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Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard Urges Youth to Pursue Education and Service During Jubilee Celebrations in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka

Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard Urges Youth to Pursue Education and Service During Jubilee Celebrations in Sri Lanka

News reported by: Fr Sebastin SDB, Sri Lanka

The Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Fr. Fabio Attard, visited Don Bosco Negombo to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Salesian presence in Sri Lanka and the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians.

A solemn Holy Mass marked the jubilee celebrations presided over by the Rector Major in the presence of Salesian priests, diocesan clergy, Salesian Sisters, youth, ADMA members, Salesian parents, benefactors, past pupils, and a large gathering of faithful. The shrine was filled with devotees and well-wishers who came together to celebrate the historic milestones.

In his homily, Fr. Attard reflected on the life and mission of John Bosco, recalling how Don Bosco emerged from humble, poor beginnings to become a holy priest committed to the care and education of poor and abandoned youth. He stressed the importance of education and personal formation, encouraging young people to dedicate themselves to study and become responsible citizens who serve society and help those in need.

As part of the celebrations, the Rector Major distributed certificates to students of Don Bosco Negombo who completed vocational training programmes and obtained National Vocational Qualification certificates and Don Bosco Technical School certificates.

A lively 45-minute question-and-answer session with the youth followed the ceremony. The interaction proved both inspiring and deeply engaging, with many participants expressing that they felt the spirit and presence of a living Don Bosco through the Rector Major's words and encouragement.

Later, Fr. Attard met with various branches of the Salesian Family, including the Salesian Sisters, ADMA members, Salesian Cooperators, Salesian parents, benefactors, former pupils, and staff members from various Salesian institutions. Addressing the gathering, he shared reflections on Don Bosco’s vision for the Salesian Family and encouraged all members to remain united in their mission of serving young people. The meeting also included an interactive dialogue session featuring questions and responses.

In the evening, the Rector Major visited the Salesian Post-novitiate in Ahungalla, where the community warmly welcomed him. Oratory children greeted him with traditional dances, while the Rector of the community, Fr. Anthony Fernando, delivered the welcome address.

During the visit, Fr. Attard blessed and inaugurated a newly erected statue of Mary, Our Mother, in the community garden. The occasion continued with cultural performances presented by the children, after which the Rector Major addressed parents and children with a brief but meaningful message.

The Post-novitiate brothers animated the programme with a welcome song dedicated to the Rector Major. He later met the Salesians of the community, offering words of encouragement and participating in an open question-and-answer session with the confreres.

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