(ANS – Rome) – The process of reshaping Salesian Italy, begun over a year ago to respond to the demands of profound and lasting change, continues with determination. The project is not a simple organizational reorganization, but a response to the call to renew the Salesian presence in Italy, aligning it with Don Bosco’s mission and charism.
On the occasion of the CISI Presidency on July 14, the Rector Major of the Salesians, Fr. Fabio Attard, wished to take part in the working day together with the Superiors of the Italian provinces, led by the CISI President and Councillor for the Mediterranean Region, Fr. Juan Carlos Pérez Godoy.
After an initial phase of listening and spiritual discernment, the path took on an operational dimension thanks to the methodological contribution of the Emmaus Study Center. The objective is to define new models of synodal governance, capable of fostering shared responsibility and strategic vision, overcoming tensions and difficulties through a participatory and gradual approach.
The process is divided into two complementary phases: a static discernment, involving operational listening and the definition of shared strategies, and a dynamic discernment, based on experimentation, formation, and accompaniment. A broad involvement of lay people, young people, and educational communities is envisaged, with the establishment of mixed groups in each province and national thematic meetings, to ensure an inclusive and integrated reform.
The Rector Major also stressed the importance of strengthening the National Center as a charismatic and operational point of reference for the whole of Salesian Italy, promoting shared governance that values lay expertise and qualified formation. The path aims to ensure coherence, continuity, and sustainability, recognizing the essential contribution of each local reality.
The next stages involve defining the local groups and planning meetings of the National Offices to deal with the more technical aspects of the project. This reform proposes not only to improve the organizational structure, but also to strongly relaunch the Salesian mission, so that it can continue to respond effectively to contemporary challenges.