PUNE, SEPTEMBER 1, 2008: Don Bosco Youth Centre, Koregaon Park was blessed with the visit of the new Regional Councillor for South Asia, Fr. Maria Arokiam on Saturday, August 30. DBYC is proud to recall that Fr. Maria Arokiam was once a member of this Salesian community!
The confreres g
reeted Fr. Maria Arokiam with a welcome song, after which, Fr. Godfrey D’Souza, Vice Provincial, in his inimitable and humorous style, extended a warm welcome to him on behalf of the community. Br P. M. Thomas and Cl. Santaramand Lopes then presented bouquets to the visiting Councillor.
Addressing the community, Fr. Maria Arokiam recalled old memories of his days at DBYC Pune and also the good relationship he has enjoyed with the Mumbai Province all through these years. He then spoke about the Six Year Plan of the congregation, focusing especially on the South Asian Region. He also highlighted the three fold thrust of GC26. Before he closed the session, he answered a few questions raised by those present.
Speaking again during the ‘Good Night’ talk, he shared his reflections on the parable of the labourers hired at the different moments of the day. He pointed out that work itself is its own reward. Those who have been working longer and harder in the Lord's vineyard should be grateful for having been given the opportunity to do so, instead of comparing themselves with others. He concluded by saying that the same reward is promised to all, but the Lord has given a few the privilege of working more.
Ashwin Macwan sdb