On May 17, 2024, Fr. Marc Will R. Lim, SDB, the Vice President of Administration at Don Bosco Technical College, conducted an orientation on the Salesian Educative Pastoral Plan (SEPP) for representatives of its stakeholders. Selected Lay Mission Partners, students, parents representing various sectors, and alumni attended the orientation in the Pastoral Center.

He commenced the orientation with a mutual introduction, fostering a sense of belonging among everyone present. Emphasizing the inclusive nature of SEPP, he reiterated that its essence lies in ensuring that no one is left behind. Understanding the previous iterations of SEPP is crucial to contextualize and inform the crafting of the new plan.

Fr. Lim informed the participants that evangelization is the most pressing activity, focusing on the youth, especially the most disadvantaged. Grounded in the charism of Don Bosco and the preventive system, the Salesian Youth Ministry constitutes a structured endeavor within the Educative and Pastoral Community (EPC), driven by a charismatic mission.

Fr. Lim discussed the following points:

• SEPP embodies a tangible approach to planning, guiding the mission's evolution while placing the young person at its core.

• SEPP is characterized by community engagement and openness to the local context, fostering dialogue with other educational, social, and religious institutions within the locality and acknowledging progress within the institution.

• SEPP operates as a dynamic process encompassing four dimensions: God (Education to the Faith, Implicit and Explicit), World (Educational and Cultural Dimension), Self (Vocational Dimension), and Others (Group and Social Experience). These dimensions are interdependent, each contributing to the holistic development of the plan.

He also stressed the importance of understanding the context of the Salesian House, its priorities, and preferred options, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making.

In conclusion, Father Marc Will reminded participants that Don Bosco transcends being merely an institution; it stands as a pastoral institution committed to the holistic well-being of its members.

Don Bosco Mandaluyong participants are scheduled to engage in SEPP sessions on June 24 and 28, 2024. Fr. Joel Camaya, SDB will facilitate the sessions.

by Ms. Jane Lansang, DBTC Pastoral Office