(ANS – Rome) – After several years of hiatus, the summer of 2025 marked the return of the Summer Camp ‘Estate Ragazzi’ program at Sacro Cuore in Rome. This initiative brought children and young people from the neighborhood together for an experience filled with fun, connection, and growth. Held from June 30 to July 11, the project involved 25 children, supported by several young volunteers from the Civil Service and others from the local community.

Fr. Renato Di Furia, in charge of the youth center and promoter of the summer camp, enthusiastically shared the details of this experience:
“It was a very simple activity, but deeply meaningful. We gave the children two weeks of joy, fun, and shared moments. It was wonderful to see the parents’ satisfaction, happy both for the revival of this activity and for the well-being of their children.”

The days were filled with games, moments of fraternity, and, above all, the joy of being together again after such a long time. A particularly meaningful moment was on the final day when the children presented a small performance for their parents. “It wasn’t a grand show, but it was very much appreciated,” added Fr. Renato. “The parents, many of whom grew up in the oratory themselves, were happy to see the space come alive again and gladly accompanied their children in this experience.”

A very significant contribution came from the Salesian Deacon Adrian Matebesi, from the Blessed Zeffirino Namuncurá community in Bufalotta, Rome, who was present throughout the entire summer camp, animating and coordinating the activities with enthusiasm and dedication. His creative guidance enabled the children to enjoy a well-organized and meaningful experience.

Additionally, the presence of other Salesians from the Casa Generalizia, who would occasionally stop by to greet the young people or have a brief chat with them, added an atmosphere of joy and familiarity, leaving a lasting impression on the children.

Even the Rector Major paid a visit during one of the days, greeting the children and expressing his closeness to the project.

A Time for Reflection and Planning for the Future

This initiative was not only an opportunity for the children to enjoy themselves but also a moment of reflection for the Sacro Cuore community. The Salesian house, which now serves as the congregation’s headquarters, is considering how to better organize and structure the activities of the oratory moving forward.

“This experience allowed us to gauge what can be done in the future,” explained Fr. Renato. “We are thinking of broader and more structured proposals that can better meet the needs of families and offer meaningful growth opportunities for young people.”

The enthusiasm of parents and the active participation of children underscored the importance of such initiatives for the local community. Estate Ragazzi at Sacro Cuore represents a fresh start, laying the groundwork for a future filled with opportunities for young people and families, while keeping alive the Salesian tradition of educating and accompanying the youngest in their journey.

A Message of Welcome

Fr. Francesco Marcoccio, the Rector of the Sacro Cuore community, expressed his joy over the success of the Summer Camp: “We are so happy that this house of Sacro Cuore is truly a home for young people. In these two weeks, we could hear and feel their joys, smiles, and laughter. They must always know that they are welcome in our home at any time. This is the heartbeat of the Salesian mission: to be a warm and welcoming presence for all young people, offering them a place where they can feel at home and grow together.”

“We’ve planted a seed,” concluded Fr. Renato, “and now we must continue to nurture it so that it can grow and bear fruit for the whole community.”