech Africa and Don Bosco Tech ASEAN, representing the Salesians at important international forums on youth policy, migration, and youth employment in Brussels and New York.

A Bridge Between Theology and Pastoral Care

In addition to his administrative roles, Fr. Attard has always stood out as a builder of bridges between theology and pastoral care. In 2005, he founded and directed the Pastoral Formation Institute in Malta, dedicated to the training of lay people engaged in pastoral ministry. He continued to teach as a visiting professor at the Pontifical Salesian University, contributing to the intellectual and spiritual development of Salesian educators and their collaborators.

His contribution to the universal Church was recognized in 2018, when Pope Francis appointed him as a Consultant to the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life. His participation in the Synod on Young People (2018) highlighted his commitment to giving voice to young people and fostering their greater integration into the life of the Church.

A Leader for the Future of the Salesian Congregation

At the end of his term as General Councillor, Fr. Attard was tasked with coordinating Salesian and Lay Formation in Europe from 2020 to 2023. This project led to the creation of a master’s program for the formation of Salesians and lay collaborators, now managed by the Pontifical Salesian University in collaboration with the Youth Ministry Sector.

Carrying Forward Don Bosco’s Dream

As the new Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard will lead a Congregation composed of 13,750 consecrated Salesians, organized in 92 provinces and present in 136 nations. With his deep spirituality, charismatic vision, brilliant academic career, and decades of experience, he is fully prepared to animate and govern the Salesian Congregation and the Salesian Family in the 21st century.

His election represents a new dawn for the Salesian Congregation, which, under his leadership, will continue to grow as a global force for education, evangelization, and social transformation. Fr. Attard will inspire and motivate Salesians, lay collaborators, and young people worldwide to carry forward Don Bosco’s mission: to be witnesses and bearers of God’s love for young people, especially the most in need.

Under his leadership, the Salesian Congregation will continue to flourish, carrying forward Don Bosco’s dream and transforming the lives of thousands of young people worldwide. He is called to lead the second-largest religious Congregation in the world, generating hope and light for new generations.

Source: ANS

Lomé – Presentation of the Strenna 2025 to the Salesian Family

On Sunday January 26, 2025, the Salesian Post-novitiate in Lomé hosted a much-anticipated event for the Salesian Family: the presentation of the Rector Major’s Strenna on the theme “Anchored in Hope, Pilgrims with the Young”. The Strenna was presented by Sister Leslie Sandigo Ortega, General Councillor for the Salesian Family of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), to a large audience of local Salesian Family members.

This year’s Strenna calls for solid faith, joyful commitment and accompaniment of young people on their life journey, especially in sometimes difficult contexts. In a world in need of reference points and meaning, the Vicar of the Rector Major urges the Salesian family to be a beacon of hope and to walk alongside young people, as so well illustrated by the figure of Don Bosco.

Sister Ortega conveyed this message clearly and engagingly, with energy and depth. She emphasized the importance of an active faith, of being a witness to hope, and of genuinely supporting young people with respect and love. She also cited Don Bosco as an example of the need to remain close to young people, especially those facing difficulties, while maintaining hope beyond the daily challenges.

Participants were invited to reflect on their role within the Salesian Family, to participate actively in youth activities and to deepen their relationship with God in a spirit of fraternity and service.

At the end of the presentation, participants gathered for a common prayer and afterwards around a fraternal meal, a symbol of the unity and friendship that unites the Salesian Family in Lomé. This convivial moment enabled everyone to share their impressions, discuss the challenges ahead, and strengthen the bonds of unity and solidarity that characterize this great family.

The importance of this event lies not only in the presentation of the Strenna, but in the way it brought together and animated the local Salesian Family. The words of the Vicar of the Rector Major, transcribed by Sister Leslie, left a deep imprint on the hearts of the participants, encouraging them to continue their mission with hope, faith and dedication to young people. This afternoon of reflection and sharing is a wonderful illustration of the vitality and commitment of the Salesian Family of Lomé, always faithful to the spirit of Don Bosco, and ready to walk alongside young people as pilgrims of hope.

Jean Liley, sdb

Tatale – Pastoral activities in Saints Peter and Paul Parish

Four main activities marked December Pastoral activities of Catholic Mission of Saints Peter and Paul Parish Tatale (N/R Ghana).

The first program was the feast of Oratory held on Thursday, 12th December. This program involved children of the Parish and of Tatale-town (Catholic and non-Catholic) of about 400 children. It was made-up of floating with musical instruments and sporting items from the Parish to the Tatale market, the drama to display the beginning of the Salesian mission, the games such as football kick, basketball throw, the sacs raise, the pushing of soap to climb a slippery surface etc.  to display our oratory activities and so, to make known our Salesian way to carry out our mission of evangelization. The program ended successfully with the good evening talk by Father Joseph GYAMFI, the father in-charge of the Community.

The second activity was the cleaning-up of the whole Parish on 21st of December 2024 by the adolescents and the youth. This is to educate them on importance of making our place of worship, a welcoming place and to show dedication to the life of the Church.

The third activity was the celebration of the Christmas for the Children on Monday, 23rd December 2024. It brought together 313 children from both the main parish and its outstations.

The day began with the distribution of Christmas huts and an Opening Mass, presided by Rev. Father Joseph GYAMFI (Father In-charge). Father Christmas was welcomed at the ending part of the mass, featuring his special appearance and sharing of gifts to some committed children. After Mass, the children enjoyed tasty snacks and participated in a Bible recitation.

They were then divided into teams and engaged in various exciting games. Following these games, a delicious lunch was given to all, followed by some fun games. The celebration concluded with a lively choreography session, a heartfelt vote of thanks from one of the children (Duut Julliet), a good evening talk by Rev. Fr. Simon Yawo AMEKOULAPE (the Youth Director), and the distribution of gifts to all the children. The day left the children with joyful memories that they will cherish for years to come.

The fourth program is the memorable Youth Fiesta (First edition). Uniting Faith and Fun, a journey of Grace, this program sought to bring together young people for a weekend of worship, fun and socialization.

The program kicked off on the first day with a powerful worship night made up of exposition of the blessed sacrament, word ministration, moment of worship. It sought to bring the youth together to give thanks to God for the successful year 2024.

The second day was filled with games, team building exercises and socialization. Activities such as jogging through the principal streets, aerobics exercises, indoor games and socialization were carried out and they aimed at promoting a healthy bond among the youth and keeping fit for apostolate.

The thirst day of the program featured a Youth Cocktail Night complete with a talk on “Youth and Family life” by Rev. Father Simon Yawo AMEKOULAPE, good music, fun moments, dance, refreshment, and many others providing a relaxed atmosphere for over 70 participants to unwind and celebrate.

Lomé-Gbenyedzi – Maria Auxiliadora Parish celebrates the end-of-year festivities with young people and children

Children’s Christmas party

The Maria Auxiliadora parish in Gbenyedzi, in view of bringing joy to children, organized an evening party named “Miss Christmas Party” on 25 December in the parish and on 27 December in Dékadjevi, one of the outstations of the parish. Before the event, a word of welcome was addressed to guests and parishioners by the parish priest, Father Jacques NAGALO. The Christmas party is traditionally organized by the missionary children’s office in collaboration with its chaplain, Father Fritz NII EKUE. The aim of this activity, organized with the children, was to enable them to familiarize themselves with others and to experience the joy of the Savior born. After the parish priest’s words, it was time for the Miss competition, in which 12 candidates from Gbenyedzi and 9 from Dékadjévi took part. At the end of the competition, the various judges proclaimed Ametognissee Charlène as Miss Gbenyedzi and Segbe Améyo Alida as Miss Dékadjévi.

Triduum of prayer and celebration of Woezon 2025

To enhance our pastoral action and live a holy year, the Maria Auxiliadora parish of Gbenydzi organized a triduum of prayer for all the faithful. The triduum was organized around three themes, one for each day. The first day’s theme, “Increase our faith” (Luke 17:5), was led by Assumptionist Father Yves Atidepe, who urged the faithful to remain solid in their faith, which is a pillar for overcoming difficult times. The last two themes, “Abide in me” (John 15:17) and “Love one another” (John 13:34), were led by Father Marie Athanase Attignon, parish priest of Sagbado Agotsimé. He strongly encouraged the faithful to commit themselves to making activities more visible, and to loving one another as Christ has loved us.

Along the same line, the youth coordination, in agreement with its chaplain, Father Raoul Agbeninou, organized a New Year’s Eve party on 31 December called Woezon 2025, after mass. The event took place in the three outstations of the parish: Ablogame, Dékadjevia, and Gbenyedzi. After the mass, various food and drink stands were set up in the courtyard of each of the three parish outstations. These stands were manned by various youth groups and movements. The aim of Woezon 2025 was to enable the faithful to safely celebrate the coming of the year 2025 as a Christian family, in an atmosphere of prayer.

Celebration of the Epiphany of the Lord

In the spirit of Christmas festivities, the missionary children’s office of the Maria Auxiliadora parish of Gbenyedzi gathered the children of the parish for the Epiphany celebration on Sunday 5th January 2025. The day before, a float was organized with the children from all over the parish, accompanied by the brass band. The float began in Ablogame and ended in Gbenyedzi. On the feast day, there was a eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Fritz Nii Ekue, chaplain of the Missionary Childhood. In his homily, Fr. Fritz Nii Ekue invited the children to the gift of service, which must be practiced with love. He also explained to the children the meaning of the Solemnity of the Epiphany, which is the manifestation of Christ in our humanity. From this manifestation emerge the simplicity and humility of Christ; values that the children are all invited to adopt in their lives. After the mass, it was the time for games and performances. This great activity aimed to enable the children to live as a family while seeking to consolidate their bonds of friendship. This rich experience ended with the sharing of a fraternal meal.

Ashaiman – First meeting of Rectors in the Province of Southern West Africa

The first meeting of Rectors in the Salesian Province of South West Africa (AOS) was held from 13 to 17 January. Coming from all the communities and presences of the five countries of the Province, the Rectors of the Salesian communities met with Fr Soro Kolotcholoma Denis, AOS Provincial, and with the Provincial Council at the Provincial House in Ashaiman. The discussions focused on community animation, Youth Ministry, Formation, Economy, the Salesian Family and Social Communication. Moments of group reflection followed the moments of communication from speakers, including the presence of the Salesian Brother Günter Mayer, former Provincial Economer of the former AFW Province. This first meeting of Rectors helps to consolidate the bonds of fraternity between the Salesians coming from different circumstances, but who are now called to journey together. The meeting ended with a moment of fraternal sharing also involving the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Ashaiman.

Tatale – Commissioning of Roman Catholic Kendagartin & Primary School Mechanised Borehole

As part of its development work with disadvantaged groups, the AOS Provincial Development Organism (PDO) has built a mechanised borehole with the support of AURA and Misiones Salesianas NGO (JyD). This project will give the local population of 12,600, mainly pupils at Tatale Catholic School, access to drinking water. The borehole was commissioned in November 2024 for the well-being of our beneficiaries.

The Provincial Development Organism (PDO) is the structure of the Salesian AOS Province responsible for planning, managing and implementing projects to improve the living conditions of the people to whom the Salesians are sent. We welcome your donations to help us achieve this noble mission. To make a donation, please click on this link.

TVET committee visits Don Bosco training institute

On Monday, October 14, TVET’s visit to Ghana at the Don Bosco training institute took place. This team was made up of several members of the Salesian family and other bodies in the field of technology. The objective of this visit was to visit the different areas of learning of the Don Bosco training institute. They arrived around 2 p.m. and visited five (5) departments, namely Mechanics, Electricity, Cosmetics and Hairdressing, Solar and Cooking and Hospitality. In these different departments, the students developed some demonstrations to show the quality of learning at Don Bosco training institute with the assistance of their teachers.

Novitiate Gbbodjomé – A Month of Retreat, Fraternity and Celebration

From September 30 to October 4, the novices had their spiritual retreat on the theme “The novitiate is a path of trust following Christ”. This theme, developed by Fr. Fabrice, the Novices Master, enabled them to reflect and meditate on their commitment to the consecrated life, strengthening their vocation and their trust in God.

On October 12, the Novitiate community joined with young people to celebrate Girl’s International Day. The lecture on girl’s international day was given by Imelda SAVI, (visual artist and sculptor) followed by performances and sketches organized by girls, under the supervision of the youth ministry coordinator. The event raised awareness and highlighted the importance of girls’ place in society.

On October 25, the Novitiate community was at “Maison Don Bosco” in Akodessewa (Lomé) to celebrate the feast of Don Rua. This fraternal day was marked by football, volleyball and basketball matches between the post-novices and novices, creating a climate of fraternity. The celebration was extended to the Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Paulin KOLANI with several concelebrants, followed by performances and a fraternal dinner.

Finally, a mini camp was organized for aspirants from October 29 to 30 in the Novitiate community. Fr. Fabrice, in charge of the aspirants, and Br. Emmanuel, the assistant of the novices, led the themes of that camp, offering the aspirants an experience of spiritual deepening and sharing.

October was a month of communion and vocation-building for novices and aspirants, marked by prayer, fraternity and commitment.

SMART STEP TRANSNATIONAL MEETING & TRAINING IN VALENCIA, SPAIN

SMART STEP TRANSNATIONAL MEETING & TRAINING WAS HELD IN UNIVERSITAT POLITECNICA DE VALENCIA, SPAIN (BETWEEN 21ST MAY TO 23RD MAY 2024).

 

The following were the key activities during for Transnational Meeting & Training in Valencia.

 

  • Work Based Learning Programme: partners explored how to integrate these programmes into existing networks and engaged in working sessions on stakeholder engagement.
  • Training on the Contents of WP5: Development of Capacity Building in VET programmes in entrepreneurship for the teachers of the VET Centres that will implement these courses in the schools of Ghana and Cameroon.
  • Startup Incubators Training: this included insights on accelerator programmes and mentoring entrepreneurial teams.

 

Partners:

  • Asociacion Mundus, Spain
  • Don Bosco Youth Network (AOS Province);
  • Startup SME Centres Limited (SSC)
  • Universitat Politecnica de Valencia, Spain (UPV)
  • Confederation Europeenne des Association de petite (CEA-PME)
  • International Voluntary Service (VIS)
  • Institute de Technologie de L’Industrie, du Management et de l’entrepreneuriat (INTIME)
  • Complexe scolaire et professionnel Catholique Don Bosco, Cameroon.
  • Don Bosco Mimboman, Cameroon
  • Prototipi Limited

SMART-STEP NEWSLETTER- 3RD EDITION

SMART STEP NEWSLETTER -1ST EDITION

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS

Prayer to Mary Help of Christians composed by St. John Bosco

O Mary, most powerful Virgin,
great and illustrious defender of the Church,
wonderful Help of Christians, formidable as an army in battle array,
you who have overcome every heresy in the world,
in our anguish, in our combats, in our difficulties,
defend us from the Enemy, and at the hour of our death
receive our souls into Paradise.  Amen.

Closing of the 2nd Provincial Chapter of AOS

The 2nd Provincial Chapter of the Salesians of Don Bosco of the AOS came to a close on Sunday April 21, 2024 at the Centre de Spiritualité Capucins brothers in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire). This 7th and final day of the Provincial Chapter was first marked by a time of exchange on some practical issues concerning the life of the Province. Then, in his closing address, the Provincial, Father Denis Soro, thanked the confreres, particularly those who had helped organize the Provincial Chapter. He urged the confreres to take into account the newness of the AOS Province to instill a new dynamism and offer new paths of sanctification to young people. The closing Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Provincial himself, with the participation of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and some members of the Parish Pastoral Council of the Salesian parish of Saint Francis of Assisi in Abidjan.

 

2nd Provincial Chapter – Day 6

On Saturday 20 April, after several days of work, the members of the Chapter went to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro for a pilgrimage. The Mass celebrated at the Basilica on the altar dedicated to Saint Joseph the Worker was presided over by Father Chukwuedi Akubueze, Vice Provincial. The members of the Chapter then visited this holy place, which remains an architectural jewel that amazes all visitors.

AOS PROVINCIAL CHAPTER – DAY 5

On Friday 19 April, the 5th day of the 2nd Provincial Chapter of the Salesians of the AOS Province, the members of the Provincial Chapter II proceeded to validate the chapter documents by voting. In the afternoon, the members of the Provincial Chapter chose by election the Province Delegate for the General Chapter and his substitutes. Father Didier Eklou, moderator of the provincial chapter , was chosen by his confreres as the province delegate.

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