St John Bosco was moved by the plight of the many poor youth who were flocking to the city of Turin in his time and ending up in terrible situations of exploitation and misery. Being a man of God and of action, he took the initiative to reach out to them through his festive Oratory and later was able to open many technical schools and centres for their benefit through the Salesians that he founded – not only in Italy, but throughout the world.

He often used to say, however, that he only had his good intentions – he depended on the generosity of his benefactors to change these intentions into reality. His benefactors were, so to speak, the fuel that set the motor in motion and any good that he managed to achieve was due to them.

Being here on the missions in Nigeria, I realise how true his words are; the situation here is not different to that of the young in Europe in his time; we Salesians here in Ondo town run a technical school, parish and youth centre in an effort to alleviate the youth and people out of their poverty. To function and run the school, we rely mainly on the financial help that is sent from abroad.

The Mission Fund is well known among the Maltese public for the tangible support that it gives to all Maltese missionaries, making it possible for them to make concrete the generosity of the Maltese. I, for my part would like to acknowledge the generous donation sent by the Mission Fund of $1311, and to thank them for the support and solidarity that they show.

The money sent will go to support the poor of the area who come to us seeking help. Very often, we come in contact with cases of individuals and families which deserve support and we try to help as best we can. The type of assistance we give varies, such as helping a number of poor families pay the school fees of their children, and obtain the necessary school books. In particular, we try to help the very needy ones, young and old, to meet their medical expenses since here they have to pay for any medical treatment.

I therefore encourage one and all to continue to support the Mission Fund by sending donations or used stamps or phone cards, which are then sold to raise funds. The solidarity that the Mission Fund has shown consistently over the years with all Maltese missionaries is to be commended.

Indeed, the work that is done by Maltese missionaries – priests, sisters and lay throughout the world, has a far-reaching influence – much more then we realise. I have met Indian missionaries here, and also local clergy, who are ever so grateful for the assistance they got in their formation from Maltese missionaries or benefactors. Anyone who wishes to support the formation of an African candidate to the priesthood, can do so by contacting Fr Joe Forte on 2133-4409.

The feast of Don Bosco – celebrated yesterday – is an occasion of gratitude for the many benefactors who have helped in making his dream a reality, and to thank God for sending this humble priest as a sign of His predilection for the young.

Fr Richard Ebejer S.D.B.

Ondo – Nigeria