“Homecoming” of Past Pupils of the FMA Cambodia – Province CMY

Phnom Penh (Cambodia). To celebrate the 150^th anniversary of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and the 30^th anniversary of their presence in Cambodia, the meeting took place of the FMA Past Pupils “Homecoming of Past Pupils”.

The event was coordinated by Sr. Leeza Kokkatt, FMA, contact person for the Salesian Family of Cambodia, who networked with numerous Past Pupils to make this experience possible.

In her greeting, the Provincial of Mary Our Help (CMY) Province, Sr. Gertrudes Ditching, shared with them the meaning of the 150^th anniversary of the Institute and the reasons for celebrating its fruitfulness in the 30 years of presence in Cambodia. She presented the pioneer missionaries present who sowed the little seeds that have grown to become a tree, whose fecundity was manifested in the three Cambodian FMA vocations (one is now in Rome), a pre-aspirant, and in the formation house in the Philippines, where there are an aspirant and a 2^nd year Novice. In addition, two Past Pupils became Sisters in two different Congregations. Fertility then reached Singapore, giving a Singaporean FMA.

Since every “homecoming” brings with it many memories, the Past Pupils were invited to share the dearest memories of the years they spent with the FMA, their school experiences, even if there was not enough time for everyone. Among the many shared aspects, above all the love and care received from the Sisters emerged; at school, they really perceived the Sister as a second mother.

One of them said that, looking back on the old school days she was happy, and was even happier on this occasion of “homecoming” for the celebration of the 150^th anniversary, an opportunity to meet the dear Sisters from all the Schools/Centers in Cambodia, their former teachers, class and school companions.

Another said, “This encounter is very meaningful for me! It is one of the happiest days after graduation in my school. We had so much fun and were so happy! We talked and shared our life and work experiences; some are single or married.” “It was really lovely to see all our friends again. Thanks to the Sisters, teachers, and Past Pupils who prepared and realized the day. This beautiful celebration will remain forever in our hearts.”

Sr. Gertrudes concluded her talk by inviting us to reflect individually and in groups on what the Past Pupils could do to concretely help build society as a gift for the Jubilee Year. Even more important is facing the challenge of being “Past Pupils: a gift for the other Past Pupils”, as Mother Yvonne affirmed in her letter (Online with the FMA Past Pupils, 24 August 2021). Indeed, it is a great challenge to bring together those who are furthest away, disadvantaged, discouraged, in difficulty.

“Homecoming of Past Pupils” is only the beginning of other ‘returns home’, with the aim of strengthening the groups of Past Pupils from the different educational environments of the Salesian Sisters in Cambodia.

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