(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian community located in the Testaccio district of Rome had the honor of welcoming the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, together with several members of the General Council, on Friday, March 20, 2026. Among those present were Fr. Silvio Roggia, Councilor for Formation; Fr. Jorge Mario Crisafulli, Councilor for the Missions; and the Regional Councilors: from the two Regions of Africa, Fr. Alphonse Owoudou (Central and West Africa) and Fr. Innocent Bizimana (East and South Africa); from the Americas, Fr. Hugo Orozco (Inter-America) and Fr. Gabriel Romero (Southern Cone of America); from South Asia, Fr. Michael Biju; from East Asia–Oceania, Fr. William Matthews; and from the Mediterranean Region, Fr. Juan Carlos Pérez Godoy—bearing witness to the worldwide nature of the Salesian Congregation.
The Testaccio community, belonging to the Mary Seat of Wisdom Vice-Province of the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS), welcomes Salesians engaged in studies at various Roman universities outside the Pontifical Salesian University. In addition, it carries out significant pastoral work for the local community through its involvement in the parish of Santa Maria Liberatrice and the adjoining oratory entrusted to its care.
The evening began with Solemn Vespers presided over by the Rector Major himself, preceded by a warm introduction to the community by the Rector, Fr. Orestes Carlinhos Fistarol. The atmosphere of prayer set the tone for the gathering, which continued with the traditional Salesian “Good Night,” again delivered by the Rector Major.
In his “Good Night,” Fr. Attard offered a reflection on the changing context of formation and religious mission. He emphasized that formation is not a static academic phase but a lifelong journey, rooted in constant openness to the Holy Spirit. He also warned against the risk of spiritual rigidity and the pursuit of a comfortable life, inviting the Salesian students to regard their studies as a gift to be placed at the service of the community rather than as a source of personal prestige. Central to his message was also the importance of spiritual accompaniment, citing the relationship between Don Bosco and St. Joseph Cafasso (patron of the Testaccio community) as a significant model.
The evening continued with a festive dinner, enlivened by musical performances by the Salesians present. Toward the end of the event, on behalf of the community, Fr. Mark Phiri delivered a speech of thanks, and the Rector Major then introduced the members of the Council to those present.
The gathering concluded with a hymn to Don Bosco, a communal prayer, and a commemorative photograph with the Rector Major and the Councilors, thus sealing a moment of joy, communion, and Salesian spirit.