(ANS – Rome) – The “Good Night” reflection on July 16, 2026, was delivered by Fr. Hugo Orozco Sánchez, Regional Councilor for Interamerica, who shared with the Sacred Heart Salesian community his experiences during a recent visit to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Province in Mexico City (MEM).
A Complex Sociopolitical Context
In his reflection, Fr. Orozco described a complex sociopolitical landscape marked by official accusations from the United States against certain Mexican politicians suspected of collusion with criminal organizations, as well as ongoing violence related to cartel control in various parts of the country. At the same time, he pointed to encouraging signs of recovery, including increased investment in infrastructure in southern Mexico, a region that has historically faced greater economic challenges.
The World Cup and Social Challenges
Fr. Orozco also reflected on the atmosphere surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which was being hosted in Mexico City and was nearing its conclusion. He noted that, in the days leading up to the opening ceremony, several social tensions—including those involving teachers’ unions, the Mothers of the Disappeared, and transportation workers—were resolved through dialogue, allowing the tournament to proceed smoothly and creating a spirit of shared enthusiasm throughout the country.
The Centenary of the Cristero Resistance
The Regional Councilor also highlighted the Church’s commemoration of the centenary of the Cristero Resistance. In 2026, the Mexican Bishops’ Conference marked the occasion with a message honoring the memory of more than 200,000 martyrs who defended religious freedom during the 1920s.
The Situation of the Mexican Province
Fr. Orozco then described the current reality of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Province, the “mother province” of the Salesian presence in Mexico since 1892. Today, the province includes 77 Salesians serving in 15 communities and 48 works, including schools, oratories, parishes, and vocational training centers, all dedicated to the educational and evangelizing mission among young people.
A Brief Visit to Venezuela
The Regional Councilor also spoke about his brief visit to Caracas, Venezuela, for the installation of the new provincial, Fr. Jorge Gahzal. He emphasized the Congregation’s solidarity, expressed through the Don Bosco Network, with the communities affected by a devastating earthquake just a few days later.
Concluding his reflection, Fr. Orozco shared his experience of praying at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, where he celebrated Mass for the Salesian Family pilgrimage. There, he entrusted both his Mexican confreres and the Sacred Heart community to the loving intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.