There's something about going home that somehow brings things into perspective. Home--a place of security, a place of rest, a place of community, a place of God. "Home" can mean many things to different persons. To us, this word may have meant many things before; but, as of yesterday, this world took on a whole new meaning.
We had the opportunity of visiting the birthplace of our Salesianity here in the Eastern province, our very roots--Mary Help of Christians Church, New York, NY. We participated in a Sunday Mass so very alive with the mission of Don Bosco, in a church that has since been closed down. The echoes of history of youthful spirituality and Christian formation journey from wall to wall.
It was a privilege not only to sing along "Friend of the Young and the Poor" to the old organ there but also to dedicate our year to Mary, our Mother and Help of Christians, there at the altar. It was a beautiful experience that can hardly be explained in words!
It is our hope that the roots of Salesianity can take hold of our hearts and remain a firm foundation, a foundation that can't be closed or torn down. May our very bodies become the church, the temple of the Holy Spirit. And may all that is within us forever praise the God who loved us into existence and continues to love us forever.
Finally, we urge all those that have not had the opportunity to visit or pray at our first true Salesian parish east of the Mississippi River to do so, as the church is officially scheduled to have her last Holy Mass on September 9th.
To Christ Through Mary,
Your Salesian Pre-Novices
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