Amid the wars, the impotence of migrants and refugees, in places where poverty, epidemics and hunger are part of the daily routine, there is always a welcoming Salesian heart, which is there to help, accompany and instill hope.
In these days of celebrations and excesses of food, drinks, gifts and best wishes, the Salesians have underscored the true essence of Christmas: the birth of Jesus, the person who gives meaning to one's missionary spirit and the life of millions of people in the world, whose adversities do not prevent us from going forward and fighting for a better future.
Even in these days, as on every day of the year, Salesian missionaries are at the side of those who suffer. The word "share" takes on a special meaning at this time of year, however. In fact, these days, thanks to the generosity of many donors, it was possible to carry out special activities with children and young people, so that they know the true meaning of Christmas.
In Syria, Salesian oratories and youth centers continue to answer to the need to represent "an oasis of peace" in the midst of the war; in Venezuela, the Salesians share the arepas with many families affected by the dramatic situation of scarcity and crisis that afflicts the country; in Colombia, hundreds of minors who attend Salesians as part of child protection programs celebrated Christmas Eve at Ciudad Don Bosco Medellín; in Mexico the Salesian refectory "Padre Chava" offered special meals for the hundreds of migrants who gather inside every day.
In other parts of the world, the celebration around the table was much simpler, as in the refugee camp of Palabek (Uganda), where the South Sudanese who escaped from the war shared a dish of rice with sauce with the Salesians. The same happened in many African capitals, where Salesian missionaries gathered many street children, so they could experience a different Christmas, in an atmosphere of affection and familiarity.
What has not changed from one continent to another has been the joy of the true Christmas spirit.
Source: Misiones Salesianas.
