Araras (Brazil). On 5 August 2021, the Salesian Work of Fraternal Support (OSAF) of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians of Araras (San Paolo), in Our Lady Aparecida Province (BAP) celebrated 53 years of socio-educational mission.
Present at the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by the parish priest of Araras, Fr. Carlos Alberto Rocha, were the OSAF Pastoral Educational Community, the Volunteers, the Leadership of the Institute of Fundamental and Middle Teaching NS Ausiliatrice (INSA), the benefactors, some representatives of Saint Anthony parish community, and the staff of the Municipal Social Assistance Secretariat.
In her words of welcome, the Animator of Mary Help of Christians FMA Community of Araras, Sr. Célia Regina Querido, underlined the joy of being able to celebrate this event together again. She also recalled the significance of the date of 5 August, on which the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians celebrates 149 years of foundation. Animated by the Salesian charism with the specific features of the ‘spirit of Mornese’, the FMA have as the purpose of their work the integral growth of people, the accompaniment of young people in their journey of maturing their life project, formation in the faith, and education in active citizenship, in gratuity, and solidarity in the style of Don Bosco’s Preventive System.
In his homily, Fr. Carlos highlighted the dedication and commitment of the FMA, who have been present in the city of Araras for over 123 years.
At the offertory, the OSAF students presented the gifts: a computer donated through the ‘Adopt a student’ campaign and a basket of basic foods, thanking the people who make a monthly contribution for families in need. Sr. Iracema Schoeps of the FMA Community presented the statuette of Mary Help of Christians as a sign of all being under Her protection.
At the end of the celebration, Sr. Metka Kastelic FMA, announced the first edition of the bulletin “OSAF Connection” and the creation of a profile on the social channel Instagram that reveal the educational commitment of the Work.
The celebration ended with the blessing of the renovated rooms and with a moment of fraternity in the technical workshops.
