By Bro. Damien Quang Ho, SDB
Photo: Mr. Patrick M. Gee
Dates and events serve as anchors in our collective and individual experiences as they are not only markers of chronological progression but symbols of deeper meanings and connections. This is especially true for us as Salesians as we celebrated the anniversary of our brothers at Saints Peter and Paul’s Church this past month in November on the Feast of Saint Andrew. In honoring the commitment made by our brothers, we also celebrate our history here in the United States on the feast of our patron. Our celebration is a milestone that marks a reaffirmation of faith, dedication, and commitment to the call to serve the young and the poor. Salesian religious professions and priestly ordinations are the fruits of this call, and the province anniversary is a moment to honor these sacred commitments.
Our jubilarians this year represent a diverse group of individuals who have dedicated their lives to Don Bosco’s mission. Together, they have contributed over 200 years of faithful service to God and the young people in our province. In a time where it’s so easy to shift attention and divert from initial intentions, the vocational witnesses of these individuals are valuable as they make the act of steadfast commitment all the more noteworthy and commendable. Whether 25 years professed, 40 years ordained, or even 60 years, our brothers show us that it is possible to be faithfully committed to God’s call. The province anniversary celebration every year reminds us that we too, can be faithfully committed to God’s call in our own lives. It holds a particular significance to me as a young Salesian because it serves as a reminder of the rich history of our province, built upon generations of committed Salesians who make it possible for me to live out my vocation as a Salesian consecrated person here in the United States. I can only imagine how many people have been inspired by our jubilarians throughout their Salesian life so far, but it is evident that the crowd that was present at Saints Peter and Paul’s and our intention to celebrate them is a testament to their generous self-offering of their lives.
Our brothers’ “yes” to their vocation reminds me of Mary’s “fiat” at the Annunciation. As our Advent season is coming to an end, we see how Mary’s, “Let it be done to me according to your word” in this Sunday’s readings, has deeply changed the course of salvation history. Amazing things happen when we entrust ourselves to God’s plan, even when we may not have a clear understanding of how it’s all going to happen. Such is the witness of our jubilarians, who continue to entrust their lives to God’s plan and reap the copious fruits of their trust in God. We share in their generosity. Their anniversary is worthy of our celebration. Congratulations to all our jubilarians!
