(ANS - Rome) - Yesterday, September 8, the Salesian community in Freetown, Sierra Leone, opened a new reception centre for children orphaned by the Ebola virus. In the late afternoon, just before the recitation of Vespers, the Rector Major Fr Ángel Fernández Artime communicated via Skype with the rector, Fr Jose Andrade Ubaldino, and the various members of the community to encourage and support them in this initiative.

During the conversation, Fr Fernández Artime greeted first the confreres, the lay collaborators and the children of the community, conveying the good wishes for the Feast of the Nativity of Mary.

He went on to express his closeness and that of the entire congregation to those who are committed to addressing the problems caused by the Ebola virus; a closeness that is not prompted only by curiosity or admiration towards those who carry out heroic deeds, but is motivated by the fact that they represent "the face and hands of the congregation" in that area.

The Rector Major, together with the confreres in the General House, continues to support the Salesians in the forefront dealing with the Ebola emergency, economically, but also through prayers and moral support, as they continue to help the young and the needy people in this difficult condition. "You are doing what Don Bosco himself would have done, thank you for being there and helping the young people in need."

Finally, Fr Fernández Artime recommended that, as they tirelessly take care of others, especially the young, they also ought to take care of themselves, because their well-being depends on a better service.

"Thanks again for doing the work of Don Bosco in that place, a hug to each of you," concluded the Rector Major, immediately before giving the blessing and the song in honour of Don Bosco, sung by the community of Freetown.

Posted on 09/09/2014