(ANS – Sliema)– To celebrate the bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco, during the four days from the 14th to the 17th of May, the relic of Don Bosco visited Malta and toured around every location in Malta where the Salesians of Don Bosco are working or have worked. The Salesians have been working with the young here in Malta since the start of the 20th century and have opened various youth centres, communities and take care of a large number of activities.

The relic first started in Isla, where it took part in a children's celebration, a procession and a holy mass in the church of St. Philip which is taken care of by a community of Salesians. The relic also visited other parishes including Had-Dingli, Luqa and St. Julian's. One of the main moments was in Qormi, where a solemn holy mass was held presided by His excellency the Archbishop of Malta under the patronage of Her excellency the President of Malta and other honorable guests. This mass was a perfect symbol of the unity of the Salesian family with the local church in Malta. 

The relic visited both Salesian youth centres in Dingli and Sliema, where a moment of prayers with the animators of each youth centre respectively, refreshed their purpose and helped to continue aligning their mission with that of Don Bosco.

The relic also had the chance of being amidst the students reached by both schools: St. Patrick's and Savio College, through a Salesian youth fest. This youth fest incorporated Don Bosco's method of teaching and lifestyle and included moments of joy as well as moments of teaching and prayers.

The animators also had an opportunity to meet the relic through an event particularly tailored for them held at Savio College. This meeting   served to energize the animators and put a more realistic touch to their voluntary work, thus putting all they do into perspective to the real Salesian mission.

The official inauguration of the Salesian chaplaincy at MCAST, with which the Salesians were entrusted earlier on this year took place in a small celebration in the presence of the relic. This opportunity will serve as a stepping stone which will allow the Salesians to reach more youths and continue fulfilling their creed to the full.

For years, the Salesians have run residential care services which have evolved during the years. Infact the latest addition is a residential structure at Dar Mamma Margherita in Sliema which was inaugurated also in the presence of the relic. This service will enable youths in Malta who are facing difficulties in their lives to find shelter where they might find none and with renewed vigor, face their problems with faith, trust and a Salesian attitude.

A profound moment in front of the relic was lived between the residents of the Correctional Facility in Corradino and the Salesian Community during a prayer service. The closeness between the residents and the relic symbolised the relationship Don Bosco had with people with similar problems.

The last day of the four-day visit was mainly spent in Gozo where after being welcomed to the island by the bishop of Gozo, the relic visited the youth centre in Rabat and was present for private prayers and after in a holy mass at Ta' Pinu National Shrine in Gharb.

Published 19/05/2015