This year our Salesian Community in Bootle is very pleased to welcome two Salesian Brothers. David Marić and Solomon Tivlumun became a part of our community in September and will be with us for a year. They are involved in the parish and at the Salesian Academy of St John Bosco, sharing their Salesian charism and joy with great optimism and care. We have asked them to tell us a little bit about themselves and their Salesian journey so far.
Hello everyone!
I am Aondoaseer Solomon Tivlumun from the beautiful Benue State in the heart of North Central Nigeria. My journey with the Salesians began after completing my secondary education while working in my hometown. On the memorable day of September 8, 2017, I joyfully professed my first vows as a Salesian of Don Bosco, marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in my life.
I later embarked on a new phase of my mission, arriving in the United Kingdom in October 2022, to further my Salesian formation. My enriching experiences at Thornleigh, Bolton, prepared me for my current assignment in the welcoming Salesian Community in Bootle.
Here, I am wholeheartedly immersing myself in the local culture and various facets of life, enhancing my ability to serve effectively within the Salesian mission in the United Kingdom.
I earnestly pray for the continuous growth of the Salesian mission in this country, aspiring for more young hearts to embrace and cherish the boundless love of God. Looking forward to connecting and sharing inspiring moments with each of you!
Warm regards,
Aondoaseer Solomon Tivlumun, SDB
Pictured above: the school and youth centre where Bro Solomon used to work before arriving in the UK
Hello, everyone!
My name is David Marić, and I am excited to share a glimpse of my journey with you. Hailing from Croatia, I was born into a large Catholic family in a quaint village nestled in the heart of the Dalmatian hinterland. While my early spiritual upbringing was influenced by the strong Franciscan presence in my diocesan parish, it was encountering a Salesian priest within my community that truly ignited my passion for a life devoted to God and service to youth.
Inspired by the exemplary life of this Salesian, I embarked on my vocation journey after completing high school, eagerly following the path of Don Bosco. In September 2020, I officially became a part of the Salesian family, subsequently continuing my philosophical studies both in Rome and back home in Croatia.
As part of my ongoing formation, I had the privilege of spending a transformative year engaging in practical training within one of Croatia’s largest parishes.
There I had the honour of overseeing the activities of the Oratory, a vibrant Youth Centre within the parish. Interacting daily with young minds, the Oratory in Jarun fostered a diverse community of over 300 active members aged between 15 and 30. I worked closely with a team of 120 animators, collectively dedicated to imparting the values of faith, joy, and friendship through a range of engaging programs and events.
The invaluable experiences shared with these young individuals have not only enriched my personal journey but have deepened my commitment to the mission of Don Bosco. Presently, as I find myself in Bootle, embracing the upcoming year of practical training in the parish and at the Salesian Academy of St John Bosco, I eagerly anticipate the path that lies ahead, cherishing every step, every encounter, and every opportunity that the Lord graciously presents before me.
Thank you for allowing me to share a glimpse of my story with you all. Looking forward to seeing you around!
David Marić, SDB
Pictured above: the school and youth centre where Bro David used to work before arriving in the UK