Hajja Salesjana October-November 2020

H AJJA S ALESJANA A brief introduction of yourself, your family and your studies. I was born in Victoria, Gozo on the 2nd August 1944. My parents were Carmelo Cini and Carmela. I am the eldest of four siblings. In 1962, I started the aspirantate in Pedara, Sicily. In 1964 completed the novitiate at San Gregorio, Catania, Sicily where I continued my studies of Philosophy and had my practical training. In 1970, I started Theology at the INSERM, Malta. In 1974 I was ordained priest at the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, Gozo by H.E. Mons. Nicholas Cauchi, Bishop of Gozo. In 1976, I continued my studies at the ‘Universita’ Pontificia Salesiana’ in Rome where I read for the Licenciate in Sacred Theology (S.Th.L.). In 1980, I obtained a Diploma in Art from the ‘Accademia di Belle Arte’ in Rome. 1. How did you come to know Don Bosco? My parents, with their example and zeal for work and spirituality, gave me the initial Christian education that helped me choose the vocation that I wished for and to continue with the life I wanted to follow. At a tender age, I attended the Salesian Oratory in Victoria, Gozo where I met my first spiritual educators under the direction of Fr. Louis Mizzi SDB, a Gozitan Salesian. These Salesians were capable of instilling in us the sanctity of Don Bosco, the true Salesian values and the Salesian paedagogical System as inspired by Don Bosco. These Salesians observed and studied our character and ambitions. When they realised our interest in Salesian spirituality they continued to guide us and prepare us to make the right decision to become a Salesian priest. 2. Fr. Charles Cini SDB Mill-album tal-Familja Salesjana 14