I vividly recall how enthusiastic I was and how I longed for the day in which I was going to dedicate my entire life to Jesus, living out the vocation as inspired by the Spirit to our Blessed Founder, Fr George Preca. I was still 18 years of age, and obviously I had never envisaged what was in store for me and what I was to experience throughout these 50 years in the Society. I can still re-live the beautiful experience which I still treasure in my mind of the reflection day, - held at Villambrosa in Marsa, - which was intended to prepare us for our Incorporation. Carmel Callus, who was Assistant Superior General, delivered the first talks. Superior Saviour Robinich, who was one of the Central Executive Council Members, conducted the Scripture Session, while Superior Francis Saliba, who was still Primarius by that time, and later became Superior General, gave the second talk. The ceremony itself was held at Fleur-de-Lys Centre, and Brother Frances Camilleri from Zejtun Centre delivered the Incorporation reflection.
    I find it obliging that my first duty on this occasion of my Golden Jubilee as SDC Member, is to thank God for giving me this very noble and particular call. I say this only because we are all aware that every good thing comes from God and through Him only. Secondly I must remember and pray for those who guided me by their good examples, instructions and formation. Namely, these were my immediate superiors at the Centres where I was, mentors, sponsors, and both the junior and senior Members who formed part of my SDC family.
    Now, while I reflect on this gift, I also feel the need to thank God for the magnificent experience I had in the regular contact with so many children, youth and adults through my Society pastoral activity mainly that in the field of catechism. Today, even though I am not so young any more, I look forward and promise that by God’s grace I will continue to work hard in the Lord’s vineyard until the end of my earthly journey.
    Before I conclude my message I would like to address a small word to all the Members, yet in a special way to the young. To the young SDC Members I would like to encourage them and plead with them that they should make the best use of the time God is giving them while they are still young and healthy. It is very consoling that when the time comes when one is sick or too old to be active, one is not sorry of the time lost in idle activity or in laziness. If you do your work with a joyful heart and a zealous spirit, than you will enjoy peace of mind and a tranquil heart. It is here fitting to reflect on the words of the Prophet Isaiah: "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news!" This line explicitly shows the preciousness of our vocation.

George Felice sdc
Rooty Hill - Aust

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