By Fr. Richard Alejunas, SDB, Province Treasurer
(New Rochelle, NY – October 9) – On Saturday evening, October 5, over 200 guests from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut united at New Rochelle's Salesian Wiegand Center for a worthy cause—the education/formation of future Salesian brothers and priests (Salesians of Don Bosco/SDBs)! This first annual Northeast dinner dance, Latin Night, held by the Province of St. Philip the Apostle, included food, music, dance, raffles, and an abundance of Salesian Family spirit and joy.
To begin the evening's festivities, Province Treasurer Fr. Richard Alejunas welcomed everyone and introduced the SUE Provincial Fr. Dominic Tran and the SDB Regional Councilor for Interamerica and member of the SDB General Council, Rome, Italy, Fr Hugo Orozco. Both Fr. Tran and Fr. Orozco spoke for a moment about the Salesian Family, friendship, and one's personal encounter with Christ. The honored guests for the night were the Salesians in initial formation (candidates, pre-novices, and post-novices) and their SDB formators.
Many thanks to the event's Leadership Committee, which was made up of Salesian Family members from the local area and led by Denise Martinez-Vargas and Miriam Coyt. "Mil gracias", too, to Salvador Garcia, his staff, SAGA event planners, and Marini's Catering for an exquisite decor, wonderful service, and a delicious meal. Also, a word of gratitude to Port Chester Parish Administrator/Vice-Provincial and Delegate for Ministry Fr. Franco Pinto and the parishioners of St. John Bosco Parish, Port Chester, for their great support of the evening.
Hope to see you all at next year's Latin Night 2025!