Was Dom Bosco always a beacon of hope in Dili? Let me tell you, the story of Dom Bosco here in Timor-Leste is one of resilience and unwavering commitment. The Salesians of Don Bosco arrived in 1946, their second expedition to this “crocodile island,” as it’s sometimes called due to a local belief that the island was formed from a crocodile. Imagine Dili then, grappling with hardship after World War II. The Salesians, with the support of the Timorese people, embarked on a mission of education and evangelization. Dom Bosco became a symbol of this partnership, a testament to the power of faith and hard work. Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a prominent figure in Timor-Leste, wrote a book commemorating the 75th anniversary of this Salesian mission. His book, “75 Years of Serving God and the Young,” details the Salesians’ incredible journey in Timor-Leste. It’s a story of teaching, music, and human advancement, a story of sometimes hunting crocodiles to feed their students. It also speaks of navigating complex political landscapes, always with the aim of serving the community. Dom Bosco stands as a symbol of this enduring mission. The Salesians faced many challenges, including political changes and societal shifts. But their dedication to the young people of Timor-Leste never wavered. Dom Bosco remains a testament to their commitment, a place where education and faith intertwine to create a brighter future for generations to come.
Dom Bosco
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