(ANS – León) – José Manuel González Díez is the first Spanish Salesian Brother to become Rector of a Salesian community. This possibility has been open since this year, having been approved ‘ad experimentum’ for the next six years by the Salesian Congregation at its 29th General Chapter.

José Manuel González Díez signed the decree of his appointment as Rector during the celebration that took place in the Santiago el Mayor House in León. The Eucharist was presided over by the Vice-Provincial of SSM, Fr. Samuel Segura. Also present at the altar were Fr. Rafael Castro, outgoing Rector, and the priests who are members of the communities in León. Among those present were also representatives of the Educative and Pastoral Community (EPC) of the Santiago el Mayor house in León.

The ceremony took place with a very simple ritual, in the context of a Eucharist attended by numerous Salesians from the two communities of León, lay managers and administrators, the Salesian Family from the area, and the 18 Salesians from the nursing home who are assisted by the staff of the Camilio de Lellis Foundation. During the same celebration, Fr. Castro was greeted with great affection, thanking him for his service and dedication over the years.

José Manuel González thus becomes the first Salesian Brother in Spain to direct a Salesian house, thus following the GC29 resolution approved “ad experimentum” by the Chapter Assembly, which proposes that Salesian Brothers may run for the post of rector.

The presentations of the new rectors of both provinces took place during the month of July, and the remaining ones will be held until the last days of the month. Each celebration becomes a moment to thank the outgoing rector for the work done and for the availability of the incoming one.

Source: salesianos.info