BLESSING OF THE NEW CLASSROOM BLOCKS AND SEMINAR ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND COVID – 19

BLESSING OF THE NEW CLASSROOM BLOCKS AND SEMINAR ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND COVID – 19

16 August 2020 696 By CL. Oliver Katongo SDB

On the morning of 10th August, 2020, the Salesians of Don Bosco, together with the students of Don Bosco technical College and secondary school pupils, gathered for the solemn blessing of the newly built classroom blocks at Don Bosco Secondary School. The event was officiated by Rev.Fr. Christopher Rychcik SDB, the Provincial Superior of ZMB – Vice Province of Mary Help of Christians.

The Salesian community of Chingola carries out its educative and evangelizing mission through the mediation of basic institutional structures; namely: Don Bosco Technical College/Secondary School and the Youth Center. These become the channels through which the totality of the Salesian mission of serving the young people is realized.

The afore – mentioned occasion was also a moment of communal gratitude to God the Father for His unfailing providence and Love towards both the Salesians and the young people whom they are called to serve. Don Bosco reminds us that whatever is acquired or received towards the growth of our Salesian work is essentially for the greater glory of God.

The blessing of the newly built secondary school facilities was later followed by a short seminar in the afternoon. The Seminar was initially geared towards creating awareness in two important matters; the dangers of substance abuse and the need to take precautions against the deadly Corona Virus. This educative gathering was well attended by the young people of Don Bosco Technical College/Secondary School and all the respective members of staff. The Provincial Superior, Fr. Christopher Rychcik, graced the occasion.

The first speaker gave a detailed elaboration of the meaning of substance abuse and highlighted examples of the commonly abused substances. She also endeavored to show that substance abuse is not only linked to various health crises, but is also undeniably linked to acts of sexual immorality. The latter may lead one to contract life – threatening sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s).

Thereafter; Fr. Christopher Rychcik reminded the audience that the Corona Virus Pandemic is a real situation globally and that none is exempted from being infected if proper care and health guidelines are ignored. He made an example of the attitude assumed by Don Bosco when the city of Turin was attacked by an outbreak of Cholera in the 19th century. Don Bosco exhorted the boys above all else, to keep themselves in the grace of the Lord at all times. Similarly, the Provincial emphasized the need for each and everyone in attendance to strengthen their closeness to God and thus, experience sure protection during the course of the Covid -19.

He also noted the urgency of observing all the instructions and precautions provided by the scientists and regular health institutions in the fight against the pandemic. To this effect, each of those who were present for this timely assembly received a personal, non-disposable mask to be regularly used for self-protection against the Corona Virus. The day was concluded with a meal and joy characterized the atmosphere.  Thanks for the financial support given by the Polish Episcopal Conference for the help rendered to combat the epidemic of Covid -19.



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