(ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins Catholic organizations worldwide in observing the Catholic World Day of Peace, marked annually on January 1. Established by Pope Paul VI in 1967 and first celebrated in 1968, the day invites people everywhere to reflect on the shared responsibility of building peace.

For 2026, Pope Leo XIV has chosen the theme “Peace be with you all: Towards an ‘unarmed and disarming’ peace.” The theme calls on humanity to reject violence and war and to embrace an authentic peace rooted in love and justice.

“Salesian missionaries provide social development and educational programs to youth and families living in poverty, regardless of gender, race, or religion,” said Fr Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. “By helping young people gain education, life skills, and employment opportunities, these programs empower youth to build confidence and contribute to peaceful communities.”

To mark the Catholic World Day of Peace 2026, Salesian Missions highlights several programs that address the social and economic needs of youth and promote peaceful, supportive environments.

Central African Republic

In Bangui, Salesian missionaries equipped a medical clinic with essential supplies through a humanitarian shipment funded by Salesian Missions and Don Bosco Foundation Paris, in collaboration with Collaboration Santé Internationale of Canada.

The shipment included hospital beds, neonatal incubators, exam tables, medicines, first‑aid supplies, and vitamins. The clinic itself was completed with funding from the French government through Don Bosco Foundation Paris, with Salesian Missions supporting logistics and funding based on its global humanitarian experience.

India

In Maharashtra, Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra implemented a Solar Home Lighting initiative to address energy deprivation among migrant families, with donor funding from Salesian Missions.

The project provided 55 families with safe and reliable solar lighting, replacing unsafe and illegal power connections. Improved lighting has enhanced children’s ability to study, increased household safety, reduced energy costs, and supported small income‑generating activities.

Rwanda

At Don Bosco Muhazi Technical and Vocational School, donor funding from Salesian Missions supported 260 students through food assistance and essential supplies. Fifty students living off campus also received hygiene kits and rent support.

This assistance helped students from remote and disadvantaged backgrounds focus on their studies, reduced dropout risks, and strengthened hope and stability within the school community.

Syria

In Aleppo, Salesians supported children at two orphanages—one Armenian and one Muslim—housing 80 children aged 6–18, through donor funding from Salesian Missions.

The program provided psychosocial support, educational and recreational activities, counseling services, and essential material assistance. In a context of severe humanitarian hardship, the initiative offered children dignity, care, and a sense of belonging, regardless of religion or background.

Through these initiatives, Salesian Missions continues its commitment to fostering peace by addressing the root causes of poverty, exclusion, and inequality—especially among young people.

*All assistance provided in these countries complies with applicable laws and regulations, including those administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.