| Austria – A journey into the heart, via Syria |
| Austria – Celebration at the Salesianum in Vienna |
| Austria – The Salesian Family praying for vocations |
1200 pilgrims took part in the Mass at which two Salesian Bishops presided: Archbishop Alois Kothgasser of Salzburg, and Bishop Ludwig Schwarz of Linz. The theme of the pilgrimage was “With hearts in heaven.”
In his homily Archbishop Kothgasser described the secret of Don Bosco’s vocation: “Life with God as the source of his love, his gaze fixed on Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, trust in Mary the Mother of God.” He then pointed out how even nowadays many children and young people are neglected, ill-treated and exploited.
Bishop Ludwig Schwarz, with Fr Rudolf Osanger and Sr. Maria Maxwald, respectively the superiors of the Salesians and of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Austria spoke about the mission and the inheritance of Don Bosco remarking that the current situation is not the easiest from the religious, social, political and economic points of view and how Don Bosco had been able to adapt his educational method to the circumstances of his time.
On the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Salesian Congregation, the Austrian Salesian Family is committed to working for young people who do not yet know God and to strengthening the family. Many lay volunteers are working with the Salesians and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.
The pilgrimage had the benefit of the presence of the “Don Bosco for you(th)”, who put on a show on Saturday evening 13 June. Recalling Don Bosco, who always encouraged the youngest ones, the youngsters taking part demonstrated their own talents in drama, dance, music, and song.
Published 16/06/2009
