(ANS – Rome) – An online meeting of the Salesian continental networks in America was held on February 3, convened by the continental youth ministry team with the aim of initiating a process of reflection and shared work on the articulation and coordination of the networks, in line with the guidelines of General Chapter 29. Fr. Rafael Bejarano, General Councilor for Youth Ministry, was also present at the meeting.
The meeting was attended by representatives from various continental entities, including ESA (Salesian Schools of America), RASS (Salesian Social Network of America), IUS (Salesian Institutions of Higher Education), VTC (Vocational Training Centers), and the Development Workshops (OPDs), together with Salesians and lay collaborators involved in regional animation and coordination.
The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the richness and diversity of the continental networks, as well as to share lessons learned and best practices that have emerged along their respective paths. In particular, experiences marked by clear organizational criteria and stable technical teams were highlighted, as these elements strengthen continuity, collaboration, and the overall impact of the Salesian mission on the continent.
In an atmosphere of dialogue and shared responsibility, participants emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen coordination among the various realities, promoting shared processes that help serve young people more effectively, especially those who are most vulnerable. The discussion also made it possible to move toward common language and shared criteria for reflection, while respecting the identity and specificity of each network.
The meeting thus marks the beginning of a journey of discernment and joint work, aimed at offering clear and sustainable proposals in view of the joint meeting of Provincials and Pastoral Delegates scheduled for October 2026, and at continuing to strengthen the Salesian mission in America as an experience of communion, co-responsibility, and service to young people.