Formation, Salesian World News

Formation Meeting for Vice Provincials: A Week of Discussion and Sharing

(ANS – Rome – October 15, 2026) – Sixteen Salesian Vice Provincials from various regions around the world will gather for a week of formation, discussion, and sharing from October 18–24, 2026, at the Salesian Headquarters in Rome. The meeting aims to give participants an opportunity to explore key aspects of governance and leadership within the provinces through training sessions, discussions, and opportunities to share experiences.

The Participants

The following Salesians are participating in this edition of the formation meeting for Provincial Vicars:

  • Fr. Basson Joseph (AON)
  • Fr. Bustamante Juan (CIL)
  • Fr. Cardoso Raimundo Marcelo (BMA)
  • Fr. Caspa Charles (PGS)
  • Fr. Dickson William John (GBR)
  • Fr. Gołębiowski Andrzej (PLS)
  • Fr. Haelvoet Eric (BEN)
  • Fr. Hernández José Antonio (MEM)
  • Fr. Kamza Jozef (PER)
  • Fr. Kapani Deli (IND)
  • Fr. Lakra Jeevan Kishore (INS)
  • Fr. Giovanni Lo Grande (ISI)
  • Fr. Michael John Alexander (INM)
  • Fr. Sanico Arnold Bernardo (FIN)
  • Fr. Villota José Luis (SSM)
  • Fr. Woto Bope Sylvain (ACC)

The Program of Activities

The meeting will begin on Sunday, October 18, with an introduction by the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, and the Vicar of the Rector Major, Fr. Stefano Martoglio. After Vespers in the community chapel, Fr. Marek Chrzan, rector of the Sacred Heart Salesian Community, will deliver the traditional Salesian “Goodnight.”

Over the following days, the program will address various aspects of the Salesian mission and provincial organization, including pastoral ministry, missions, communication, legal and financial matters, the Salesian Family, formation, and the work of the Postulation Office for the Causes of Saints.

In particular, on Monday, October 19, participants will take part in an initial session with Fr. Fabio Attard, followed by an in-depth session with Fr. Stefano Martoglio on the role of the Vice Provincial. In the afternoon, Fr. Rafael Bejarano, General Councilor for Youth Ministry, and his team will lead a session dedicated to youth ministry, followed by an opportunity to share experiences.

Tuesday, October 20, will focus on the role of the Vice Provincial and the legal aspects of provincial governance. The morning will include a session with Fr. Stefano Martoglio and a legal discussion with Fr. Pierfausto Frisoli and Fr. Guido Garino. In the afternoon, participants will visit the Don Bosco Museum, accompanied by Fr. Nallayan, before resuming their discussions on legal matters.

Wednesday, October 21, will focus on missions and communication. The morning will feature two sessions led by Fr. Jorge Crisafulli, General Councilor for Missions, and Fr. Fidel Orendain, General Councilor for Social Communication. Legal discussions will continue in the afternoon. The day will also include a guided tour highlighting St. John Bosco’s presence in Rome.

Thursday, October 22, will be devoted to financial matters and the Salesian Family. Fr. Gabriel Stawowy, Economer General, and his team will lead the morning sessions on economic matters. In the afternoon, Fr. Joan Lluís Playà and his team will explore the theme of the Salesian Family, with time for dialogue and sharing.

On Friday, October 23, the focus will shift to formation, with two sessions led by Fr. Silvio Roggia, General Councilor for Formation. In the afternoon, participants will travel to the Bufalotta center for a meeting on the Postulation for the Causes of Saints with Fr. Gabriel Cruz, focusing on the processes of beatification and canonization.

The final day, Saturday, October 24, will be devoted to sharing the experiences gained throughout the week, summarizing the work completed, and evaluating the meeting. The closing Eucharistic celebration will be presided over by Fr. Stefano Martoglio.

This initiative is part of the ongoing accompaniment and formation program for Vice Provincials, who are called to collaborate with Provincials in the animation and governance of Salesian communities and works. It provides a special opportunity for professional development, fellowship, and discernment, supporting those responsible for governance and animation in the provinces as they seek to serve more effectively, remain faithful to the Salesian charism, and respond to the challenges of the contemporary world.