(ANS – Colle Don Bosco) – On August 16, 2025, the Salesian community of Colle Don Bosco celebrated a momentous occasion with the inauguration of a 200 kWh photovoltaic plant. The date of the inauguration took on profound historical and spiritual significance, as it coincided with the 210th anniversary of the birth of St. John Bosco, which took place in this very place in 1815.

The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, in the presence of numerous participants, including civil authorities, members of the Salesian Family, young people, faithful, and friends of Don Bosco. Their participation highlighted not only a shared heritage but also a collective commitment to a more sustainable and ecologically responsible future.

This project is not only a technical achievement but also a concrete expression of the Salesian mission to care for our common home. Inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ and guided by the directives of the 28th General Chapter, the project embodies the values of ecological responsibility, social justice, and integral human development.

Welcoming the Rector Major for the blessing and official inauguration, Fr. Thathireddy Vijaya Bhaskar – former Rector of Colle Don Bosco and currently Secretary to the Rector Major – expressed his deep gratitude to all those who contributed to making this vision a reality. In particular, he acknowledged the constant support of Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, former Rector Major, and Fr. Stefano Martoglio, Vicar of the Rector Major.

Special thanks were expressed to Mr. Chris Larsen, from San Francisco, USA, the project’s principal benefactor. A philanthropist passionate about ecological causes, Mr. Larsen played a key role in bringing the initiative to fruition, demonstrating a deep commitment to caring for our common home. He is also actively involved in the development of carbon capture technologies to mitigate air pollution.

Other important supporters were also thanked, including Fr. Josh Kureethadam, Mr. Don Bosco Mullan, Mr. Eric Haar, and Don Bosco Missions – New Rochelle, Misiones Salesianas, for their generous contributions. Finally, Fr. Thathireddy expressed his gratitude for the tireless work of Fr. José Maria Sabé and Fr. Igino Biffi, the economers responsible for the implementation of the project, together with Mr. Giovanni Uliana, Fr. Giorgio de Giorgi, and the technical team, for their professionalism, precision, and constant dedication.

The photovoltaic system is of strategic importance for the Salesian mission worldwide. Not only does it represent a model of sustainable energy for other Salesian works around the world, but it is also an educational tool for the thousands of young people who visit Colle Don Bosco every year. It invites them to an ecological conversion and to adopt sustainable lifestyles as an integral part of their personal and spiritual growth.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the system also allows for a significant reduction in energy costs, contributing to the long-term economic sustainability of Colle Don Bosco. In his concluding message, the Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard emphasized how this initiative represents a prophetic step towards a more responsible and supportive future, embodying the spirit of Don Bosco in facing the challenges of our time.

“This project is not just a technical act, but a prophetic call to shared responsibility towards creation and future generations,” said Fr. Attard, inviting all those present to continue promoting concrete actions for the care of our common home.

The inauguration of this photovoltaic system is a living testimony to the Salesian Family’s ability to respond to contemporary challenges with creativity, faith, and commitment.