By Fr. Randy Figuracion, SDB

Davao, Philippines - Salesians of the different communities of Mindanao gathered at the Hill of Mercy, Magtuod, Davao City for a one-day recollection on September 30, 2015. Owned by Tito and Dale Gloriani who opened their doors to the salesians to use their facilities as a place encounter, the Hill of Mercy was a beautiful venue for interior discovery. The Mindanao cluster gathering was even made more special by Fr. Dennis Paez, a salesian from the FIN Province and a trained psychologist who professionally guided the confreres in the communitarian reflection of their life and mission.

The activity was the first of a series of cluster recollections to be held also in Negros and Cebu. Organized by the Commission on Formation headed by Fr. Amelito Narciso Racelis, SDB, it was at the same time a preparation for the Provincial Assembly Day on November 5, 2015. Fr. Gio Santos, SDB coordinated the scattered communities in this big island to make this activity happen. The Mindanao cluster gathering was further graced by the presence of Fr. Godofredo Atienza, the FIS Provincial.

There are currently three communities in Mindanao: a center for difficult youth in Don Bosco – Maa, a parish dedicated to Mary Help of Christians in Don Bosco – Calinan and a Training Center and a Parish in Don Bosco – Mati, Davao Oriental. The Salesians arrived in Mindanao in 1992 in Dahican, Mati, Davao Oriental. The presence of Don Bosco is a great push for the development of Mati and the surrounding towns of Davao Oriental.