Lubumbashi, DR Congo – January 2026 – From 8-11 January, 19 Salesian practical trainees from the Our Lady of the Assumption Province (AFC) participated in their first formation session in Kasenga. The aim is to strengthen the human, spiritual, and pastoral formation of the practical trainees, while consolidating fraternal bonds in the service of the Salesian mission. The first formation session, led by Fr Dieudonné Bessa, SDB, responsible for the practical trainees, focused on re-reading the Letter of the Rector Major, emphasising availability and generosity, fundamental values of the Salesian vocation. The working days were characterised by various presentations, including a lesson on the law and the protection of minors, which helped to raise their awareness of their educational and pastoral responsibilities. Fr David Mubenga, SDB, then spoke about the evaluation of practical trainees after the novitiate, offering food for thought on the vocational journey and missionary commitment. Fr Paul Érick, SDB, addressed the theme of financial management and transparency, emphasising the importance of ethics and responsibility in the administration of goods. A moment of sharing experiences allowed the trainees to express their joys, responsibilities, and challenges encountered in their mission locations, thus strengthening the spirit of fraternity. The visit to the school for the deaf and dumb was a powerful moment of witness and solidarity.
