NOVENA TO ST. JOHN BOSCO

24 JANUARY 2012

FEAST OF ST. FRANCIS de SALES

The feast of St. Francis de Sales comes during the novena of St. John Bosco and rightly so, as Don Bosco took the name of his congregation from that of this great saint. He called his followers, ‘Salesians’ after St. Francis de Sales.

Francis was known for his gentleness and kindness in handling situations and people and he won over many by his kindness. His oft quoted words are, ‘You can catch more flies with a teaspoon of honey than with a barrel of vinegar.’

Don Bosco made him the patron saint of the Salesians as he felt that those of us who are working with young people need the gentleness and kindness of St. Francis de Sales. It important to be tender and loving to youngsters especially those marginalized and in distress.

During the novena mass we also had the First Holy Communion of Master Daniel Antonia, a boarder. He was looking indeed dashing in his white suit and all smiles to receive Jesus for the first time in his life.

Congratulations Daniel, and may you imitate St. Dominic Savio who made Jesus his best friend.