Golden Jubilee of Fr. Leo E. Ochoa, SDB.

By Cl. John Nary, SDB

Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 29 June 2017 -- Celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession Fr. Leo E. Ochoa, SDB. together with Salesian family in Cambodia was a memorable occasion of joy and love. The celebration started off with sports competition (Footsal and Volleyball) also called as Fr. Leo’s Cup at night among the boarders. On 28 June Fr. Leo distributed the prizes to the winners. He had with him few of his companions from Philippines Bishop Patricio Buzon, Fr. Benedict Cavestany, Fr. Ernie Cruz and Fr. Richard Varela. A few Salesians like Bro. Worawut, Fr. Aaron and Fr. Tamayo along with Fr. Thepharat the Provincial of Thai-Cambodia-Laos graced the occasion with their presence.

The celebration of the Eucharist was on 29 June 2017 in the Don Bosco Technical School Chapel. All members of the Salesian family were present to celebrate the 50 years of Fr. Leo’s faithful service to the young people in Philippines, Thailand and Cambodia. It was an important day for Fr. Leo as he had a few of his companions along with him during this celebration. The faith community present for the Eucharistic banquet were present as one big happy family as in the mind of Don Bosco – Salesians, FMAs, Salesian Co-operators, Past-pupils, Staff, students and benefactors. Fr. Leo’s theme for the celebration was “Gratitude, Celebration and Transformation”.

After food for the soul we were filled with food for the body and spirit with a festive meal and cultural programme running simultaneously. The students of Don Bosco Technical School prepared the entire cultural events for the afternoon and it was enjoyed by all.

At the end of it all there was one sentiment that ran through all of those gathered for the festivities. The sentiment of Gratitude to God and His awesome accompaniment in the life of Fr. Leo. All the Salesian in the Kingdom of Cambodia were present to rejoice with gratitude for the gift of the Salesian vocation of Fr. Leo.

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