(ANS – Porto Alegre) – The Provincial Congress of the Salesian Cooperators of Porto Alegre took place at the Casa de Encontro das Filhas de Maria Auxiliadora, on August 23-24, gathering representatives from various local centers for two days of intense community living, spirituality, reflection, and planning for the future of the Association. The Congress, led by outgoing Provincial Coordinator Rita de Cássia A. C. Fernandes, focused on evaluating the last three years, setting guidelines for the 2025-2028 triennium, and reinforcing the lay Salesians’ dedication to Don Bosco’s mission.
Key Highlights of the Congress
The event began with a warm welcome, prayers, the approval of the Congress regulations, and its official opening. Participants engaged in moments of reflection on the identity and mission of Salesian Cooperators, emphasizing their role as committed lay people in evangelization and youth education.
A keynote address by Ivo José Bassani, titled “Giving Reason for the Hope Within Us”, encouraged participants to live their faith with authenticity and courage. Other notable contributions included a reflection by Fr Renato dos Santos, Provincial Delegate for the Salesian Family, on the 150th Anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition. He highlighted the missionary zeal as a hallmark of Salesian spirituality.
Additionally, Fr Isidoro P. da Silva and the Provincial Superior offered insights into the 29th General Chapter (CG29) and the challenges facing Salesian Cooperators in today’s world.
New Council Election and Future Plans
After reviewing the 2022-2025 management report and sharing experiences among local centers, the assembly developed new guidelines for the next triennium. The Congress culminated in the election of the new Provincial Council, consisting of:
- Coordinator: Eva Marlene Tulchaski
- Formation: Luiz Marcos Schatzmann
- Communication: Graziela De Souza Gonçalves
- Secretary: Maria Clarice K. Bramorski
- Administration: Eugênio Carlos Fernandes
The spiritual dimension of the Congress was highlighted through the celebration of the Eucharist and the closing commissioning ceremony, which renewed the participants’ missionary commitment to serving youth.
Looking Ahead
The Triennial Action Plan was presented, focusing on fostering a more integrated, missionary, and synodal vision for the Association. A significant moment of enthusiasm came with the confirmation of the Porto Alegre Province’s participation in the VI World Congress of Salesian Cooperators, underlining its global communion with Don Bosco’s charism.
The Congress ended with the seamless transition between the outgoing and incoming Councils, leaving participants inspired to continue their mission with renewed vigor and dedication.
By Fr. Renato dos Santos, SDB