Hajja Salesjana October-November 2020

That was to be his turning point as his interest in the Salesians and their way of life soared. By profession he is an architect and he also plays the violin beautifully. He studied in Malta and in Italy and spent his practical training years at the Juniors Club in Sliema. He will now be responsible for the Salesian Youth Centre in Sliema. Paul also hails from B’ Kara and has a twin brother. He also has two elder brothers and a sister and four lovely, little nephews and nieces. Together with Jake and Paul, there was another Salesian who was ordained with them – Damian Formosa. Damian is a missionary in Kenya where he works as headmaster in a Salesian school. He originally hails from Tarxien, has an elder sister and a younger brother and was a past pupil of Savio College till 1988. He studied in Malta, Switzerland and Ireland. In 1988, we were both aspirants together and initially studied Philosophy together too at the University of Malta. Without detracting anything from the beauty of the Salesian calling of both Jake and Paul, Damian’s vocational story is truly unique and amazing. Following his novitiate year in Dublin in 1991, he professed temporary vows and then came to study Philosophy in Malta as a Salesian brother in formation. However, he eventually decided to leave the Salesians and in due time also got married. He began to work in the insurance industry and in the therapeutic field. He is the father of Liam, his very supportive 23 year old son. As the years progressed, his initial Salesian calling began to rise again with insistence deep within him. Eventually, his marriage was annulled and with his son’s permission, Damian rejoined the Salesians and began the journey towards the Salesian priesthood in Kenya. Both his ex wife and his son were present for his ordination to the priesthood. His son is very proud of his father’s decision to become a priest. Together with the seven other men who were ordained priests with them, Jake, Paul and Damian are indeed a clear sign that God still calls persons today to follow Him. However, ultimately it is up to each individual to answer or stifle the calling to be among God’s chosen. It is freely up to every called disciple to allow himself to be sent to spread the Good News, to be a messenger of His endless Love and to be a signpost to the One who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Let us never tire to pray for more vocations and let us intercede for the perseverance of those who have already answered the call that they may continue to be credible and authentic witnesses of God’s Love and Mercy with whomever they meet on life’s journey. 21 H AJJA S ALESJANA