(ANS – Jarabacoa) – With a spirit of brotherhood and gratitude, the National Association of Former Salesian Trainees of the Dominican Republic (ANES) – which brings together those who have spent a period in religious formation in Salesian houses in the country – celebrated its 50th anniversary with a memorable gathering from August 8 to 10 at the “Pinar Quemado” center in Jarabacoa. The event, which brought together members from different generations, not only commemorated half a century of history but also reaffirmed bonds of friendship and connection with the Salesian Family.
A Warm Friday Reunion
The gathering began on Friday afternoon with the arrival of the first members. The atmosphere quickly filled with joy and nostalgia as participants reunited and shared memories of their years in formation. This fraternal spirit set the tone for a weekend full of activities.
Saturday: Encounters, Eucharist, and Sports
On Saturday, the day continued with a special visit to the Salesian community of Jarabacoa. The former trainees had the opportunity to spend time and engage in dialogue with senior Salesians, a gesture that highlighted the respect and affection that have endured over time. This was followed by the celebration of the Eucharist in the chapel of the former aspirantate, a place of deep significance for many present. In the afternoon, the program featured a traditional highlight: a lively soccer match, where healthy competition and the joy of play took center stage.
Honoring Distinguished Members
On Saturday evening, a well-deserved tribute was paid to the careers of several members of the Association. Among those honored for their distinguished service in education were William Rosario and Christian Quéliz, along with other notable Salesians. Honorees also included Fr. Juan Francisco Tejada, Fr. Ángel Soto, Fr. Juan Linares, and Fr. Víctor Pichardo, all of whom have served in important roles in the works of the “St. John Bosco” Province of the Antilles. The evening concluded with music, songs, and dancing, in a celebration that reflected the festive and joyful spirit characteristic of the Salesian Family.
Sunday: Looking Ahead
Sunday morning was dedicated to the association’s ordinary assembly, where key topics for ANES’s future were discussed. Members reviewed and updated the statutes and expressed gratitude to the outgoing board for its dedicated service over the past two years.
A new board was elected for the 2025–2027 term:
President: Eddy Cabreja Vice President: Miguel Ángel Arroyo Treasurer: Sergio Abreu Secretary: Francisco Alberto Pérez Board Members: Martín Ortega, Rafael Durán, and Wilmy Reyes Advisors: Porfirio Abreu, Amado Then, and Juan Roberto González
The assembly was dedicated to the memory of Nidia Rivas Ángeles, mother of newly elected President Eddy Cabreja.
A Celebration with a Purpose
This 50th anniversary gathering of ANES was not only a celebration of the journey so far but also an opportunity to strengthen the commitment of former trainees to Salesian values, ensuring that the flame of friendship and service in the spirit of Don Bosco continues to burn for generations to come.