(ANS – Rome, May 6, 2026) – Everything is set for the opening of the 6th World Congress of Salesian Cooperators, which will take place at the “Fraterna Domus” retreat center in Sacrofano, just outside Rome, from Thursday, May 7 through Sunday, May 10, 2026. The Congress will be guided by the theme, “Being leaven to be fruitful,” and will include the official celebration of the Association’s 150th anniversary on Saturday, May 9.
Meaning and Scope of the Congress
The World Congress represents a unique opportunity for shared discernment under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Participants will reflect on priorities and strategies to renew the apostolic mission of the Salesian Cooperators, in fidelity to the Project of Apostolic Life and in communion with the entire Salesian Family.
The event was convened by the Rector Major, Fabio Attard, and is organized by the World Council of the Association, with operational coordination led by Antonio Boccia.
Approximately 400 Salesian Cooperators will gather in Sacrofano, along with delegates from the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), representing 110 provinces across 12 regions worldwide.
Activities and Future Outlook
The Congress builds on a three-year preparatory journey marking the Association’s 150th anniversary. Participants will begin by reflecting on the Association’s history, followed by an analysis of its current reality and its role within the Salesian Family, the Church, and the broader world.
Looking ahead, the Congress will identify future challenges and establish guidelines and priorities for the next six-year term (2026–2032).
During the event, the Rector Major will also appoint the new World Coordinator of the Association of Salesian Cooperators, who will begin serving in 2026.
Resources and Preparatory Initiatives
As part of the preparation for the Congress, the World Council released the official hymn, “With the Power of Love,” produced by the South America-Caribbean Region. The song is intended to accompany the Congress, strengthen unity among regions, and express the vitality of Salesian Cooperators around the world.
A choreography created by Camila Cristina Brandão Lemes and Ana Vitória Barbosa Inácio has also been developed to accompany the anthem.
In recent days, additional preparation included the release of short videos on YouTube highlighting examples of holiness within the Association. These feature figures such as Vera Grita, Attilio Giordani, Bartolomé Blanco, and Alexandrina da Costa.
On the eve of the Congress, the World Council also gathered in St Peter’s Square to participate in the Wednesday General Audience, entrusting the Congress to the Holy Father’s blessing.
Stay Tuned
The opening ceremony on Thursday, May 7, followed by the keynote conference “150 Years, Building a Better World,” presented by Fr. Fabio Attard, will be livestreamed beginning at 11:00 a.m. (UTC+2) on the Association’s YouTube channel.
Throughout the Congress, key moments will continue to be available via livestream and on-demand viewing for Salesian Cooperators and audiences around the world.