Syria – The War continues, but the Salesian Summer Activities are back

13 June 2016

(ANS – Alep) – After over five years, the war continues to steep Syria in blood. Military people and politicians of the various fronts continue to pursue their particular goals to the detriment of the common good. And yet there are some who are even more obstinate that they are: they are the Salesians who continue to offer the youth of the martyr city of Alep their summer activities.

The summer activities of the Salesian Oratory commenced last week. About 800 young boys and girls participate in this event, assisted by the community of the SDBs, with the help of nearly 85 animators of various ages, and in diverse ways also by the entire Salesian Family in Alep.

“Despite the war and the darkness deriving from it, we try to light a small lamp of hope in the hearts of the youth of Alep. With great prudence and care we try to bring the children by bus to the oratory so that they may spend a few hours in joy and serenity”, narrates Fr. Pier Jabloyan, a Salesian confrère from Syria.

The theme chosen for this year’s Summer Activities is focused on mercy, starting from the story of Prophet Jonah. “This is a very relevant theme for us, not only because of the Jubilee year, but because it touches us deeply: our country is in need of mercy, the one that comes from God”.

In this pitiless war, the city lives in utmost contradiction: from one side the people are obliged to live the war fully, in the fear of urban guerrilla warfare and of snipers, explosions, lack of public services, hovering death, diseases… on the other the educative community tries to face day-to-day life as far as possible in peace, starting as soon as possible classes, outings, games, activities… And in this, the Salesian oratory is a true protagonist.

“In all this, we, as children of Don Bosco, try to do our best for the poorest youth. The Lord alone knows how things proceed here. Pray for us, because we are anticipating hard days ahead of us”, concludes Fr. Jabloyan.

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

This site also uses third-party cookies to improve user experience and for statistical purposes. By scrolling through this page or by clicking on any of its elements, you consent to the use of cookies. To learn more or to opt out, click "Further Information".