The Christmas Message of the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard

RMG, Rome – 24 December 2025 – On the occasion of Christmas, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco addressed a simple and heartfelt message to Salesians and members of the Salesian Family, inviting them to contemplate the mystery of the birth of the Son of God. In his message, the Rector Major recalled that the birth of Jesus took place in a context of … Continue reading The Christmas Message of the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard

Celebrate Christmas by Helping the Homeless in Skid Row

By Ricardo Quintero, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – This is a busy season of celebrations with family and friends. As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us also remember the poor for whom we are called to be Good News. Here is is an opportunity to engage your family and friends in caring for the homeless on Sunday, December 28. It’s simple – … Continue reading Celebrate Christmas by Helping the Homeless in Skid Row

Official Presentation of the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2026: Next Saturday, December 27, 2025

(ANS – Rome) – With the world premiere of the video and an accompanying interview with the Rector Major, next Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the Generalate of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Rome, the official presentation of the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2026 will take place on the theme: “Do whatever he tells you. Believers, free to serve.” Since the time of … Continue reading Official Presentation of the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2026: Next Saturday, December 27, 2025

Goodnight Talk of the Rector Major at the Conclusion of the Winter Session of the General Council

(ANS – Rome) – In the traditional “Salesian goodnight” talk at the conclusion of the Winter Session of the General Council yesterday, Monday December 22, 2025, the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, addressed his confreres at the Central Headquarters with a summary reflection aimed at understanding and implementing the Strenna for 2026, inspired by the Gospel theme of the Wedding at Cana: “Do whatever he tells … Continue reading Goodnight Talk of the Rector Major at the Conclusion of the Winter Session of the General Council

The Formation of the Salesians of Don Bosco – Ratio 5th edition 2025

(ANS – Rome) – During their session on December 22, 2025, the Rector Major and the General Council approved the complete text of the fortieth draft of the Ratio, after examining the entire text, divided into 14 units, in 14 previous sessions and approving them individually. This is the culmination of a long journey that began with the 28th General Chapter in 2020. Pope Francis, … Continue reading The Formation of the Salesians of Don Bosco – Ratio 5th edition 2025

Due to New Clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo, There is Once Again a State of Emergency in the Country

(ANS – Gitega) – On December 10, anti-government rebel forces occupied the city of Uvira, the second largest city in South Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This latest action follows what took place last January in the city of Goma, when rebel militias invaded the city, taking possession of it and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis already underway. According to the United Nations, in … Continue reading Due to New Clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo, There is Once Again a State of Emergency in the Country

Empowering Futures: 2025 Northern California College Exposure Trip Inspires Our Youth

(Boyle Heights, California) – In the spring of 2025, eighteen students from the Salesian Family Youth Center embarked on an unforgettable journey through Northern California’s top universities, including UC Santa Barbara, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, CSU Monterey Bay, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. This College Exposure Trip was more than a visit—it was a hands-on experience designed to expand students’ horizons, deepen their … Continue reading Empowering Futures: 2025 Northern California College Exposure Trip Inspires Our Youth

Salesian Youth Ministry and Its Great Energy and Impact in the Two Regions of America

(Rome, Italy) – December 2025 – To continue strengthening collaboration between the various sectors and regions, the General Councillor for Youth Ministry, Fr. Rafael Bejarano, concluded a series of meetings with the Regional Councillors of the two Regions of America, Fr. Gabriel Romero (America South Cone) and Fr. Hugo Orozco (Interamerica). During the meeting, which took place in an atmosphere of deep listening, dialogue, and … Continue reading Salesian Youth Ministry and Its Great Energy and Impact in the Two Regions of America

A Celebration of Unity and Commitment in the Salesian Family at Santo Domingo Savio

By Rachel Pinchinati (Bellflower, California) – An image speaks louder than a thousand words. With that spirit, on December 14, 2025, a very special day was experienced by the Salesian Family, which celebrated one more year of hard and constant work within the great Santo Domingo Savio community, reaffirming its commitment to the most in-need children and young people, following the style of Don Bosco. … Continue reading A Celebration of Unity and Commitment in the Salesian Family at Santo Domingo Savio

A Unique Family / Una Familia Única 

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB Our Scriptural prayer this Holy Family Sunday leads us to trace God’s place, His guidance, and His authority in the family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. First, we might notice that the opening reading from Sirach turns the family’s name around. It becomes Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. St. Paul, much in the Old Testament style of Sirach, does refer to … Continue reading A Unique Family / Una Familia Única 

Global Collaboration: Charting the Future of Salesian Vocational Training Centers

(ANS – Rome) – On December 18, 2025, the Youth Ministry Department brought together Don Bosco TECH Regional Directors from India, Africa, Europe, and ASEAN for an online meeting, focused on strengthening global collaboration and envisioning the future of Salesian Vocational Training Centers (VTC). The virtual gathering provided a shared space for reflection on regional developments, emerging challenges, and collective aspirations for the Salesian mission in … Continue reading Global Collaboration: Charting the Future of Salesian Vocational Training Centers

Operation Mato Grosso: A Story that Continues

(ANS – Colle Don Bosco) – On December 7, a meeting was held in the Lower Basilica at Colle Don Bosco for volunteers of Operation Mato Grosso, a spontaneous movement that educates young people through voluntary work in favour of the poorest in Latin America, born from the heart and imagination of Salesian priest Ugo De Censi. About a thousand young people gathered to remember Fr. … Continue reading Operation Mato Grosso: A Story that Continues

With Technology and Artificial Intelligence, the Salesians Preserve Indigenous Languages in Mato Grosso

(ANS – Campo Grande) – The preservation of indigenous mother tongues has become a global concern. Fr. Tiago Figueiró, a Salesian and researcher on the subject, explains that the Salesians of the Campo Grande Brazil Province (BCG) have been addressing this challenge since they first began working among the Bororo indigenous people in 1895 and among the Xavante in 1957. The cultural diversity of peoples, in … Continue reading With Technology and Artificial Intelligence, the Salesians Preserve Indigenous Languages in Mato Grosso

December 18, 1859: The Humble Beginning of a Global Salesian Mission

(ANS – Rome) – December 18 is remembered throughout the Salesian world as the “birth certificate” of the Salesian Congregation. On this date in 1859, in the modest room at Valdocco, Don Bosco and a small group of 17 young collaborators freely chose to found the “Pious Society of St Francis de Sales,” giving juridical and spiritual form to a charism already alive in the … Continue reading December 18, 1859: The Humble Beginning of a Global Salesian Mission

Fr. Luca Barone is the New Procurator of Missioni Don Bosco in Turin

(ANS – Turin) – There has been a change in the presidency of Missioni Don Bosco, the Salesian Missionary Procuratorate Office based in Turin: Fr. Luca Barone, SDB, is the new person in charge of this service, following on from Fr. Daniel Antúnez, who accompanied him in recent months. Since September 2023, Fr. Barone has been at Salesian Headquarters in Rome, where he has taken on … Continue reading Fr. Luca Barone is the New Procurator of Missioni Don Bosco in Turin

Christmas Greetings from Salesian Cooperators

Dear Salesian Family, In the name of all the Salesian Cooperators of USA West, I wish to share with you news of renewed hope. Worldwide, the Association of Salesian Cooperators is about to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026 and has prepared to “relaunch” our apostolic commitment for the next 150 years. Here in our province, we have much to be thankful for in the … Continue reading Christmas Greetings from Salesian Cooperators

St. Dominic Savio Cooperators (Español) Celebrate the Season

By Giovanni Fernandez, Cooperator Candidate, Santo Domingo Savio Center A Salesian Family Posada (Bellflower, California) – On Tuesday, December 16, St. Dominic Savio Church hosted a beautiful Posada led by Anabelle Navarro. The community gathered and was reminded of what the Christmas season is all about….the coming of Jesus Christ. The children of all ages did a wonderful job in their performances. The songs were … Continue reading St. Dominic Savio Cooperators (Español) Celebrate the Season

The Lord God Among Us / El Señor Dios Entre Nosotros 

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB Advent has repeatedly confronted us with an astounding truth: the Spirit-God has deigned to take upon Himself the form of a human being. He actually did come and live among us. In Advent, the Church has placed before us a wealth of scriptural references to help us celebrate once more the fulfillment of human history’s greatest moment. The liturgy acclaims … Continue reading The Lord God Among Us / El Señor Dios Entre Nosotros 

One Month to Go Until the Salesian Family Spirituality Days 2026

(ANS – Rome) – There are now only 30 days to go until the 44th edition of the Salesian Family Spirituality Days (SFSD), scheduled to take place from January 15 to 18, 2026, at the Salesian Mother House in Valdocco, Turin. There is great anticipation for what will be the first time with the new Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, which will bring together hundreds … Continue reading One Month to Go Until the Salesian Family Spirituality Days 2026

November Highlights: Gratitude, Growth & Great Futures

By Christina Mendoza, Outreach Coordinator – (Los Angeles, CA) – November brought incredible moments to the Salesian Family Youth Center! From serving 150 members and families at our Thanksgiving celebration, to volunteers rolling up their sleeves to help beautify our space, to our youth making amazing autumn memories—there was so much to be proud of. Check out our highlights! Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Members and Their … Continue reading November Highlights: Gratitude, Growth & Great Futures

Cagliero Life Video – December 2025

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions, On the eve of 11th, the monthly remembrance of Salesian missions, we are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of December linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion, and sharing within the various youth groups. It is linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for … Continue reading Cagliero Life Video – December 2025

Designing with Purpose: An Internship That Strengthened Community

By JC Montenegro, PhD – (Los Angeles, CA) – At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we believe that real community impact in Boyle Heights happens when young professionals are given meaningful opportunities to grow while serving others. This article highlights the journey of Ingrid Rodriguez, whose internship brought creativity, discipline, and new energy to our communication work. I am grateful for her professionalism, dedication, and … Continue reading Designing with Purpose: An Internship That Strengthened Community

The Fifth “Christmas Lunch with the Poor” in Valdocco: A Feast of Sharing and Hope

(ANS – Turin) – The fifth “Christmas Lunch with the poor” and the needy took place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, starting at 12:30 pm, in the San Domenico Savio hall at the Salesian premises in Valdocco. The lunch was promoted by the Caritas – Maria Ausiliatrice volunteer group, which currently has more than 40 volunteers, twenty of whom led the initiative in question. The meeting was attended by about … Continue reading The Fifth “Christmas Lunch with the Poor” in Valdocco: A Feast of Sharing and Hope

The IUS Network Grows in 2025: Six Institutions Join, Expanding Salesian Higher Education Across Europe, Africa and East Asia

(ANS – Rome) – The IUS network continues to expand its global presence in 2025 with the incorporation of six new partners: Istituto Universitario Don Giorgio Pratesi (Italy), Istituto Universitario IPU (Italy), Scuola Superiore di Scienze dell’Educazione “San Giovanni Bosco” (Italy), Katholische Stiftungshochschule München — University of Applied Sciences (Germany), and Don Bosco Kilimanjaro International Institute of Technology (KIITEC), Arusha (Tanzania), Instituto Superior Dom Bosco in Dili (Timor-Leste). These institutions expand the … Continue reading The IUS Network Grows in 2025: Six Institutions Join, Expanding Salesian Higher Education Across Europe, Africa and East Asia

Digi Evangeli: 3rd Advent Sunday – Dec. 14, 2025 (English and Spanish)

By Fr. Shijumon Thottupurathu, SDB Reflection In English Like the farmer let’s cultivate the Joy and Happiness in the name of the Lord on this third Sunday of Advent, that our hope brings us true peace at the coming of Our Lord.Blessings. Reflection In Spanish Como el agricultor, cultivemos la Alegría y la Felicidad en el nombre del Señor en este tercer Domingo de Adviento, … Continue reading Digi Evangeli: 3rd Advent Sunday – Dec. 14, 2025 (English and Spanish)

God Is Spirit and Life / Dios es Espíritu y Vida 

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB Dios es Espíritu y Vida  Un Salmo del Antiguo Testamento, 115:4-5, disfruta mucho burlándose de dioses hechos de madera, plata u oro formados por manos humanas, que necesitan ser llevados por quienes los hicieron. No es así nuestro Dios, el verdadero Dios que es el Espíritu. Nos ha hablado, nos ha guiado, acompañado e instruido para que le hagamos una … Continue reading God Is Spirit and Life / Dios es Espíritu y Vida 

Salesian Missionary Volunteering Formation Building Relationships with the Salesian Communities that Receive Volunteers

(ANS – Rome) – In November, SMV Volunteer Coordinators, Salesians, and those engaging in volunteering participated in an online formation session to consider the topic: Building relationships with the Salesian Communities that receive volunteers. There were two different sessions – one for the Spanish language and one for the English language. The sessions were well attended and had robust discussions about this topic. In the Spanish language session, … Continue reading Salesian Missionary Volunteering Formation Building Relationships with the Salesian Communities that Receive Volunteers

Course for Newly Appointed Provincials Concludes: An Enriching and Formative Experience to Recenter on the Salesian Charismatic Identity​

(ANS – Rome) – The Orientation and Formation Course for newly appointed Salesian Provincials came to an end this morning, Wednesday, December 10, 2025. For almost two weeks, the participants shared moments of reflection, dialogue, study, and in‑depth work, but above all, growth in spirituality, fraternity, and awareness of their mission.​ Participants The course initially brought together: Fr. Domenico Saraniti, Provincial of Italy–Sicily (ISI) Fr. Vitális Gábor, Provincial of … Continue reading Course for Newly Appointed Provincials Concludes: An Enriching and Formative Experience to Recenter on the Salesian Charismatic Identity​

Great Britian – ABBA Star in Exclusive Interview with “Faith Matters”

(ANS – London) – It is not every day that a world-famous rock star dedicates an interview to a school newspaper, moreover, talking about rather unusual topics such as the relationship between music and politics. Yet that is what happened with Swedish singer-songwriter Björn Ulvaeus, from the supergroup ABBA, who features in the Christmas edition of “Faith Matters”, just published by student reporters at St John … Continue reading Great Britian – ABBA Star in Exclusive Interview with “Faith Matters”

The Christmas Grotto, Where Heaven Meets Earth

THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJOR, Fr Fabio Attard, SDB The mystery of Christmas begins with a “scandal of love”: the Great One who makes Himself little. It’s not a poetic image, but the most shocking reality in human history. God, the Infinite, chooses to become finite; the Almighty chooses the fragility of a newborn baby who cannot yet speak, walk, or defend Himself. It is pure … Continue reading The Christmas Grotto, Where Heaven Meets Earth

Letter from the Provincial: Happy Holidays

(San Francisco, California) – As we enter this blessed season of hope, the Provincial, Fr. Mel Trinidad, SDB, shares a beautiful Christmas message reflecting on how the Salesian mission is transforming young lives across our schools, youth centers, parishes, camps, and retreat programs. His letter is a heartfelt reminder of the joy, faith, and purpose we help nurture in more than 30,000 young people each … Continue reading Letter from the Provincial: Happy Holidays

Watch Our NEW Province Video: Transforming Young Lives!

(Los Angeles, California) – We’re excited to share our newest Salesian Province video—featuring our Provincial, Fr. Mel Trinidad, as the opening interview. His message sets the tone for a powerful look at how the Salesian mission continues to shape young lives today. A Mission of Faith, Joy & Service Across California and Laredo, Texas, the Salesians accompany more than 30,000 young people each year through schools, youth … Continue reading Watch Our NEW Province Video: Transforming Young Lives!

Memorial of Blessed Philip Rinaldi, SDB

Declared Venerable: January 3, 1987 Beatified: April 29, 1990 Liturgical Celebration: December 5 “The words that did me the most good was when I told him that I feared some day I would do something silly by running away. And he answered: ‘I would come and get you.’” This immediate and affectionate reply from Fr. Paul Albera, the rector of the Salesian House at Sampierdarena in … Continue reading Memorial of Blessed Philip Rinaldi, SDB

Digi Evangeli: 2nd Advent Sunday – Dec. 7, 2025 (English and Spanish)

By Fr. Shijumon Thottupurathu, SDB Reflection In English Life in the Church is to live in obedience to the Word of God. Through our repentance, we live in harmony with the creation of God. In goodness, we produce fruits that help us to hope for eternal salvation.Blessings. Reflection In Spanish El reino de Dios es un reino perfecto. Debemos esforzarnos para alcanzar esa perfección en … Continue reading Digi Evangeli: 2nd Advent Sunday – Dec. 7, 2025 (English and Spanish)

Whom Do We Await? / ¿A Quién Esperamos? 

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB When Mary visited her kinswoman Elizabeth, the full realization of all that took place back at Nazareth dawned. She truly was to be Mother of God. She burst into song, and in one of its verses she marveled, “The Mighty One has done great things for me, and Holy is His Name.” In another burst of realization she exclaimed, “He … Continue reading Whom Do We Await? / ¿A Quién Esperamos? 

Fr. Francisco Cervantes Appointed Superior of the Province of Guadalajara Mexico (MEG)

(ANS – Rome) – The work of the General Council is proceeding at full speed: during this winter’s plenary session, Fr. Fabio Attard, Rector Major of the Salesians, with the consent of the other members of the Council, designated Fr. Francisco Cervantes Huitron as the new Superior of the Christ the King and Mary Help of Christians Province of Guadalajara Mexico (MEG). Founded on August 30, … Continue reading Fr. Francisco Cervantes Appointed Superior of the Province of Guadalajara Mexico (MEG)

‘GO Beyond Traditional Education’: Project Committee on Artificial Intelligence in Salesian Schools Meets Google in Silicon Valley

(ANS – Mountain View) – A delegation of six representatives from the Steering Committee of the Italian Salesian project ‘GO Beyond Traditional Education / Gemini@Salesians,’ is in Mountain View, California, at Google’s headquarters, to discuss the responsible integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. The visit aims to strengthen the existing collaboration and present the expanding vision of this project, which puts the dignity and integral … Continue reading ‘GO Beyond Traditional Education’: Project Committee on Artificial Intelligence in Salesian Schools Meets Google in Silicon Valley

A Moment of Learning, Dialogue and Presentation of the Salesian Charism: the Rector Major Meets Journalists from Catholic Media Outlets

(ANS – Rome) – On the morning of Friday, December 5, 2025, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Fr. Fabio Attard, met with a group of journalists and media professionals responsible for communications for Catholic congregations and institutions active in Rome. The visit, organized in collaboration with the ISCOM association, the Salesians, and the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, allowed all those … Continue reading A Moment of Learning, Dialogue and Presentation of the Salesian Charism: the Rector Major Meets Journalists from Catholic Media Outlets

This Giving Tuesday – Change a Life

(San Francisco, California) – The Salesians of Don Bosco USA Western Province accompany more than 30,000 youth each year through our schools, camps, youth centers, parishes, and leadership programs. A gift today will help ensure every young person, especially the poor and most at-risk, has a safe place to learn, grow, and know they are loved. Join us and make an impact that lasts far … Continue reading This Giving Tuesday – Change a Life

Memorial Mass for Fr. Avelino Lorenzo, SDB, and Salesian Cooperators

 By Susanna Carillo, Salesian Cooperator – (Bellflower, California) – On November 23, 2025, the St. Dominic Savio community of Salesian Cooperators (Spanish-speaking)  gathered with love and gratitude to celebrate a Memorial Mass for their dear friends who now rest in God’s peace. The community honored the lives of Fr. Avelino Lorenzo, SDB, and their brother and sister Cooperators—Belia Polanco, Julio Pinchinatti, Benito Trujillo, Ana Garcia, and Mariano Morante. Family and friends … Continue reading Memorial Mass for Fr. Avelino Lorenzo, SDB, and Salesian Cooperators

“It Felt Like History:” Teens, Organizers on Cloud Nine after Live Dialogue with Pope Leo

By  Jonah McKeown, Staff Reporter, Catholic News Agency – (Indianapolis, Indiana) – At a press conference Friday following Pope Leo XIV’s historic “digital visit” with 16,000 young people at the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, leaders and young participants praised Pope Leo’s warmth, humility, authenticity, and pastoral clarity, highlighting his central message: a personal relationship with Jesus is essential. “Walking up on that stage felt like history. It … Continue reading “It Felt Like History:” Teens, Organizers on Cloud Nine after Live Dialogue with Pope Leo

Pope to Young People: There is Still Time to Dream, Plan, and Do Good

(ANS – Bkerké) – For his last event on the first full day in Lebanon, December 1, Pope Leo XIV met with young people in Bkerké, Lebanon. The event began with the testimonies of volunteers and young people, before two more asked the Holy Father questions. Then Pope Leo XIV urges them not to give into despair, rather to cultivate friendships rooted in genuine love and … Continue reading Pope to Young People: There is Still Time to Dream, Plan, and Do Good

Creating Phone-Free Spaces for Kids’ Well-Being

By JC Montenegro, PhD – (Los Angeles, California) – Every day at the Salesian Family Youth Center, I walk alongside children and young people. I see their joy, their talents, their fears, and the world they are growing up in. And one thing is increasingly obvious: cellphones have taken a central place in their lives, so central that many of them cannot imagine life without … Continue reading Creating Phone-Free Spaces for Kids’ Well-Being

National Meeting of Salesian Youth Movement Leaders in Venezuela

(Duaca, Venezuela) – November 2025 – The First National Meeting of Leaders in Oratories and Youth Centers in the Salesian Province of Venezuela (VEN) was held from November 28-30. The event, held at the Domingo Savio Youth Centre in Duaca, offered a space to strengthen the identity and mission of this Salesian youth network. Under the motto “Like the Father and Me, We are One, … Continue reading National Meeting of Salesian Youth Movement Leaders in Venezuela

Pope Leo to Young People: Technology Can Help Us Live Our Christian Faith

(ANS – Vatican City) – Over 15,000 young people met with Pope Leo XIV via video link on Friday, November 21, 2025, as they attended the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in the US city of Indianapolis. Pope Leo XIV invited young Catholics to grow in friendship with Jesus Christ, use technology healthily to deepen their faith, and avoid using political categories to speak about the … Continue reading Pope Leo to Young People: Technology Can Help Us Live Our Christian Faith

Salesian Youth Ministry at NCYC: A Journey of Faith

By Gina Robles, Salesian Youth Ministry Associate, Salesian Cooperator – (Bellflower, California) – I attended the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Indianapolis from November 19–22. Representing the Salesian Province Youth Ministry Office together with Fr. Jhoni Chamarro, SDB, from our Vocation Team, along with the Salesian Youth Ministry Office of the East and the Salesian Sisters from both the East and West, we served … Continue reading Salesian Youth Ministry at NCYC: A Journey of Faith

Fr. Bob Flickinger’s 26th Trip to El Salvador

By Larry Arellano, Salesian Past Pupil – (Bellflower, California) – On November 5, Fr. Bob Flickinger joyfully embarked on his 26th mission trip to El Salvador. The wonderful group was comprised of 11 enthusiastic volunteers from three different parishes in Michigan, along with myself, ready to make a difference together. Fr. Bob celebrated Mass for the community on Saturday night. For his homily, he warmly … Continue reading Fr. Bob Flickinger’s 26th Trip to El Salvador