By: Andres Neria
Salesian Communications & Media Coordinator
(Guadalajara, Mexico) – During Holy Mass on Saturday, August 6th Bro. Jhoni Chamorro, SDB, made his final vows at the hands of Fr. Mel Trinidad, SDB, provincial of the western United States (SUO). Originally from the SUO province, Bro. Jhoni has been studying theology at the Salesian Institute in Guadalajara, Mexico for the past two years.
Fr. Mel Trinidad remarked during his homily, “We thank God for Jhoni’s Salesian vocation because we all know that the Salesian Society was initiated by the grace of God and that each and every one of our calls to consecrated life comes from God.” Speaking directly to Bro. Jhoni, the provincial said, “I know that you yourself have made sacrifices over the years, especially with being away from your mother and your family and with being away from your home province of the United States West…but also remember that you continue to be blessed in the presence of the young people here in Guadalajara, to whom you have been sent. It is for them that you do your best to study and to work.”
In an interview with Bro. Jhoni Chamorro, he shared, “I would describe the process as needing perseverance because even through the ups and downs I am always listening to God—telling me that I should not have fear.” He continued, “I have dreamt of becoming a Salesian since the first day I prayed in front of the relics of Don Bosco at Saints Peter and Paul Church in 2010… I want to be a Salesian forever by giving all my strength to continue to serve the young people.”
In attendance during the Perpetual Profession Mass were some of the young people who had the opportunity to get to know and work with Bro. Jhoni. Speaking to the young people, Fr. Mel challenged each of them, “What will make this day even more special… that some of you, young people, will also say yes to God’s call to service and ministry in the Church.” To reiterate his message of ‘thanksgiving’ Fr. Mel concluded his homily by thanking Bro. Jhoni for saying “yes” daily to his Salesian vocation.
Fr. Tim Ploch, SDB, former Interamerica Regional (from the East Province) and Fr. Chinh Nguyen, SDB served as official Salesian witnesses for Bro. Jhoni. Also present were some of Fr. Chinh’s family members, as well as members of the Salesian Family from the western United States. It was a grace-filled moment witnessed by many in person and virtually through live streaming. The celebration continued with a beautiful reception thereafter among those present.
We thank Bro. Jhoni and all consecrated Salesians for continuing to say “yes” daily to their Salesian vocation. Let us continue to pray for more vocations, especially to the Salesian Society.
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