Rector Major Brings a Smile to Damascus

Rector Major Brings a Smile to Damascus

(ANS – Damascus – April 9) – While the Syrian civil war continued east of Damascus, Fr. Angel Fernandez Artime, accompanied by his secretary, Fr. Horacio Lopez, continued his pastoral visit to the SDBs’ Middle East Province with a visit to the Syrian capital. As Don Bosco’s successor, he brought to his confreres and the people to whom they minister, a population wounded by more thanb 7 years of war, a measure of comfort, joy, and hope.

The Rector Major arrived in Damascus on Thursday, April 5. In the early afternoon, accompanied by several young people, he journeyed as a pilgrim on the route of the Apostle Paul to the church of St. Ananias. There the story of St. Paul’s conversion (Acts 9:1-19) was recited, after which Fr. Fernandez offered a few words of commentary, emphasizing how important it was for everyone today to change their lives by directing them toward God.

The Rector Major’s day concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist at the church of St. Paul in the Tabbala section in Damascus, and with words of encouragement to the many who approached him.

The next day, the Rector Major first gathered with the Salesians of the local community to listen to their problems and challenges and offer his accompaniment. In the afternoon, he participated in a festive meeting with all the children, teens, and young adults of the youth center – a total of about 1,000 people.

“He was asked to pose for pictures and took selfies with all those who asked him!” said an amazed Sally A-Jamra, the province’s communications delegate.

The afternoon continued with traditional performances by members of the youth center, to which Fr. Fernandez responded by playing the guitar, much to the joy and satisfaction of everyone present. The Rector Major then presided over Mass in the courtyard of the house and set loose a dove, a sign of hope for peace for the city and the country. Finally, quoting Don Bosco, he told the young people present that they had stolen his heart.

During the evening spent with the center’s educational-pastoral community, he answered questions and said that he was happy to have found a second Valdocco in Damascus.

All photos of the visit are available on ANSFlickr.