12-14 October

Hothorpe Hall

Nine Salesians from various parishes up and down the Province came together for their annual meeting in the countryside of Leicestershire. Also in attendance was the Provincial, Fr Martin Coyle SDB and the Youth Ministry Animator, Sue McDonald.

Fr Martin led Monday afternoon's session. He invited people to look at their own specific Parish - What are its strengths, its weaknesses? What challenges or threats are facing us? How can we respond to the opportunities that are in front of us? The session allowed people to speak about their parish, the people within those parishes - and the high points (and low points!) of their ministry.

Tuesday was led by Fr David O'Malley SDB - over three sessions during the day, David guided the group to look at some of the challenges of General Chapter 27 - how do we as Salesians move or further develop the Parish Community to an authentic place exhibiting Gospel values? How do we respond to young people within the Parish setting - how do we effectively continue to address their needs? Recognising that many young people often need an excuse to 'cross over the door', how do busy priests (already responding to the many needs of everyone else) make those connections? Using pieces of solid secular research, David guided the group in exploring where today's young people stand - and how religion and faith can indeed help young people to grow and survive in today's world. It was noted that the development of Don Bosco's work was through young people - 'come back next week, and bring your friends!'

David's input allowed people to reflect and discuss with each other on all the issues raised - a gentle timetable and approach id always very much appreciated when people live very busy lives.

The Wednesday session looked and felt very different. Fr Bob Gardner SDB (Salesian Link) - spoke briefly about where things were developing in the Media and Communications field - and presented all present with the new DVD resource from the Southwark Catholic Youth Service, 'Life in Christ'. He was followed by Sue McDonald from Youth Ministry who thanked all for the great support during Flame 2. She also outlined various activities that were happening (World Youth Day in Poland, the Young Adults Spirituality weekend etc) and offered support to those working with young people in the parishes.

There was a general discussion about the format of the Parishes Meeting for the future. People wanted to continue to meet, which was very positive - and a variety of topics were explored as to future themes/topics for the meetings. Fr Martin then spoke about the up and coming 'Visitation of the Province', the consultation for the new Provincial, as well as the Provincial Chapter to be held in 2016, at Limehouse, London. As one person commented - "The Salesian Charism is stronger than it ever was in the Province!"

The ministries of prayer and hospitality are always hugely important on these occasions - prayer, Mass, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament - along with excellent food and relaxing company. Hopefully people are going back to their Parishes feeling refreshed and encouraged, continuing to bring the Gospel to the Church, respecially the young, in a Salesian way.

Roll on the 17-19 October, 2016!!