The Community of Scolasticate Blessed Michel Rua – Don Bosco Kabgayi and the Oratory at large were filled with joy and celebration today (February 2, 2025) as young people, Salesians and the wider community gathered to celebrate the feast of St. John Bosco, Father and Teacher of the youths and the beloved founder of the Salesian Congregation. The feast, marked with spiritual and recreational activities, was a true reflection of Don Bosco’s mission of educating and caring for young people.
The celebrations began with the Holy Mass, presided over by Rev Fr Augustine Cesar Habanabakize – Director of the community, in which the faithful especially the young people reflected on the life and teachings of St. John Bosco. In his homily, Fr Cesar highlighted Don Bosco’s dedication to the young people, his love for education, and his unwavering trust in Divine Providence. The congregation, composed of young people, parents, Salesians, and members of the salesian family, participated actively, different groups singing hymns and praying for the continued guidance of Don Bosco’s spirit in their lives.
After the Mass, the spirit of joy and togetherness continued with a friendly football match that marked the climax of the Don Bosco cup. Young people from the oratory and around the neighborhood composing different teams came together to compete in an atmosphere of sportsmanship and fraternity. The matches which were between WINNERS FC vs IMPENA FC for children under 18 ended IMPENA FC emerging as the winner 1-0. And for the adults VISION FC beat KAVUMU FC 3-1. These matches were not only a source of entertainment but also a moment of unity, embodying Don Bosco’s vision of using sports as a means to educate, evangelize and instill discipline in young people.
Sharing of Juice and Bread: A Gesture of Family Spirit
Following the game, participants and guests gathered in the gymnasium for a grand celebration. The event featured songs, performances, and speeches that emphasized the legacy of Don Bosco and the impact of the Salesian mission in Kabgayi. The joy on the faces of the young people reflected the lively and welcoming spirit that Don Bosco always envisioned in his oratories.
The celebrations concluded with a simple yet meaningful act of sharing juice and bread. This moment symbolized the family spirit that Don Bosco always encouraged—where no one is left behind, and everyone is welcomed as part of a greater community of love and care.
As the feast came to an end, the participants left with renewed enthusiasm to live according to Don Bosco’s teachings—promoting kindness, education, and faith among young people. The Oratory of Don Bosco Kabgayi once again demonstrated that the Salesian spirit is alive, touching the hearts of many and inspiring the next generation. Viva Don Bosco!
Richard Dickson MUGASHO, sdb Scolasticate Kabgayi