Intercommunity Reunion
On 18 May, with the date of the birth of Saint Marcellin Champagnat close, the Intercommunity Reunion of el Salvador was held in the School of Ateos, the « Complejo Educativo Católico Jesús Obrero », on the occasion of the 25 years of Marist presence in this place.
The organisation and preparation for the reunion was assured by a Brother and the school co-ordinators, with the help of the students.
The participants were happy with the arrival of the Marist Brothers, representing the different communities of Salvador : San Miguel, Collège Champagnat, École San Alfonso, Lycée San Luis, Lycée Salvadoreño and Talnique. Madame Director was also present, with some of the teachers and the educational and pastoral co-ordinators of the establishment.
The reunion began after the customary greetings. The Br Provincial, Hipólito Pérez, thanked God for the Marist presence during these 25 years in Ateos. Then the primary students (7th degree) wished them welcome with a song composed exclusively for the occasion and sung by the pupils.
The founder of the « Escuela Parroquial Marista », Br Luis Elósegui, gave a brief history of the Marist presence. He recalled with much emotion former times… when the church pews took the place of desks… Two teachers offered their testimony of the successes and difficulties in the course of the years, and how the Marist presence had been a blessing from God for the whole community, especially for the children, youth and teachers. Another teacher explained the origins of the « Instituto Técnico Vocacional Jesús Obrero » : courses in esthetics and beauty, advanced computers, computer maintenance, automotive mechanics, clothing design and confection, professional gastronomy. All these courses favoured the most disadvantaged, placing at their disposal tools for dignified and stable employment.
After the coffee break, the Brothers held their meeting, which ended with Mass celebrated by the parish priest of the « San Antonio de Padua » parish of Ateos. Finally, Brothers and laity shared the meal.
It must be emphasized that the « Complejo Educativo » of Ateos is currently run by lay people who have taken up the challenge of being Champagnat today.
The « Complejo Educativo Católico Jesús Obrero » is happy and grateful to the Lord for being able to participate in the charism inherited from Saint Marcellin Champagnat.