Salesians provide programs in Damascus, Aleppo and Kafroun

(MissionNewswire) Salesians are continuing their work with youth in Syria* in the face of the challenging security situation in the country. Salesian projects for youth provide a ray of hope in the midst of continuing insecurity and violence. In Damascus, Aleppo and Kafroun, joint summer activities were offered to 2,200 youth.

“In times of great uncertainty, our centers are places of hope for children and young people. It is our task to offer them a future perspective in spite of all dangers, because every young person deserves to grow up in peace and security,” explained Father Simon Zakerian, superior of the Salesians in the Middle East, in a statement released by the Austrian Salesian Mission Office, Don Bosco Mission Austria.

This summer, Salesians continually assessed the security and sometimes had to amend or cancel programs for the safety of all. After the attack on the Mar Elias church in Damascus in June, in which more than 25 people were killed, the summer programs in Damascus were suspended. Programs resumed in mid-July with strict security measures. Summer activities continued after a brief interruption in Aleppo and Kafroun, but large-scale group activities such as summer camps were replaced by smaller, safer activities nationwide.

The Salesian Mission Office in Vienna has been supporting the educational and development programs of the Salesians in Syria for many years. Salesian Brother Günter Mayer, director general of Don Bosco Mission Austria, added, “In the face of a situation in Syria that remains dramatic, the commitment of our confreres and local staff is even more impressive. Education, a sense of community and trust are key to rebuilding a peaceful society.”

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Syria – Help and hope from the Salesians in the midst of the crisis. Also ‘Don Bosco Mission Austria’ in support of young Syrians

Salesian Missions

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.