By Luis Chacon, Coordinator of the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Program –
(Los Angeles, California) –
Walking Together in Moments of Loss and Hope –
Last week, I had the opportunity to accompany the leaders of our Salesian Youth Group in Boyle Heights to the funeral Mass for Br. Jerry Weirich, SDB. Being present together was a powerful reminder that we are one Salesian family, walking side by side not only in joyful moments but also in times of sorrow. After the service, we shared a simple meal, reaffirming that we stand together in both the good and the difficult moments, even as we celebrated with faith the entrance into the Salesian paradise of a Salesian brother.
Youth Service in Action: Loyola High School Seniors
From Wednesday through Friday, I had the privilege of leading—together with Andrés—a group of nearly 20 seniors from Loyola High School who are preparing to graduate. Their impact was impressive. They served both the Salesian Family Youth Center and St. Mary’s Parish, cleaning pews and walls, organizing parish spaces, decorating the youth center, fixing storage areas, and cleaning places that had not been touched in years. One young man even repaired a broken air hockey table that had been unusable for months—using only a screwdriver and determination. They offered more than service hours; they showed genuine care for the community.
Resuming Club Don Bosco
We joyfully resumed the activities of Club Don Bosco, a safe space where adolescents and young people come together to play soccer, build friendships, and grow. Beyond the game itself, this space fosters closeness, trust, and accompaniment. Each gathering concludes with a simple moment of prayer and a formative reflection known as the Salesian Good Night, reminding us that education also touches the heart and spirit.
Girl Scouts: Fitness, Confidence, and Leadership
This Saturday, I had the opportunity to witness the beautiful work being done with our Girl Scouts group, led by Miriam Hernández, a member of our Board of Directors. On this occasion, Jana Mercado, also a board member, offered a dance fitness session where the girls learned about movement, coordination, and physical health. Through this experience, the girls earned their fitness badge, strengthening their confidence, discipline, and self-esteem.
Witnessing Growth: Johana’s Journey
This morning, I had the opportunity to take Johana to the airport so she could attend important interviews and continue moving forward in her educational journey toward college. Witnessing her growth after accompanying her over the past years fills me with great pride. Seeing young people take concrete steps toward their future confirms that consistent accompaniment truly changes lives.
A Mission Without Borders: Welcoming Marius
Finally, we are grateful for the presence of Marius, a Salesian Missionary Volunteer from Switzerland, now serving in our community of Boyle Heights. Being entrusted with the opportunity to accompany him in this mission reminds me that the Salesian mission knows no borders and that empowering youth is a shared, global commitment.
