Give Thanks, Rethink, Relaunch: Towards the 150th Anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition

(ANS – Rome) – On November 11th, we remember the distant 1875 when the first missionary expedition set out! Commemorating this important event opens the celebrations for the 150th anniversary in 2025. The slogan chosen for the occasion helps us enter into this anniversary: Give thanks, Rethink, Relaunch. Give Thanks: We give thanks to God for the gift of missionary vocation, which enables the sons … Continue reading Give Thanks, Rethink, Relaunch: Towards the 150th Anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition

School Support for Refugee Children

(ANS – Beirut) – In 2024, Lebanon was showing timid signs of reviving its economy after the previous 4 years of severe economic crisis that brought disastrous consequences for Human Rights and forced more than 80% of the population into poverty. However, on October 1, the escalation of the war in the Middle East also involved Lebanon, and the intensification of violence generated an unprecedented humanitarian … Continue reading School Support for Refugee Children

Among the Ten Most Beautiful Words from Pope Francis’ New Encyclical “Dilexit Nos”

(ANS – Rome) – “Dilexit nos” is Pope Francis’ fourth Encyclical. It traces the tradition and relevance of thinking “on the human and divine love of the heart of Jesus Christ,” inviting us to renew authentic devotion to not forget the tenderness of the faith, the joy of serving others, and the fervor of the mission. Opened with a brief introduction and divided into five … Continue reading Among the Ten Most Beautiful Words from Pope Francis’ New Encyclical “Dilexit Nos”

Salesian Houses Throughout Spain Help People Affected by DANA

(ANS – Valencia) – The rains that reached the southeast of Spain, accompanied by strong winds and tornadoes, were caused by a meteorological phenomenon known as a High Altitude Isolated Depression (DANA, in Spanish). It all began last Tuesday, October 29th, when torrential rains caused the overflow of rivers and streams and a series of particularly catastrophic floods in the province of Valencia. More than 220 … Continue reading Salesian Houses Throughout Spain Help People Affected by DANA

Pope Francis: May We Be a Church on the Move, Sharing the Joy of the Gospel

(ANS – Vatican City) – At the concluding Mass of the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, Pope Francis encourages us to be like Bartimaeus in today’s Gospel and “entrust our blindness to the Lord” in order to be “a missionary Church that walks with her Lord through the streets of the world.” Marking the conclusion of the XVIth Ordinary General Assembly of the … Continue reading Pope Francis: May We Be a Church on the Move, Sharing the Joy of the Gospel

Youth Ministry in Time of War, Part III: The Gift of a Church That Suffers

(ANS – Donetsk) – The research/reflection of the Auxiliary Bishop of the Greek-Catholic Exarchate of Donetsk, Salesian Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, on what can be constructive and edifying in a destructive context such as that of war continues. In this third contribution, the Salesian prelate identifies the proximity of a Church united to her flock in the difficult time of trial. With the people, the Church … Continue reading Youth Ministry in Time of War, Part III: The Gift of a Church That Suffers

When Turning 18 is No Celebration: Life After Being at Home with the Family

(ANS – Rome) – A driver’s license, the first voter’s card, an important journey, and many dreams to be fulfilled. These are the first things that come to mind when one thinks of turning 18, a milestone in life that is more like a departure, given the taste of autonomy and independence it has always carried. Yet, turning 18 is not always a celebration. For … Continue reading When Turning 18 is No Celebration: Life After Being at Home with the Family

‘He Loved Us’: Pope Francis’ New Encyclical on the Sacred Heart of Jesus

(ANS – Vatican City) – “Dilexit nos,” Pope Francis’ fourth Encyclical, retraces the tradition and relevance of thought on “the human and divine love of the heart of Jesus Christ,” calling for a renewal of authentic devotion to avoid forgetting the tenderness of faith, the joy of serving, and the fervour of mission. “‘He loved us’, Saint Paul says of Christ (cf. Rom 8:37), in order … Continue reading ‘He Loved Us’: Pope Francis’ New Encyclical on the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Youth Ministry in Time of War, Part II: The Gift of a Broken Daily Life and a People in Suffering

(ANS – Donetsk) – In the second stage of his reflection on the special features of Youth Ministry in time of war, Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, Auxiliary Bishop of the Greek-Catholic Exarchate of Donetsk, Ukraine, presents another “gift” to be discovered: that of a broken daily life and a suffering people, made of reasons to live and not only to survive. Below is his analysis, which was delivered to Note di Pastorale Giovanile. … Continue reading Youth Ministry in Time of War, Part II: The Gift of a Broken Daily Life and a People in Suffering

DBGYFF 2024 Grand Finale: Celebrating Global Talent and Youth Visionaries

(ANS – New York) – The highly anticipated Grand Finale of the 3rd Edition of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) unfolded with grandeur and global significance on October 18, 2024, at the Loreto Theatre, Sheen Center in New York City. This vibrant event marked the culmination of a transformative short film festival that brought together young filmmakers, international dignitaries, and audiences from around … Continue reading DBGYFF 2024 Grand Finale: Celebrating Global Talent and Youth Visionaries

An Indigenous Minority and Climate Justice through the Lens of DBGYFF

(ANS – Cebu) – The Commission on Social Communications hosted the screening of the best films from the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival Season 3. The festival ran with the theme of “I have a Dream: Youth and Climate Change.” Four films from the Philippine South Province were shortlisted for awards. The highlight of the second day of screening is the documentary of the Badjao Tribe living in Cebu City “Badjao: Kinabuhi … Continue reading An Indigenous Minority and Climate Justice through the Lens of DBGYFF

The Gifts of Youth Ministry in Time of War, Part I: Over to Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, SDB

(ANS – Donetsk) – Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, Salesian of Don Bosco, born in the first Ukrainian Salesian parish of Lviv and now Auxiliary Bishop of the Greek-Catholic Exarchate of Donetsk, Ukraine, offered the magazine Note di Pastorale Giovanile Magazine his reflection on the special features of Youth Ministry in time of war. It is an interpretation coming from the perspective of the “gift,” and at the same time, it constitutes … Continue reading The Gifts of Youth Ministry in Time of War, Part I: Over to Bishop Maksym Ryabukha, SDB

Inspiring Youth Engagement at the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival 2024

(ANS – Los Angeles) – On October 16, 2024, the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) brought a powerful wave of inspiration and reflection to St. Dominic Savio Church in Bellflower, USA. This year’s festival was a vibrant example of how storytelling and film can unite young minds and ignite meaningful change in the world. The event, organized by JC Montenegro and Justin Palacios, welcomed … Continue reading Inspiring Youth Engagement at the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival 2024

Updates on the “Ratio”

(ANS – Rome) – A group of 14 Salesians will meet at Salesian Headquarters in Rome from October 18 to November 3, 2024, to work on the draft of the Ratio. The group consists of representatives from each of the regions, the Pontifical Salesian University and the members of the Formation Sector. The improved text will be presented to the new Rector Major during General Chapter 29, who will decide how and when to … Continue reading Updates on the “Ratio”

Sustainability and Communication: Developing a Network for the Future of Salesian Social Works

(ANS) – One of the strategic objectives of the Salesian Social America Network (RASS) is to promote effective communication of social works, which leads to the visibility of Salesian action and raises society’s awareness of the reduction of social inequalities. For this reason, RASS is committed to promoting networking with the Communication Sector of the Salesian Congregation and is in close contact with Fr Ricardo Campoli, Salesian Social … Continue reading Sustainability and Communication: Developing a Network for the Future of Salesian Social Works

Empowering Young People to Craft Stories on Screen

(ANS – Naigaon) – A robust filmmaking course was initiated at Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Naigaon (East), Palghar District, Maharashtra, India. About 25 students from grades 8 – 12 enrolled in the program. Father Joaquim Fernandes SDB, Vice Principal of Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Naigaon East, conducted the Film Making Course and was assisted by Teacher-Mentor Gail Fernandes. The course was … Continue reading Empowering Young People to Craft Stories on Screen

International Salesian Communication Coordinators Meet to Discuss Digital Communication and Charismatic Responsibility

(ANS) – Fr. Gildasio Mendes, Councillor General for Social Communications, led a virtual meeting of International Salesian Social Communication Coordinators, where participants discussed progress, future plans, and initiatives to enhance the Salesians’ digital communication strategies. The meeting focused on upcoming events of global and regional importance, news and updates from regional coordinators, and the use of communication technology and skills for social transformation. The coordinators … Continue reading International Salesian Communication Coordinators Meet to Discuss Digital Communication and Charismatic Responsibility

Igniting Change: The Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival Celebrates Youth Creativity and Environmental Advocacy

(ANS – Rome) – The Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) is a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to discovering and nurturing the creative talents of young filmmakers from around the globe. Organized by the Salesians of Don Bosco, the festival aims to inspire and empower youth in the field of media while promoting social responsibility. It provides an exceptional platform for young filmmakers to showcase their … Continue reading Igniting Change: The Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival Celebrates Youth Creativity and Environmental Advocacy

Builders of Ecumenical and Interreligious Dialogue

(ANS – Rome) – Dialogue is a uniquely human activity and a crucial human characteristic where individuals or groups exchange opinions, thoughts, or points of view, consider different options, and even reflect on their beliefs, opinions, values, or biases. Dialogue is essential for mutual understanding, appreciation, and respect among individuals and groups, and it facilitates collaboration and decision-making. With a fundamental attitude of openness, dialogue … Continue reading Builders of Ecumenical and Interreligious Dialogue

Young Syrians: Talent, Difficulties and Hope in a War-torn Land

(ANS – Damascus) – In a country devastated by years of war, young Syrians stand as symbols of resilience and hope. Despite the countless difficulties that surround them, they show a surprising skill and intelligence that distinguishes them, an ability to face daily challenges with determination and a spirit of sacrifice. Syria, with its destroyed political and social landscape, may seem a place where the future … Continue reading Young Syrians: Talent, Difficulties and Hope in a War-torn Land

A New Report Sheds Light on the Situation of Girls in the World

(ANS – Rome) Tomorrow [today], October 11, marks the World Day of Girls and Young Women, proclaimed by the UN in 2012. Around this time, the  “Terre des Hommes” NGO published a new report on the living conditions of minors on various continents. Since 2015, the female school population in the world has increased by 50 million, and the school completion rate of girls has improved. However, the number of … Continue reading A New Report Sheds Light on the Situation of Girls in the World

Salesians with Children and Young People Towards a Sustainable Environmental Mentality

(ANS – Buenos Aires) – The Salesian Blessed Ceferino Namuncurá Province of South Argentina (ARS) has recently presented a summary of ‘Our Common Home: with children and young people towards a sustainable environmental mentality’, a project to raise awareness and commit to concrete actions for the care of the environment that the Province has implemented in eight Salesian houses, with the help of the Swiss Salesian … Continue reading Salesians with Children and Young People Towards a Sustainable Environmental Mentality

Cagliero Video – October 2024: SHARING

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions,  We are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of October linked to the monthly Salesian intention to be used as a tool for animation, discussion, and sharing within the various youth groups. You can watch the video on YouTube or by clicking the button below. This month, the topic is SHARING.We can say that Don Bosco was … Continue reading Cagliero Video – October 2024: SHARING

INT’L DAY OF THE GIRL: Salesian Missions Highlights Education and Social Programs for Girls

(ANS – New Rochelle) – “Salesian Missions,” the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and countries around the globe in honoring International Day of the Girl on Oct. 11. The day, first held in 2012, was established to promote equal treatment and opportunities for girls. It is an acknowledgment by the world that there is a disparity in the way … Continue reading INT’L DAY OF THE GIRL: Salesian Missions Highlights Education and Social Programs for Girls

Card. López Romero, SDB, on the Synod: The Church Will Emerge More Catholic

(ANS – Vatican City) – Spanish Salesian Cardinal Cristóbal Lopez Romero, Archbishop of Rabat, Morocco, currently in the Vatican as a member of the second session of the Synod on Synodality, representing the Episcopal Conference of North Africa, spoke on Friday, October 4, 2024, at the second press briefing held in the renovated Vatican Press Room, addressing the current synod. Asked about the German synod, with … Continue reading Card. López Romero, SDB, on the Synod: The Church Will Emerge More Catholic

The Confederation of Don Bosco Past Pupils Embraces the Future and Revitalizes its Mission Among Young People

(ANS – Turin) – On October 5, 2024, the fourth day of their extraordinary general assembly, the 200 delegates of the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Don Bosco Past Pupils Association, visited the places associated with Don Bosco on Saturday. They visited Chieri and Colle Don Bosco from where Don Bosco himself had envisioned the future. On the last day, the elections for the new office … Continue reading The Confederation of Don Bosco Past Pupils Embraces the Future and Revitalizes its Mission Among Young People

Countries That Take in the Largest Number of Refugees

(ANS – Rome) -The whole world suffers from wars, poverty and violence and continues to confront and divide on the issue of migration, often forgetting that behind the words “migrants” and “refugees” there are stories of men, women and children. The UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, documented that last year, there were 110 million people forced to flee globally, 1.6 million more than at the … Continue reading Countries That Take in the Largest Number of Refugees

Pope Francis Calls the Church to Pray and Fast for Peace

(Vatican City, Italy)– On Monday, October 7, the one-year anniversary of the the Hamas-Israel war, Pope Francis calls the Church to pray and fast for peace. “In this dramatic hour of our history,” the Pope said, “while the winds of war and the fires of violence continue to devastate entire peoples and nations,” the Christian community is reminded of its call to “put itself at … Continue reading Pope Francis Calls the Church to Pray and Fast for Peace

The Message of the Vicar: Our Annual Gift

Don Stefano Martoglio, SDB Traditionally as a Salesian Family, we receive the Strenna every year – a gift at the beginning of the year. I hold it dear to look inside this gift with these few lines so as to welcome it as it deserves, without losing anything of the freshness of the gift. A gift  It is a gift because, before all else, strenna means: … Continue reading The Message of the Vicar: Our Annual Gift

Holy Land – The Christian Community After a Year of War

(ANS – Jerusalem) – A year after the beginning of the conflict, the small Christian community in Gaza, which has seen its numbers halved, continues to face enormous challenges in the midst of violence that does not want to stop. In recent months, many people have sought refuge in churches, which have tragically become targets themselves. At the beginning of the war, an attack caused damage to an … Continue reading Holy Land – The Christian Community After a Year of War

Happy Feast of St. Francis of Assisi

Agenzia Info Salesiana – ANS (Facebook Page) Today we commemorate St Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved saints. Commemorated on 4 October, for 800 years St Francis of Assisi has been a beacon for the Church because of his full adherence to the gospel that gave him the name ‘alter Christus’, his choice of poverty to meet the Lord, his love for God … Continue reading Happy Feast of St. Francis of Assisi

The Youth Ministry Sector Publishes the Final Document of the Salesian Youth Synod

(ANS – Rome) – In Valdocco and Colle Don Bosco, where so much Salesian history and fidelity has passed, the Salesian Youth Synod studied a proposal for the entire Salesian world. This was done by 375 people, mostly young people belonging to 94 nationalities, boys and girls of an average age of 23, from many nations, with different cultures and languages, but all with the same … Continue reading The Youth Ministry Sector Publishes the Final Document of the Salesian Youth Synod

Cagliero 11 – October 2024

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions, IN THIS ISSUE… Greetings from Adam Rudin, Salesian Lay Missioners director, New Rochelle, USA; “Builders of Ecumenic and Interreligious Dialogue”, by Fr. Alfred Maravilla SDB, General Councillor for the Missions (BUILDERS OF DIALOGUE is the theme of the 2024 Salesian Mission Day);The interview with Fr. Rafael Bejarano Rivera SDB, Youth Ministry Sector; Forum on major refugee-hosting countries; The monthly prayer intention for a shared mission, particularly in Colombia. … Continue reading Cagliero 11 – October 2024

Sent Out Throughout the World: The 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition Has Left

(ANS – Turin) – “This moment of faith is a very great moment: the prayer of this assembly gathered here is a celebration of God’s action and of gratitude for the Spirit’s action in your hearts, brothers and sisters, for your vocation, among those of the Salesian Family and of the Church.” The homily at the Mass of the 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition began with these … Continue reading Sent Out Throughout the World: The 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition Has Left

Lebanon – Salesians in the Context of War

(ANS – Beirut) – To understand the current situation of the Salesians in Lebanon, a previous, albeit summary presentation of the current socio-political and military situation in the country is essential. The communique sent by the Salesian community in Lebanon. Since 8 October 2023, in the aftermath of the sudden and brutal attack by Hamas on Israel, starting from the Gaza Strip, and the violent reaction … Continue reading Lebanon – Salesians in the Context of War

Carlo Gastini Returns to Valdocco

(ANS – Turin) – One of the first boys in Valdocco, Carlo Gastini, became homeless after losing both parents and ended up living on the streets with his younger sister. When Don Bosco encountered Carlo, he promptly invited him to stay at Valdocco. Many recall the story of the time Don Bosco visited the barber shop and insisted that the young boy shave his face for … Continue reading Carlo Gastini Returns to Valdocco

Final Preparations by Members of the 155th Missionary Expedition

(Turin, Italy – September 2024) – The members of the 155th missionary expedition have reached their final preparations before the missionary send-off on 29 September in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians. On Saturday, at sunset, they will receive the final transfer letter to their new Province with effect from 29 September. After dinner on 28 September they will have a meeting with the … Continue reading Final Preparations by Members of the 155th Missionary Expedition

The 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition: Meet Krešo M. Gabričević, Being Sent to the Vice-Province of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (PGS)

(ANS – Rome) – Today, we continue to listen to the voices of the new missionaries belonging to the 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition, who, on Sunday, September 29, will receive the missionary cross from the Vicar of the Rector Major, Fr Stefano Martoglio. With us today is Krešo Gabričević, who will leave Croatia for Oceania, specifically Papua New Guinea. Hi Krešo! Could you please introduce yourself? … Continue reading The 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition: Meet Krešo M. Gabričević, Being Sent to the Vice-Province of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (PGS)

The President of “Salesians for Social APS” at the Continental Meeting of Salesian Works and Social Services of America

(ANS – Aparecida) – Fr Francesco Preite, President of Salesians for Social, participated in the Continental Meeting of Salesian Works and Social Services of America, organized by the Salesian Social America Network (RASS) and the Salesian Network of Brazil (RSB) from September 9-13 in Aparecida, Brazil. “Salesians for Social” was the only Italian entity to participate with Andrea Farina, Head of the Congregation for Safeguarding of … Continue reading The President of “Salesians for Social APS” at the Continental Meeting of Salesian Works and Social Services of America

More than 9,700 Haitian Refugees Improve their Nutrition through Rise Against Hunger Meals

(ANS – Jarabacoa) – More than 9,700 Haitian refugees and their families, who fled their home country due to the ongoing political crises and settled in the community of Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic, have received meals to support their nutritional needs. The meals were provided through a partnership between Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger, and Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of … Continue reading More than 9,700 Haitian Refugees Improve their Nutrition through Rise Against Hunger Meals

The Congregation’s Journey to the 29th General Chapter

(ANS – Rome) – On September 24, 2023, in a gesture of profound significance for the Salesian Congregation, the 10th Successor of Don Bosco, Ángel Fernández Artime, officially convened the 29th General Chapter (GC29). This extraordinary event, which will be held from February 16 to April 12, 2025, aims to explore the theme “Passionate about Jesus Christ, dedicated to young people” and sets itself the ambitious … Continue reading The Congregation’s Journey to the 29th General Chapter

A Global Showcase of Young Filmmakers: DBGYFF for a Greener Future

(ANS – Rome) – In a month’s time, the much awaited Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) will once again take center stage, uniting young filmmakers, educators, and communities from around the globe. Scheduled for October 17-18, 2024, this film festival will focus on youth engagement and environmental preservation, with screenings hosted in hundreds of locations and countries worldwide. The grand finale will occur on … Continue reading A Global Showcase of Young Filmmakers: DBGYFF for a Greener Future

Cagliero Video – September 2024: EARTH

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions,  We are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of September, linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion and sharing  within the various youth groups.  You can watch the video on Youtube or download it in the shared folder, just clicking on the button below. This month the topic is the EARTH: What can I … Continue reading Cagliero Video – September 2024: EARTH

The Proposals of the General Councillor for Youth Ministry to Educate the Gaze of Educators in the Current Global Context

(ANS – Aparecida) – As part of the Continental Meeting of Salesian Works and Social Services of America (9-13 September 2024), the General Councillor for Youth Ministry, Fr Miguel Angel García Morcuende, held a conference on the reality of youth in the world, entitled: “The universe of young people: a photographic report.” A long question-and-answer session followed with the 120 participants in the meeting. The study … Continue reading The Proposals of the General Councillor for Youth Ministry to Educate the Gaze of Educators in the Current Global Context

More than 765 Million People Around the World Cannot Read: the Salesians’ Commitment to Better Literacy

(ANS – Rome) – Just a few days ago, on September 8, International Literacy Day was celebrated, a date that highlights, among other things, an alarming fact: more than 765 million people around the world cannot read and write. As reported in an article by Misiones Salesianas, Salesian missionaries around the world are at the forefront of education and more than 2.3 million children and young people receive education and find … Continue reading More than 765 Million People Around the World Cannot Read: the Salesians’ Commitment to Better Literacy

Bro. Dominic Duc Nam Nguyen’s Message for the Past Pupils Extraordinary World Assembly

(ANS – Rome) – With just over two weeks to go until the Extraordinary World Assembly of Past Pupils, scheduled for 2-6 October at the Salesian Mother House in Valdocco, Turin, the World Delegate for the Past Pupils of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Salesian Brother Dominic Duc Nam Nguyen, has sent them a brief video-message. Recalling that this year we celebrate the Bicentenary of  Don … Continue reading Bro. Dominic Duc Nam Nguyen’s Message for the Past Pupils Extraordinary World Assembly

Pope Francis: “Thanks to the Disposition of Your People and Your Faith, You Have Transformed Pain into Joy”

(ANS – Dili, Timor-Leste) – On Monday, September 9th, Pope Francis arrived in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, where he will remain until September 11th. The Pontiff was welcomed to the presidential palace in Dili by the Head of State, one of the architects of independence and 1996 Nobel Peace Prize winner José Manuel Ramos-Horta. The two, after listening to the hymns and after three children … Continue reading Pope Francis: “Thanks to the Disposition of Your People and Your Faith, You Have Transformed Pain into Joy”

Father Ernest Coppo and the Founding of the Salesian New Rochelle Province

(New Rochelle, New York) – What developed into the New Rochelle Province of the Salesians of Don Bosco, an international congregation of priests and brothers present now in more than 130 countries, began when three Salesian missionaries arrived in New York City in November 1898. Canonically established in January 1902, the province at first included all the works in the United States. In 1926, another … Continue reading Father Ernest Coppo and the Founding of the Salesian New Rochelle Province

Conclusion of the 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians: Strengthening the Bonds of Faith

(ANS – Fatima) – The 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians bringing together more than 1,300 participants from over 44 countries, including priests and lay people, has come to an end. It was an important moment of reflection, which highlighted the universality of Marian devotion and the importance of Mary in the life of the Salesian Family. The diversity of the participants was one of the most important points of this … Continue reading Conclusion of the 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians: Strengthening the Bonds of Faith

Past Pupil Ewoud Vromant Shines at the Paris 2024 Paralympics and Delivers Message of Hope: “There is a Solution to Each Problem”

(ANS – Paris) – Another result of Salesian education on the Paris 2024 Paralympic podiums: Ewoud Vromant, a past pupils from the Don Bosco school in Ghent, Belgium, one leg amputated, participated in the Paris Paralympics in cycling competitions and has already won two silver medals, in the C2 men’s time trial and in the C2 men’s chase. Not to mention that next Saturday, 7 September, … Continue reading Past Pupil Ewoud Vromant Shines at the Paris 2024 Paralympics and Delivers Message of Hope: “There is a Solution to Each Problem”

A Smile at Dawn

By Fr. Bruno Ferrero | August 27, 2024 | Salesian Bulletin Online A touching testimony by Raoul Follereau. He was in a leper colony on a Pacific island. A nightmare of horror. Nothing but walking corpses, despair, rage, sores and horrific mutilation. Yet in the midst of such devastation, one sick old man retained surprisingly bright and smiling eyes. He was suffering in body, like … Continue reading A Smile at Dawn

Cagliero 11 – September 2024

IN THIS ISSUE  – Greetings from Fr. Stefano Martoglio SDB;– The members of the 155th Salesian Missionary Expedition;“– The interview with Fr. Francis Alencherry on Salesian mission in Bangladesh;– The monthly  prayer intention for the cry of the Earth: for the poor and exploited of Bangladesh and for the – sustainment of the Salesians working for them. Enjoy the reading! Mr. Marco Fulgaro and Fr. Pavel Ženísek, SDB Salesian Missions Sector For … Continue reading Cagliero 11 – September 2024

All is Ready for the 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians in Fatima

(ANS – Fatima) – The 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians will be held in Fatima, Portugal, from August 29 to September 1, 2024. The theme chosen for this edition of the congress, “I will give you a Teacher,” is a clear reference to the Dream at Nine Years of Age, whose Bicentennial the Salesian Family is celebrating this year. The goal of this … Continue reading All is Ready for the 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians in Fatima

The Mesoamerican University Celebrates the 200th Anniversary of Don Bosco’s Dream with a Film Produced by Students

(Quetzaltenango, Guatemala) – The Mesoamerican University, headquarters of Quetzaltenango, presented the short film “Don Bosco’s Dream,” which celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Dream at Nine Years of Age. The students from the seventh semester of the Degree Course in Audiovisual Production, together with their professors, carried out the audiovisual production with the support of very young actors from the San Juan Bosco School in Quetzaltenango. The short film, … Continue reading The Mesoamerican University Celebrates the 200th Anniversary of Don Bosco’s Dream with a Film Produced by Students

From Dreams to Jungle: A Spiritual and Cultural Journey in the Unknown Kuyuntsa

(ANS – Kuyuntsa) – Several decades ago, young Salesian missionary Luis (Luigi) Bolla left his life in Italy, driven by an inner voice that called him to explore lands unknown to him, but known to God. “You will have to walk a long way, carrying my Word,” said the mysterious character who would change the course of his life. A discovery changed everything Initially stationed in … Continue reading From Dreams to Jungle: A Spiritual and Cultural Journey in the Unknown Kuyuntsa

Cagliero Video August 2024: POLITICS

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions, We are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of August linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion, and sharing within the various youth groups.  You can watch the video on YouTube or download it in the shared folder, just clicking on the button below. This month the topic is POLITICS: What can I do to be … Continue reading Cagliero Video August 2024: POLITICS

Isaac Kimeli, Past Pupil of Don Bosco, Olympic Athlete Finalist: “My Past Has Made Me Who I Am Today”

(ANS – Hal) – Belgian athlete Isaac Kimeli has competed in two Olympic finals in Paris: the 5,000 and 10,000 meters. In the first, he ranked eighth, in 13’18″10. Isaac arrived in Belgium at the age of 15 and was welcomed by the Salesians in Hal, near Brussels. In an interview with Don Bosco Magazine, he reviewed his career and his time at the Salesian school. Where does your strength of mind and character come from? … Continue reading Isaac Kimeli, Past Pupil of Don Bosco, Olympic Athlete Finalist: “My Past Has Made Me Who I Am Today”

Communication from Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime Regarding the End of His Mandate as Rector Major

(ANS – Rome) – ‘Since the time set by the aforementioned decree has come to an end, as of today I cease to hold the office of Rector Major of the Society of St Francis de Sales’. In a short communiqué, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime declares that as of today, August 16, 2024, his mandate as Rector Major comes to an end.  At the same time, … Continue reading Communication from Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime Regarding the End of His Mandate as Rector Major

Farewell to the Rector Major: Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime Steps Down and His Vicar Fr Stefano Martoglio Assumes Charge

(ANS – Colle Don Bosco) – On August 16, 2024, the Salesian Family witnessed a momentous event as Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the 10th successor of Don Bosco, keeping in mind the decree and the stipulated time offered by the Holy See, resigned as Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, while his vicar Fr Stefano Martoglio took charge ad interim of the governance of the Salesian … Continue reading Farewell to the Rector Major: Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime Steps Down and His Vicar Fr Stefano Martoglio Assumes Charge

Synod Youth Forum – A Dialogue with Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime

(ANS – Colle Don Bosco) – In a deeply moving session at the Salesian Youth Synod, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major, engaged in an intimate and insightful dialogue with young delegates from around the world, offering wisdom and guidance rooted in his own life experiences. Six delegates, representing different regions of the world, joined Cardinal Ángel on stage, reading questions that had been thoughtfully … Continue reading Synod Youth Forum – A Dialogue with Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime

A Pergola of Roses (1847)

Written by St. John Bosco | August 6, 2024 – Salesian Bulletin Online Don Bosco’s dreams are gifts from on high to guide, warn, correct, encourage. Some of them were set down in writing and have been preserved. One of these – made at the beginning of the saint’s mission – is the dream about the pergola of roses, which he had in 1847. We … Continue reading A Pergola of Roses (1847)

Day 3 of the Salesian Youth Synod: Reflecting on Dreams, Discovering Purpose

(ANS – Colle Don Bosco) – The third day of the Salesian Youth Synod was filled with interesting activities that left the young people bubbling with energy and enthusiasm. The group activities, the assembly, the magic show and the sharing made the day memorable and fruitful.   After the holy mass, the first session of the Salesian Youth Synod began with an assembly in the newly erected … Continue reading Day 3 of the Salesian Youth Synod: Reflecting on Dreams, Discovering Purpose

Helping the Poor and Marginalized to Help Themselves

(ANS – Rome) – In today’s world, an increasingly active and incisive role is played by the organisations of the so-called Third Sector (considering governments and businesses as the first two). And it is precisely on the non-governmental organisations that the missionary reflection of Fr Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for Salesian Missions, focuses this August, with the aim of fostering awareness of these organisations and networking … Continue reading Helping the Poor and Marginalized to Help Themselves

Jesus and We Insist

By Fr. Ed Lipton, SDB St. John’s Gospel, Jn 6, led off with one of the seven great signs used by John to repeat the teachings of Jesus. He now reaches a critical point where Jesus said, “I am the living bread WHO descended from heaven. If anyone EATS from this bread, he shall live in eternity. And the bread that I will give is MY Flesh for … Continue reading Jesus and We Insist

Salesian Youth Synod: Boys and Girls From All Over the World Begin to Converge on Salesian Sites

(ANS – Rome) – Everything is now ready for the start of the long awaited Salesian Youth Synod (SYS, in English), the large gathering of boys and girls from the Salesian Youth Movement promoted by the Salesian Youth Ministry to celebrate the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s Nine Year Dream and to imagine, together with its protagonists – the young people – the Salesian educational and evangelizing … Continue reading Salesian Youth Synod: Boys and Girls From All Over the World Begin to Converge on Salesian Sites

Salesians: Bearers of Hope to a Suffering People

(ANS – Anisakan) – The Salesian Congregation’s General Councillor for the Missions, Fr Alfred Maravilla, has been on a Mission Animation Visit to the Mary Help of Christians Vice-Province of Myanmar (MYM) from Saturday 3 to Wednesday 7 August 2024. “I came above all to concretely express the closeness of the Rector Major and the General Council to the confreres who are experiencing a very difficult … Continue reading Salesians: Bearers of Hope to a Suffering People

Strenna 2025 Theme Presented: “Anchored in Hope, Pilgrims with Young People”

(ANS – Rome) – At the end of the General Council’s summer plenary session, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, announced the theme of the Strenna for 2025, which will be entitled: “Anchored in hope, pilgrims with young people.” The theme was chosen in collaboration between the Rector Major of the Congregation, Card. Á.F. Artime, and his Vicar, Fr Stefano Martoglio, who will take … Continue reading Strenna 2025 Theme Presented: “Anchored in Hope, Pilgrims with Young People”

“World Day Against Trafficking in Persons”: Salesian Programs Combat Trafficking Through Education

(ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and countries around the globe in recognizing World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. In 2013, United Nations member states adopted a resolution that designated July 30 as the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. The day aims to raise awareness about the victims of human trafficking and promote and protect their … Continue reading “World Day Against Trafficking in Persons”: Salesian Programs Combat Trafficking Through Education

World Conference on Social Communication “Shaping Tomorrow”: Meaning and Objectives

(ANS – Rome) – The 2024 Communication Conference, entitled “Shaping Tomorrow,” will take place from August 1-7, 2024, at the facilities of the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) in Rome. It is an initiative of the Communication Sector of the Salesian Congregation and the Faculty of Social Communication Sciences at the UPS. The Communicative and Institutional ContextDigital and artificial intelligence is present in all media, on the … Continue reading World Conference on Social Communication “Shaping Tomorrow”: Meaning and Objectives

Correcting “Rebellious Children” with St. Francis de Sales

By P. Wirth MORAND from the Salesian Bulletin Online In September 1594, Francis de Sales, provost of the cathedral, arrived, accompanied by his cousin, at Thonon in the Chablais, a province located south of Lake Geneva and close to Geneva, to explore the territory with the aim of possibly reconquering that province, which had been Protestant for sixty years, to Catholicism. Thus began an acute phase of … Continue reading Correcting “Rebellious Children” with St. Francis de Sales

Dreaming of a Network for a Church that Welcomes, Protects, Promotes, and Integrates Migrants and Refugees

(ANS – Bogotá) – The Salesian Social America Network (RASS), together with the San Pedro Claver Province of Bogotá, joined the Latin American and Caribbean Clamor Network and the Clamor Networks of Venezuela, Colombia, and Panama to journey together and learn about the reality faced by thousands of migrants and refugees each year, identify their needs, their dreams, their challenges, and their stories. A “Living Workshop … Continue reading Dreaming of a Network for a Church that Welcomes, Protects, Promotes, and Integrates Migrants and Refugees

The Message of the Vicar: On Wings of Hope

By Father Stefano Martoglio, SDB While continuing my service as Vicar in the coming months, quietly, very simply, and completely in continuity, I’ll replace the Rector Major in leading the Congregation to the General Chapter, the 29th, in February 2025. Dear Readers of the Salesian Bulletin, I’m about to write these lines with trepidation because, having been a reader of the Salesian Bulletin since I … Continue reading The Message of the Vicar: On Wings of Hope

The Annual Retreat in the Life of Don Bosco and the Beginnings of the Salesian Society

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian annual retreat is something precious and during this time of the year many Salesians are doing their annual retreat. It is also good to go back to our origins and reclaim its value and what was lost along the way. From 1842 to 1872 (32 years), Don Bosco would walk for 7 hours from Turin to Saint Ignatius at Lanzo to do his annual spiritual exercises. This was a practice he learned at the Convitto with Fr. Cafasso. … Continue reading The Annual Retreat in the Life of Don Bosco and the Beginnings of the Salesian Society

Salesian Camps Serve Over 900 Children and Youth in Los Angeles This Summer

By JC Montenegro, Ph.D (ANS – Los Angeles, California) – This summer, Salesian Camps are significantly impacting Los Angeles by serving over 900 children and youth through two vibrant programs run by the Salesian Family Youth Center and St. Dominic Savio Church. These programs share a standard structure, empowering around 300 young volunteers—mostly teenagers—to serve approximately 600 children. Transformative Success Stories At the counselor level, young people … Continue reading Salesian Camps Serve Over 900 Children and Youth in Los Angeles This Summer

Don Bosco Youth Net Launches New App for Animators and Educators

(ANS – Heverlee) – “Don Bosco Youth-Net ivzw,” the European network of Salesian youth organizations, in partnership with Bosco Base, the Salesian Youth organization in Flanders (BEN) is launching “Animakit,” their new app for Games and Tools for animators. After more than two years of brainstorming and hard work, Animakit is now available on both the AppStore (iOS) and the PlayStore (Android). Thought as a toolkit for Salesian animators, … Continue reading Don Bosco Youth Net Launches New App for Animators and Educators

Don Bosco’s Educational Journey (4/4)

By Redaktor Strony / June 14, 2024 / Salesian Bulletin Online – (Continued from previous article) The Market for Young Workers The historical time in which Don Bosco lived was not one of the happiest. In the neighborhoods of Turin, the saintly educator discovered a real “market for young workers”: the city was becoming more and more full of inhumanly exploited minors. Don Bosco himself remembers that the first boys he was … Continue reading Don Bosco’s Educational Journey (4/4)

Pope Francis Visits the “Estate Ragazzi in the Vatican” summer center at the San Giuseppe (St Joseph) Sports Centre and Meets the Benefactors

Vatican City, Vatican – July 2024 – Yesterday morning, July 18, Pope Francis visited the “Estate Ragazzi in the Vatican” summer center, accompanied by Fr Franco Fontana, SDB, responsible for organizing the center’s physical, educational, and spiritual activity weeks. After a brief greeting and a thank you to the benefactors at Casa Santa Marta, the Pope moved to the area of the small sports center, … Continue reading Pope Francis Visits the “Estate Ragazzi in the Vatican” summer center at the San Giuseppe (St Joseph) Sports Centre and Meets the Benefactors

Onward and in Shirt Sleeves (3/4)

Don Bosco’s Education Journey (Continued) – By Redaktor Strony / June 14, 2024 / Salesian Bulletin Online – (Continued from previous article) Even today, in a different cultural and social context, Don Bosco’s grasp of things is not all all outdated, but still works. Especially surprising, in the dynamics of rehabilitating children and young people who have entered the penal circuit, is the inventive spirit in creating concrete job opportunities for … Continue reading Onward and in Shirt Sleeves (3/4)

Program for Synod of Young People

(ANS – Rome) – About 300 young people from all over the Salesian world will gather in Valdocco and Colle Don Bosco from August 11 to 16 for a synodal experience of shared life, fun, dialogue and spiritual enrichment. The entire experience has been called “Salesian Youth Synod” and will be held on the occasion of the bicentennial of Don Bosco’s dream at Nine Years of … Continue reading Program for Synod of Young People

Go, Look Around! (2/4)

Don Bosco’s Education Journey (Continued) – By Redaktor Strony / June 14, 2024 / Salesian Bulletin Online – (continued from previous article) Sedentary by profession or by choice, computerized in thought and action, we risk losing the originality of “being”, of sharing, of growing “together.” Don Bosco did not live in the era of test-tube preparations: he left humanity the pedagogy of ‘companionship’, the spiritual and physical … Continue reading Go, Look Around! (2/4)

“Shaping Tomorrow”: The Church’s Media Communication in a Change of Era

(ANS – Rome) Talking about a new era sometimes frightens Church people, while other times it fascinates them. A new phase of history means a change in thinking, acting, planning and evangelizing. Each new era introduces distinct processes and innovative tools linked to the modernization of communication and the transformation of the entire culture. Some communication structures are relaxing, others are crystallizing, even in the Church, … Continue reading “Shaping Tomorrow”: The Church’s Media Communication in a Change of Era

Don Bosco’s Educational Journey (1/4)

Written by Redaktor Strony / June 14, 2024 / Salesian Bulletin Online Following the Paths of the Heart   Don Bosco wept at the sight of the boys who ended up in prison. Yesterday, as is the case today, evil’s timetable is relentless: fortunately, so is the schedule for good. And even more so. I feel that yesterday’s roots are the same as today’s. Like yesterday, others today … Continue reading Don Bosco’s Educational Journey (1/4)

2024 Paris Olympics: Salesian Alumnus Guilherme Caribé Invites Young People to Dedicate Themselves to Sport

(ANS – Salvador) – Young Brazilian swimmer Guilherme Caribé, a former student of the Don Bosco Salesian Institute in Salvador (BA), shows great promise for the Brazilian team that will participate in the upcoming Olympics to take place in Paris from Friday, July 26, to Sunday, August 11, 2024. The young Guilherme will arrive at the Games on the strength of the new record he beat in … Continue reading 2024 Paris Olympics: Salesian Alumnus Guilherme Caribé Invites Young People to Dedicate Themselves to Sport

Cagliero Life- July Video: Infirmity

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions, We are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of July linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion and sharingwithin the various youth groups. This month the topic is INFIRMITY.How can I meet God in my infirmity? Enjoy! Please let us know what do you think about it and follow … Continue reading Cagliero Life- July Video: Infirmity

A Carefree Summer for Syrian Children – Thanks to the Don Bosco World Salesian Camp

(ANS – Damascus) – “Don Bosco World” has taken the place of “Don Bosco Space” as the theme of the summer camps that the Salesian houses in Aleppo, Damascus and Kafroun are offering this year to almost 3,000 youngsters for about a month and a half. In the midst of the difficult economic and social situation of the country, which has been at war for … Continue reading A Carefree Summer for Syrian Children – Thanks to the Don Bosco World Salesian Camp

“No, unaccompanied minors do not endanger our society with their delinquency.” – Fr. Jean-Marie Petitclerc, SDB

(ANS – Paris) – In their speeches, some politicians associate the issue of Unaccompanied Minors  – that is, foreign adolescents who arrive in Europe without an adult by their side – with the problem of juvenile delinquency, insinuating that they should be distrusted and that the State should protect its citizens from their possible actions. Fr. Jean-Marie Petitclerc, Salesian of Don Bosco and Coordinator of the Don Bosco … Continue reading “No, unaccompanied minors do not endanger our society with their delinquency.” – Fr. Jean-Marie Petitclerc, SDB

Between Admiration and Pain

THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJOR – By Angel Card. Fernández Artime I cordially greet all Don Bosco’s friends who come to the Salesian Bulletin with interest. This is the instrument of communication that Don Bosco loved so much and that he himself founded so he could make known what was happening in the Salesian houses around the world and the good that was being … Continue reading Between Admiration and Pain

Entre la Admiración y el Dolor

Saludo muy cordialmente a todos los amigos y amigas de Don Bosco que con interés se acercan al Boletín Salesiano, este instrumento de comunicación que tanto amaba Don Bosco y que el mismo fundó para dar a conocer la realidad de las casas salesianas en el mundo y el bien que se hacía. Hoy les estoy saludando por última vez desde esta página del Boletín … Continue reading Entre la Admiración y el Dolor

A New “Flash” Aid to Think about Vocational Pedagogy: “Accompanying the First Vocational Dreams”

(ANS – Rome) – The entire Salesian Youth Ministry is oriented, by its very nature, to vocational discernment, since its ultimate goal is to help young people discover their own concrete path to realize the life plan to which God calls them. As 2024 well reminds us, the Dream at Nine Years of age was evoked by Don Bosco in the Memoirs of the Oratory, one … Continue reading A New “Flash” Aid to Think about Vocational Pedagogy: “Accompanying the First Vocational Dreams”

The Algorithm at the Service of Humankind: Communicating in the Age of AI

(ANS – Vatican City) – Experts gather in the Vatican to discuss the ethical and anthropological implications of Artificial Intelligence, emphasising the need for regulation and responsible use of data. After Pope Francis’ message was released for World Communications Day last month, a conference entitled “The algorithm at the service of humankind. Communicating in the age of artificial intelligence” took place in the Vatican on Thursday, … Continue reading The Algorithm at the Service of Humankind: Communicating in the Age of AI

Cagliero 11

Dear friend of the Salesian missions, we are sending you the July Cagliero 11 bulletin. Please print for the community Notice Board /oratory /school… and / or forward it to the confreres and to the people interested in it. IN THIS ISSUE  – Greetings from Br. Raymond Callo SDB, member of Formation Sector; –  “The Servant of God Costantino Vendrame, apostolic missionary” by Fr. Pierluigi Cameroni SDB, General Postulator; – The interview with … Continue reading Cagliero 11

“Shaping Tomorrow”: Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Gen C – Differences in Communication

(ANS – Rome) – Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Gen C are all terms that have now entered our daily lexicon. Trying to understand the differences between these categories, however, can generate confusion. Fr Maciej Makuła, SDB, a member of the Social Communication Sector, has catalogued the various generations and their different ways of approaching the world of communication. He presents an accurate examination of … Continue reading “Shaping Tomorrow”: Gen X, Gen Y, Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Gen C – Differences in Communication

DBGYFF 2024: An Invitation to the Young to Build a Greener and Sustainable Future

(ANS – Rome) – Expectation is growing and work is continuing for the third edition of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF), the Salesian international youth film festival, dedicated this year to encouraging young people around the world to contribute through their short films in building up a world greener and sustainable, under the theme of the festival “I Have a Dream – Youth … Continue reading DBGYFF 2024: An Invitation to the Young to Build a Greener and Sustainable Future

Thanksgiving for the Rector Major 2024

Rome, Italy – June 2024 – On Monday, June 24, the traditional Feast of Thanksgiving for Don Bosco and his Successors at the head of the Salesian Congregation was renewed for the 154th time. The Feast of Thanksgiving 2024 had its own evident special features that made it even more special than usual: first of all, it was once again celebrated in Rome, after the … Continue reading Thanksgiving for the Rector Major 2024

“Embracing Our Legacy: Journeying Together with Don Bosco” – A Message from the President of the World Confederation of Past Pupils of Don Bosco

(ANS – Sliema) – On June 24, the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, St. John Bosco’s name day and the symbolic date of the foundation of the Past Pupils of Don Bosco, the President of the World Confederation, Bryan Magro, sent a message from Malta in which, recalling the roots of the feast, he casts his gaze forward to the new challenges awaiting the … Continue reading “Embracing Our Legacy: Journeying Together with Don Bosco” – A Message from the President of the World Confederation of Past Pupils of Don Bosco

Work Begins in the Last Plenary Session of the General Council Chaired by Card. Fernández Artime

(ANS – Rome) – Work has begun in the summer plenary session of the General Council of the Salesian Congregation, the last “plenum” to be chaired by Card. Ángel Fernández Artime  – Rector Major In the seven weeks of work, between now and 26 July, there will be numerous work sessions to accompany the ordinary leadership and government of the entire Congregation, as well as to … Continue reading Work Begins in the Last Plenary Session of the General Council Chaired by Card. Fernández Artime

Don Bosco’s Summer Resource

Summer 1859. The war between France and Piedmont against Austria left many orphans after the battles of Magenta and Solferino and Don Bosco welcomed dozens of them. To cheer them up, he prepared a 20-day itinerary through the mountains of Monferrato. The places to visit are described in the “Casalis Dictionary“. This Dictionary, from Turin thanks to Abbot Godofredo Casalis, had the official name “Historical, geographical, … Continue reading Don Bosco’s Summer Resource

The Country is Experiencing a Situation “That Cannot be Described in Words”

(ANS – Port-au-Prince) – “Life in Haiti, particularly in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, cannot be described in words. We are in a state of almost total anarchy. People are generally unable to carry out their activities and the main roads are closed”. This is the dramatic testimony shared by Fr Victor Auguste, Salesian of Haiti. “The violence of the gangs is causing a significant number … Continue reading The Country is Experiencing a Situation “That Cannot be Described in Words”

Cagliero Life June 2024 Video

Dear friend of the Salesian missions, 
On day 11, monthly remembrance of Salesian missions, we are happy to share with you the Cagliero Life video of June linked to the monthly Salesian intention published in the June Cagliero, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion and sharing within the various youth groups. 
  You can also watch the video on the Settore per le Missioni Salesiane … Continue reading Cagliero Life June 2024 Video

Learning to Re-Conceptualize Gender Relations from the Dignity of Faith

(ANS) –  “We have to think about human relationships that welcome, accept, and are nourished by the richness of diversity. This is stressful in our interpersonal relationships because diversity may lead us to think about divisions or the temptation to uniformity (…) the issue is how to simultaneously sustain communion and unity in distinction.” Andrea Sánchez Ruiz, rapporteur. As the RED América Social Salesiana (RASS), we promote opportunities to strengthen the capacities of the … Continue reading Learning to Re-Conceptualize Gender Relations from the Dignity of Faith

Nino, A Young Man Like So Many… Meets the Purpose of Life in His Lord

By Redator Strong             Nino Baglieri was born in Modica Alta on May 1, 1951 to his mother Giuseppa and father Pietro. After just four days he was baptised in the Parish of St Anthony of Padua. He grew up like many boys, with a group of friends, some struggles during his school years and the dream of a future made up of work and … Continue reading Nino, A Young Man Like So Many… Meets the Purpose of Life in His Lord

Don Bosco and the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

(ANS – Rome) – Don Bosco had a great devotion to the Sacred Heart, and he recommended it to his boys. This devotion was displayed in many forms and expressions during his life: writings, prayers, good advice and recommendations, and even churches.  And his devotion was so compelling that it became part of the Salesian Charism itself, being spread by his Successors and Spiritual Sons to … Continue reading Don Bosco and the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

When an Educator Touches the Hearts of Children: The Art of Being Like Don Bosco

THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJOR: Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB The art of being like Don Bosco: “Remember that education is a matter of the heart, of which God alone is the master, and that we can achieve nothing unless God teaches us the art and hands us the key” (The Biographical Memoirs of Saint John Bosco, XVI, 376). My dear friends, readers of … Continue reading When an Educator Touches the Hearts of Children: The Art of Being Like Don Bosco

Don Bosco, Politics, and the Social Question

By P. Natale CERRATO Did Don Bosco do politics? Yes, but not in the immediate sense of the word. He himself said that his politics were of the Our Father: souls to be saved, poor young people to be nurtured and educated. Don Bosco and Politics:Don Bosco lived intensely and with a conscious awareness of the problems, unprecedented for him also, of the great cultural … Continue reading Don Bosco, Politics, and the Social Question

A Focus on the World’s Displaced

June is the month in which World Refugee Day is celebrated, on the 20th. This month, Pope Francis also dedicated his video message with prayer intentions for migrants and all those fleeing their countries. This is the context for Missionary Bulletin “Cagliero11” which has published a forum on displaced people in the world. Referring to the data published by UNHCR – United Nations High Commissioner … Continue reading A Focus on the World’s Displaced

Testimonies of Life from Senior Salesians: Fr. Luis Chamizo Fajardo’s Words

(ANS – Rome) – 91 years of age – 92 on September 10 – Spanish Salesian, Fr. Luis Chamizo Fajardo, was the oldest of the participants in the “Return to the Sources” course run by the Missions Sector to bring long-term missionaries who have now reached old age back to the “source” of their vocation. Yet, Fr. Chamizo witnessed and passed on a childlike joy and … Continue reading Testimonies of Life from Senior Salesians: Fr. Luis Chamizo Fajardo’s Words

First World Children’s Day: Pope Francis Entrusts the World and Peace to the Little Ones

(ANS– Vatican City) – A simple and joyful celebration, as are children all over the world: this was the First World Children’s Day (WCD), established by Pope Francis at the suggestion of a child, and held on the weekend of 25-26 May 2024 in Rome. In the two stages of the event – Saturday afternoon at the Olympic Stadium and Sunday morning in St Peter’s Square – … Continue reading First World Children’s Day: Pope Francis Entrusts the World and Peace to the Little Ones

Feast of Mary Help of Christians: the Rector Major Emphasizes “Mary’s Welcoming Nature”

(ANS – Rome) – Keeping up the promise he made on 17 December 2023, when he took possession of the diaconate of Santa Maria Ausiliatrice on Via Tuscolana assigned to him by Pope Francis, the Rector Major of the Salesians and Titular Archbishop of Ursona, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, celebrated the Feast of Mary Help of Christians 2024 in the church he is responsible for. The celebration was … Continue reading Feast of Mary Help of Christians: the Rector Major Emphasizes “Mary’s Welcoming Nature”

Exploratory Visit from the General Councillor for the Missions

(ANS – Atyrau) – Fr Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for the Missions, was on an exploratory visit to Kazakhstan from May 24 to 28, 2024, at the invitation of Fr Peter Sakmár, Apostolic Administrator of Atyrau. “I accepted the invitation because it is the task of the General Councillor for the Missions to explore new possible frontiers for the Congregation,” he explained. The General Councillor arrived … Continue reading Exploratory Visit from the General Councillor for the Missions

Cagliero 11 – June 2024

IN THIS ISSUE • Greetings from Fr. Samuel Amaglo SDB, Lecturer in Missiology – Rome UPS; • “Volunteering: Something Meaningful for God!” by Fr. Alfred Maravilla SDB, General Councillor for the Missions; • The interview with Fr. Amatus Manirabaruta SDB: “Salesians rebuilding people’s life in Palabek”; • The forum on the forcibly displaced persons in the world; • The monthly prayer intention for refugees in … Continue reading Cagliero 11 – June 2024

The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Rome Celebrates its Patronal Feast Day with Cardinal Fernández Artime

(ANS – Rome) – Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime will spend his last Feast of Mary Help of Christians as Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco in the city that has been his home – apart from his many trips – in the last 10 years: Rome. The 10th Successor of Don Bosco will preside over the solemn festive Eucharist at 6 pm (UTC+2) at … Continue reading The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Rome Celebrates its Patronal Feast Day with Cardinal Fernández Artime

The Bicentenary of Saint John Bosco’s Childhood Dream, ‘Between Past and Present’

(ANS Turin) – To refer to the life of St John Bosco (1815-1888), a leading figure of nineteenth-century Piedmontese social holiness, without mentioning the world of dreams, is to suppress an important aspect of his identity. Through the dreams that God sent him, the life of the saint was marked by the supernatural. Between the ages of nine and ten Don Bosco had his first dream, … Continue reading The Bicentenary of Saint John Bosco’s Childhood Dream, ‘Between Past and Present’

Summer Camp Youth Leaders Trained on Peer-to-Peer Trauma-Informed Approach

(ANS – Bellflower) – In response to the escalating mental health challenges faced by young people today, Camp Savio (in Bellflower) and Camp Salesian (in Los Angeles) recently collaborated to train 50 summer camp youth leaders on peer-to-peer trauma management. This initiative, held in May 2024, comes at a critical time as the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to impact youth mental health … Continue reading Summer Camp Youth Leaders Trained on Peer-to-Peer Trauma-Informed Approach

“Shaping Tomorrow”: Salesian Mobile Journalism

(ANS – Rome) – “Mobile Journalism” (or “MoJo”), understood as digital information created using mobile devices such as smartphones, is a communication area in which the Salesians of Don Bosco are heavily investing. This approach serves as a resource for agile and effective communication, especially in settings with limited structural resources. In preparation for the Communication 2024 Conference “SHAPING TOMORROW,” which will take place from … Continue reading “Shaping Tomorrow”: Salesian Mobile Journalism

Interview with the Rector Major of the Salesians, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime

(ANS – Fatima) – During his visit to Portugal for the National Day of the Salesian Youth Movement and the Pilgrimage of the Salesian Family to Fatima, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesian Congregation, gave a brief interview to the Salesians in Portugal, in which he talks about the importance of young people in the Salesian charism, the current challenges of the Congregation … Continue reading Interview with the Rector Major of the Salesians, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime

The 2024 World Advisory Council of the Salesian Family: “God’s Dream for the Salesian Family in Our Time”

(ANS – Turin) – Yesterday, Monday, 20 May 2024, the annual appointment of the Salesian Family World Advisory Council opened. Until Thursday 23rd, the eve of the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, the Major Superiors and Leaders of the groups that make up the Salesian Family are gathered together at the Salesian Mother House in Valdocco, Turin, to reflect “God’s dream for the Salesian Family … Continue reading The 2024 World Advisory Council of the Salesian Family: “God’s Dream for the Salesian Family in Our Time”

Salesian Cooperator Day 2024 celebrated on “Zoom”

(ANS – Interamerica) – In an atmosphere of great joy, the Interamerica Region celebrated Salesian Cooperator, Day on the occasion of the 148th anniversary of the Foundation of the Association. The celebration took place virtually on Zoom and brought together participants from all 13 countries that make up the Region. The meeting began with the prayer created by the Association, worldwide, in preparation for the 150th … Continue reading Salesian Cooperator Day 2024 celebrated on “Zoom”

A Teacher Heads for the Altars: An Exhibition on Servant of God Arturo Álvarez

(ANS – Guadalajara, Mexico) – May 2024 – An exhibition, “La Química de la Docenica” (“The Chemistry of Teaching”) was inaugurated on Tuesday, May 14 at the Salesian Anáhuac Garibaldi Institute. It is a presentation of the life of the Servant of God Arturo Álvarez, a teacher at the institute from 1966 to 1968. The event was attended by Guillermo Villarreal Chapa, responsible for the … Continue reading A Teacher Heads for the Altars: An Exhibition on Servant of God Arturo Álvarez

The Youth Ministry Sector Publishes “Hidden Diamonds”: 200 Dreams of Young People

(ANS – Rome) – On the occasion of the bicentenary of Don Bosco’s dream at 9 years of age, a book of dreams has been created. “We wanted to challenge the young people around the world with a very simple, but very existential question: ‘What is your life’s dream?’” the General Councillor for Youth Ministry, Fr Miguel Angel García Morcuende, explained. “And we have received young … Continue reading The Youth Ministry Sector Publishes “Hidden Diamonds”: 200 Dreams of Young People

Reflections from the Periphery on Salesian Education Today in the American Continents

By Fr. Alejandro Rodriguez, SDB, Salesian Center for Ongoing Formation – Berkeley The Salesian Family is present educating and evangelizing throughout the American continents and in the most varied places and projects. Our educational system (the Preventive System of Don Bosco) impacts the big city and the small town, the Amazon jungle, the pampas (plains) and the mountains, the poor neighborhood and the urbanized area. … Continue reading Reflections from the Periphery on Salesian Education Today in the American Continents

Salesians of Don Bosco Gear Up for the Artificial Intelligence Age: New Commission Launched

Don Bosco Tech alumnus Brendan Chua (Design ‘00), the school’s Dean of Technology and Chair of the popular Media Arts & Technology (MAT) program, is serving as a member on the 12-person International Salesian Commission for Artificial Intelligence (ISCAI). Here is the article as it is presented on Agenzia iNfo Salesian: (ANS – Rome) – In order to answer to the mandate of the GC28 to … Continue reading Salesians of Don Bosco Gear Up for the Artificial Intelligence Age: New Commission Launched

Pope Francis: May the Jubilee be a Time to Rediscover, Proclaim and Build Hope

(ANS – Vatican City) – Pope Francis calls Christians to be builders of hope as he celebrates Vespers after presiding at the ceremony to officially proclaim the Jubilee of 2025. “Christian hope gives us the courage to build a fraternal and peaceful world when it seems barely worth the effort,” Pope Francis said as he encouraged the faithful to rejoice in the gift of the resurrection … Continue reading Pope Francis: May the Jubilee be a Time to Rediscover, Proclaim and Build Hope

Worldwide Novena to Mary Help of Christians: Booklets Available in Five Languages

(ANS – Rome) – Anticipation is growing for the 2024 edition of the Worldwide Novena to Mary Help of Christians. As devotees around the world prepare for the spiritual journey to be undertaken as a community, those responsible for the initiative have completed and made available the translated versions of the booklets that accompany the videos. The happy intuition to gather the entire global Salesian Family … Continue reading Worldwide Novena to Mary Help of Christians: Booklets Available in Five Languages

5th ESA Continental Meeting: Together for the Present and Future of Salesian Education

(ANS – Guadalajara) – As part of the celebrations for the 30th anniversary of the Salesian School in America (ESA, in Spanish), the 5th ESA Continental Meeting was held from 1 to 5 May at the Anáhuac Chapalita Institute in Guadalajara, State of Jalisco, Mexico, under the motto: “Together for the present and future of Salesian education”. The event was attended by around 237 people from 47 Provinces – including the … Continue reading 5th ESA Continental Meeting: Together for the Present and Future of Salesian Education

Flood Emergency in the State of Rio Grande do Sul: The Province of Porto Alegre Commits to Helping

ANS – Porto Alegre) – Brazil is in a state of natural disaster following the disastrous floods that have hit the State of Rio Grande do Sul, in the extreme south of the country, the worst since 1941, since April 27, 2024. The most affected area was around Porto Alegre, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, where in some locations, 150 mm of rain fell in 24 … Continue reading Flood Emergency in the State of Rio Grande do Sul: The Province of Porto Alegre Commits to Helping

Pope Francis Acknowledges the Valuable Educational Service Provided Through Industrial Technical Training

(ANS – Vatican City) – On the morning of Friday, May 3, 2024, Pope Francis warmly welcomed the members of the National Confederation for Upskilling in Technical Skills (CONFAP) to the Vatican, marking the commemoration of its 50th anniversary. Among the attendees were representatives from the Salesian community, including delegations from the National Salesian Centre for Upskilling in Technical Skills (Centro Nazionale Opere Salesiane – Formazione Aggiornamento Professionale – … Continue reading Pope Francis Acknowledges the Valuable Educational Service Provided Through Industrial Technical Training

Civil Association for Youth and Work: 30 years of Formation for Work

(ANS – Caracas) – For 30 years, the Asociación Civil Juventud y Trabajo (Civil Association for Youth and Work) has played a fundamental role in the formation and support of young Venezuelans. Founded by the Salesians of Don Bosco, this organization was a beacon of hope in a context of growing school dropout and violence in the country. The mission of the association is clear and is typically Salesian: to transform lives through vocational training, education and … Continue reading Civil Association for Youth and Work: 30 years of Formation for Work

San Juan Bosco Vocational Training Centre Celebrates 39th Anniversary

(Tegucigalpa, Honduras) – April 2024 – The San Juan Bosco Vocational Training Centre celebrates its 39th anniversary. Founded almost four decades ago by Fr. Guerrino Giacomel, SDB, who, following Don Bosco’s ideals, dedicated his commitment and passion to helping Honduran youth, the center has left an indelible mark on the country’s technical training. Under the current leadership of Salesian Brother Oscar Pereira and his team … Continue reading San Juan Bosco Vocational Training Centre Celebrates 39th Anniversary

Mary Help of Christians From Here to the World

THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJOR Don Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB Dear Readers of the Salesian Bulletin,  My affectionate and cordial greetings during this Easter season.  In a world in turmoil, agitated by armed conflicts and no small amount of violence, we continue to declare, announce, and proclaim that Jesus is Lord, raised by the Father, and that he LIVES. We strongly need His Presence in hearts … Continue reading Mary Help of Christians From Here to the World

Do Elderly Salesians Have a Role in the Digital Culture?

The answer in the letter “Sharing Wisdom and Hope in Digital Culture” from the General Councillor for Social Communication, Fr Gildasio Mendes,SDB (ANS – Rome) – In view of the current digital reality, and due to the presence, especially in some regions of the Salesian world, of a large number of elderly Salesians, the General Councillor for Social Communication, Fr Gildasio Mendes, has decided to dedicate a special … Continue reading Do Elderly Salesians Have a Role in the Digital Culture?

Shaping Tomorrow: Avoiding “Inappropriate Gestures”

(ANS – Rome) – Body language when speaking in public or in front of the camera reveals the speaker’s secrets. However, this statement should not be exaggerated. Yet, body posture can betray emotions, especially stress, fear of judgment by others, lack of concentration, or fear of public speaking. Certain gestures can confuse the listener and create invisible barriers. It is an aspect that cannot be overlooked when … Continue reading Shaping Tomorrow: Avoiding “Inappropriate Gestures”

Meetings with Pope Francis and the Rector Major at the Conclusion of “Accompanying When Trauma Hits” Formation Course

(ANS – Vatican City) – As part of the General Audience on Wednesday, the participants in the course “Accompanying when trauma hits, 2024” were able to meet Pope Francis, thanks to the good work of Prof. Busnelli and Sister Alessandra Smerilli, who assured them a place of honour in the General Audience. His Holiness listened carefully to the explanations on the course provided by Viktorija Kalic … Continue reading Meetings with Pope Francis and the Rector Major at the Conclusion of “Accompanying When Trauma Hits” Formation Course

2nd Regional Meeting of Young Leaders in the Salesian Cooperators

(ANS – Antigua Guatemala) – The Salesian Cooperators (ASC) in the Interamerica Region held a 2nd Regional Meeting of Young Leaders from April 11-14, 2024, in Posada Belén, Antigua Guatemala. Present was Antonio Boccia, World Coordinator of the Association, accompanied by his wife Francesca. Seventy-one Salesian Cooperators, eight aspirants, and the Provincial Delegates for the ASC of the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) and the Daughters of … Continue reading 2nd Regional Meeting of Young Leaders in the Salesian Cooperators

Two New Salesian Shepherds for the Church – Card. Ángel Fernández Artime and Archbishop Giordano Piccinotti

(ANS – Rome) –The Episcopal Ordination of two eminent sons of Don Bosco, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major of the Salesian Congregation and Titular Archbishop-elect of Ursona, and Archbishop Giordano Piccinotti, Titular Archbishop-elect of Gradisca and President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA) took place in the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major this evening at 3:30 p.m. His … Continue reading Two New Salesian Shepherds for the Church – Card. Ángel Fernández Artime and Archbishop Giordano Piccinotti

The Youth Ministry Sector publishes “EDUCATIONAL PATHWAYS” for a Youth Ministry that educates to love

(ANS – Rome) – A series of pathways are presented to gain a deeper appreciation of the educational criteria proposed in the text “A youth ministry that educates to love” and strengthen some social and personal skills. The authors are General Councillor Fr Miguel Ángel García Morcuende, Antonella Sinagoga, psychotherapist and Monica Ronchi, psychologist. By educational pathway we mean a path of pedagogical activity, a structured … Continue reading The Youth Ministry Sector publishes “EDUCATIONAL PATHWAYS” for a Youth Ministry that educates to love

Anticipation for the Episcopal Ordination of Card. Ángel Fernández Artime and Bishop Giordano Piccinotti

(ANS – Rome) – There is an air of great expecation throughout the Salesian world for the celebration of the Mass of the episcopal consecration of Card. Ángel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Titular Archbishop-elect of Ursona; and that of Archbishop Giordano Piccinotti, Titular Archbishop-elect of Gradisca, President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA), which … Continue reading Anticipation for the Episcopal Ordination of Card. Ángel Fernández Artime and Bishop Giordano Piccinotti

Spiritual Preparation Retreat for Episcopal Ordination for the Rector Major, Card. Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB

ANS – Rome) – Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesian Congregation, will be on retreat at the Santa Chiara convent of the Poor Clares in the Vatican from Friday April 12, 2024, until Monday, April 15th. A similar retreat is also being made by Archbishop Giordano Piccinotti, President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA), who will be consecrated … Continue reading Spiritual Preparation Retreat for Episcopal Ordination for the Rector Major, Card. Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB

Promoting Sustainable Integral Human Development

(ANS – Rome) – Today the term “development” is widely used, but often from a philanthropic or ideological perspective. That is why it is important to talk about integral sustainable development from a Catholic perspective. Doing so, on the monthly anniversary of the Salesian Missionary Expedition, is General Councillor for Missions Fr Alfred Maravilla. ‘Development’ is a term that has several implications. NGOs, foundations, and countless … Continue reading Promoting Sustainable Integral Human Development

Youth Ministry and Mission Sectors United in Mission: A Global Vision for Salesian Missionary Volunteering

(ANS – Rome) – In an inspiring display of collaboration and shared vision, the Salesian congregation’s Youth Ministry and Missions sectors have united to foster a robust and dynamic Salesian Missionary Volunteering. This groundbreaking initiative traces its origins to the innovative proposal by three dedicated lay individuals who envisioned a unified effort at the congregational level to promote the spirit of Salesian missionary work. The proposal … Continue reading Youth Ministry and Mission Sectors United in Mission: A Global Vision for Salesian Missionary Volunteering

A Vibrant Holy Week Journey: St. Isabel Catholic Elementary School Celebrations

By Luis Chacon During the sacred days of Holy Week, the St. Isabel Catholic Elementary School embarked on a profound journey of reflection, prayer, and celebration. This journey was made possible under the guidance of our dedicated educators and the invaluable support of the Salesian community. Facilitated by Salesian Cooperator Jesús Ortega, the Coordinator of the Religion Department, and Salesians of Don Bosco from the … Continue reading A Vibrant Holy Week Journey: St. Isabel Catholic Elementary School Celebrations

Third Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival: Young People Worldwide Invited to Tell Their Dreams of Making Mother Earth Cleaner and Greener

(ANS – Rome) – Young people from all over the world are once again invited to participate in the “Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival” (DBGYFF), the Salesian international youth film festival. The Social Communication Sector of the Salesian Congregation has, in fact, joyfully announced the third edition of the competition, the final of which is scheduled for 17-18 October 2024 – as usual in a multitude of … Continue reading Third Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival: Young People Worldwide Invited to Tell Their Dreams of Making Mother Earth Cleaner and Greener

Worldwide Presentation of the New Document of the Salesian Youth Ministry Sector: The Oratory – Salesian Youth Center

(ANS – Rome) – After the publication of the new document on the Salesian Youth Oratory-Center on December 8, 2023,  prepared by the Salesian Youth Ministry Sector and the result of an in-depth process of reflection, updating and collaboration with all the Provinces, the Sector has scheduled the official presentation worldwide of this document: it will take place on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. To encourage worldwide … Continue reading Worldwide Presentation of the New Document of the Salesian Youth Ministry Sector: The Oratory – Salesian Youth Center

Empowering Youth in Liturgical Service: Nurturing Faith Through Participation

By JC Montenegro, PhD (ANS – Bellflower) – The other day, I attended the 10:00 AM Mass at St Dominic Savio Church in Bellflower, CA. I was impressed with the way the liturgy took place. There was nothing out of the ordinary, considering the structure of the liturgy. However, something different and unique was happening. Children and young people were empowered to serve. From the … Continue reading Empowering Youth in Liturgical Service: Nurturing Faith Through Participation

“Today, If We Want to Be Salesians, We Cannot Think of Ourselves Without Young People”

(ANS – Caracas) – After visits to the communities in Boleíta and Altamira, Fr. Hugo Orozco, Councillor for the Interamerica Region, visited the Salesian community in Sarría on March 17 and 18, characterized by a strong youth presence. Fr. Orozco concluded the Extraordinary Visitation on March 21 and 22 at the Provincial headquarters by sharing the current situation of the Province and highlighting the challenges to … Continue reading “Today, If We Want to Be Salesians, We Cannot Think of Ourselves Without Young People”

April 1, 2024: 90th Anniversary of the Canonization of Don Bosco

(ANS – Rome) – April 1, 2024, is the 90th anniversary of the canonization of Don Bosco, done by Pope Pius XI on April 1, 1934, Easter day itself, to unite Don Bosco with the glory of the Risen Christ at the conclusion of the Holy Year of the Redemption, called by the same Pope Pius XI to celebrate the 1900 years of the Redemption, death, and resurrection … Continue reading April 1, 2024: 90th Anniversary of the Canonization of Don Bosco

Pope Francis: Youth are the Living Hope of a Church on the Move

(ANS – Vatican City) – On the fifth anniversary of the Apostolic Exhortation, Christus Vivit, Pope Francis invites young people to “make their voices heard” as they “bear witness before everyone to the joy born of friendship with Christ.” The “certainty” that “Christ is alive and He wants you to be alive” has inspired Pope Francis to write again to young people on the fifth anniversary of … Continue reading Pope Francis: Youth are the Living Hope of a Church on the Move

The Odyssey of “Invisible” Minors and Salesian Attention to Young Migrants with a View to Really Saving Lives

(ANS – Rome) – A river of foreign minors flows through Italy every year without practically anyone noticing. They disembark without parents on the island of Lampedusa, in the heart of the Mediterranean, or directly on the Sicilian coast; from there, they begin the journey to the North, to the rest of Italy or Europe, and we lose track of them. In 2023, host communities filed … Continue reading The Odyssey of “Invisible” Minors and Salesian Attention to Young Migrants with a View to Really Saving Lives

I’m a Salesian and I’m a Bororo

THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJOR – Don Angel Fernandez Artime, SDB Diary of a Happy and Blessed Missionary Day Dear friends of the Salesian Bulletin, I’m writing to you from Meruri in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. I write this greeting almost as if it were a journalistic report, because it has been only 24 hours since I arrived in the middle … Continue reading I’m a Salesian and I’m a Bororo

Salesian Easter: A Living Faith Experience for Hundreds of Young People

(ANS – Madrid) – Once again, this year, the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) in Spain are offering a unique spiritual experience to hundreds of teenagers and young adults in their country: the Salesian Easter. These meetings will be held in different parts of Spain from Holy Thursday (28 March) to Easter Sunday (31 March). Around 2,000 … Continue reading Salesian Easter: A Living Faith Experience for Hundreds of Young People

World Water Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Clean Water Projects

(ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and countries around the globe in celebrating World Water Day. Led by U.N.-Water, the organization that coordinates the United Nations’ work on water and sanitation, the day has been honored on March 22 every year since 1993. The day focuses attention on the importance of safe, … Continue reading World Water Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Clean Water Projects

Over 500 People Trained on Emerging Mental Health and Youth Issues

(ANS – Rome) – In March, the Youth Ministry Sector promoted five webinars in 10 sessions with the aim of informing, raising awareness, and creating awareness on some mental health issues in young people: eating disorders, the mental health of migrants and refugees, youth depression, bullying, and suicide, and self-harm. Eight highly competent experts offered observations and concrete indications on these issues. These psychologists, psychiatrists, and … Continue reading Over 500 People Trained on Emerging Mental Health and Youth Issues

The Rector Major Encourages Young People Who Attend the Salesian Missionary Symposium

(ANS – Cuiabá) – On the last day of engagements in the Saint Alphonsus Liguori Province, Friday, 15 March, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, offered advice and messages of faith and courage to the participants in the Salesian Missionary Symposium. The event was entitled “From Dream to Missionary Reality in a Time of Synodality” and took place in the Fazenda Mato Grosso … Continue reading The Rector Major Encourages Young People Who Attend the Salesian Missionary Symposium

IN THE SHAPE OF YOUR DREAM, the Official Hymn of the Salesian Youth Synod 2024

(ANS – Rome) – Setting up the mood for the Salesian Youth Synod, the song, “In the Shape of Your Dream” composed by Emanuel Geraci (ISI), was chosen as the official theme song by the Core Group of Salesian youth – Pablo Osorio (SSM), Marta Radic (CRO), Kasia Grabek (PLE), Kyle Portelli (MLT), Teaghan Dolan (AUL), Jennifer Lie (INA), Wendy Ponce (BOL), Santiago Roda Cano (COM), … Continue reading IN THE SHAPE OF YOUR DREAM, the Official Hymn of the Salesian Youth Synod 2024

Remembering A Dream – Studies for the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s Dream of 1824

In order to mark the bicentenary of the foundational dream that Saint John Bosco experienced when only nine years of age (1824), this book offers readers reflections on a number of biblical and theological themes that emerge from the simplicity yet depth of that dream. In the first place, certain elements from the life and person of Jesus are presented as the model for a … Continue reading Remembering A Dream – Studies for the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s Dream of 1824

Meeting of the Salesian Cooperators Association World Council and Appointment of the World Coordinator

(ANS – Rome) – There was a recent meeting of the Salesian Cooperators Association World Council held in Rome from March 14 to 17, 2024. The meeting was attended by World Councillors for the 12 Regions into which the Association is divided. In particular, in addition to the World Coordinator, Antonio Boccia, there were also members of the World Executive Secretariat and Fr Joan Lluis Playà, … Continue reading Meeting of the Salesian Cooperators Association World Council and Appointment of the World Coordinator

The Rector Major: “The Salesian Congregation is Missionary in its Essence”

(ANS – Sangradouro) – “The Salesian Congregation is missionary in its essence”: this statement by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major, was made a few hours before the end of his visit to the Salesian missions in Mato Grosso, among the Boe-Bororo and Xavante indigenous peoples. The Rector Major said he was moved by the gratitude shown by the Boe-Bororo and Xavante populations towards the work … Continue reading The Rector Major: “The Salesian Congregation is Missionary in its Essence”

Salesians Amid the Violence and Chaos in Haiti: “We Are Living in Hell”

(ANS – Port-au-Prince) – Armed gang violence dominates Haiti. The situation of instability that the country is experiencing since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 has degenerated recently, when Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his commitment to hold elections before August 2025. Since then, the situation has precipitated assaults on prisons, mass escapes of dangerous criminals, shootings and attempted assaults on the National Palace, … Continue reading Salesians Amid the Violence and Chaos in Haiti: “We Are Living in Hell”

Journey of Service: Reflections on Salesian Missionary Volunteering and Community Empowerment

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Missionary Volunteering continues to flourish, with participants deeply engaged in discussions about critical topics and plans to strengthen the program’s impact. In the latest gathering, which spanned four days, attendees delved into essential themes such as identity, formation, accompaniment, and network building. During the third day of the gathering, the focus was on the vital concept of accompaniment. Recognizing the … Continue reading Journey of Service: Reflections on Salesian Missionary Volunteering and Community Empowerment

The 30th Anniversary of CRESCO-America

Amatitán, Mexico – March 2024 – From March 3rd to 10th, 2024, the 30th-anniversary celebrations of “CRESCO-America,” a specific formation community for Salesian coadjutors of the Salesian Provinces in America, were celebrated. The event, organized by the current CRESCO community and the Province of Mexico-Guadalajara (MEG), was also attended by 35 Salesian coadjutors who were formed at the center in previous years. From 3rd to … Continue reading The 30th Anniversary of CRESCO-America

The Visit of the Rector Major Reaches Its Peak With Stops at the Salesian Missions of Meruri and São Marcos

(ANS – Meruri) – Ever since the announcement of this Animation Visit of the Rector Major, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, to the Province of Brazil-Campo Grande, meetings with the Boe-Bororo and Xavantes peoples have been foreshadowed as the most significant stages of the journey. And now that the Tenth Successor of Don Bosco is actually in the Salesian missions dedicated to them, all the attention of … Continue reading The Visit of the Rector Major Reaches Its Peak With Stops at the Salesian Missions of Meruri and São Marcos

Coming of Age in a Community for Minors. The Solidarity Campaign of “Salesians for Social”

(ANS – Rome) – “Turning 18 for most young people is an eagerly awaited milestone, but for young people accepted into communities for minors, it is a time of great anxiety and concern because coming of age determines the end of many protection and support activities.” Francesco Preite, President of Salesians for Social, an association that has spent 30 years alongside children and young people in fragile … Continue reading Coming of Age in a Community for Minors. The Solidarity Campaign of “Salesians for Social”

Assignment of the Titular See and Episcopal Ordination of Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major

(ANS – Rome) – On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, the Holy See Press Office announced that the Holy Father Pope Francis has assigned to Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB, the Rector Major of the Salesian Society of St. John Bosco, the titular See of Ursona, with archiepiscopal dignity, in view of his episcopal ordination scheduled for coming April 20. Ángel Fernández Artime, Don Bosco’s Tenth Successor … Continue reading Assignment of the Titular See and Episcopal Ordination of Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major

Salesian Volunteer Program Gains Momentum with Congregational-Level Meeting

ANS – Rome) – In an inspiring move to foster a spirit of missionary service and community engagement, the Salesian Volunteer Advisory Board and Mission and Youth Ministry Counselors have set a plan in motion to promote their volunteer program at a congregational level. The initiative is set to commence on a promising note today, Tuesday, March 5, 2024, with a gathering of 45 SDBs and … Continue reading Salesian Volunteer Program Gains Momentum with Congregational-Level Meeting

Kristiñe’s Volunteering Experience in Mexico Marked “A Before and After in My Life”

(ANS – Tijuana) – Kristiñe Azpiazu is a young psychologist who spent three months as a Salesian Missionary Volunteer in several Salesian works in Tijuana, Mexico, on the northern border with the United States. Coming from a Basque Government volunteer program, she joined the international volunteer experience of “Misiones Salesianas” – the Salesian Mission Office based in Madrid – to offer her time and talent to … Continue reading Kristiñe’s Volunteering Experience in Mexico Marked “A Before and After in My Life”

The Archbishop of Rabat, Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, SDB, in Paris for a Conference on Dialogue and Education in Islamic Lands

(ANS – Paris) – “Education is a process of relationship so that an individual, young or old, can take from themselves all the abilities that God has given them and place them at the service of society.” Archbishop Cristóbal López Romero, appointed Cardinal by Pope Francis in 2019, is also a Salesian of Don Bosco and, therefore, ça va sans dire, is passionate about educational issues. The Salesian … Continue reading The Archbishop of Rabat, Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero, SDB, in Paris for a Conference on Dialogue and Education in Islamic Lands

A “Green” Initiative for Lent

(Tonj, South Sudan) – The Don Bosco primary school in Tonj has launched a campaign to clean up the environment, which will be carried out during Lent. The project, called “Keep Clean and Grow Green,” involves the students of the school who, every Friday until March 22, will take care of keeping the city of Tonj clean and planting new trees. In response to global warming … Continue reading A “Green” Initiative for Lent

Dreams That Keep Coming True

THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJORDon Angel Fernandez Artime, SDB When reflecting on all this, I feel I have a little authority to say: “Dear Don Bosco, your Dream is still VERY ALIVE.” Dear friends, readers of the Salesian Bulletin, as I do every month, I send you my personal greetings from my heart, and I am offering you my reflections, motivated by what I … Continue reading Dreams That Keep Coming True

“Shaping Tomorrow” – The Future of Communication in the Salesian Family

(ANS – Rome) – In the second appointment of the journey towards the Communication 2024 Conference “Shaping Tomorrow,” scheduled to take place from 1 to 7 August 2024 at the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) in Rome, the Congregation’s Sector for Social Communication suggests a proactive and attentive look at how to prepare the future of communication in the Salesian Family already now. Let us read it … Continue reading “Shaping Tomorrow” – The Future of Communication in the Salesian Family

The Archbishop Shaw High School Band Wins First Place in the Parades for Mardi Gras

(ANS – New Orleans) – February 2024 – The Archbishop Shaw High School band, a high school in Marrero administered by the Salesians, has had great success in events organized in Louisiana for Mardi Gras. The band participated in four parades in different locations in the New Orleans metropolitan area. On Saturday, 10 February, the band traveled to Kenner, a suburb of New Orleans, to march … Continue reading The Archbishop Shaw High School Band Wins First Place in the Parades for Mardi Gras

Vulnerable Youth Have New Chapel Through Salesian Missions

(ANS – Freetown) – Youth at Don Bosco Fambul in Freetown, one of Sierra Leone’s leading child welfare organizations, have a new chapel thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Don Bosco Fambul provides a range of programs to support youth who are living on the streets, girls who have faced sexual abuse, young women who … Continue reading Vulnerable Youth Have New Chapel Through Salesian Missions

Salesian Accompaniment: A Daily Mission

(ANS – Quito) – The San José Cafasso Salesian School of Spiritual Accompaniment aims to form Salesians and lay people with the ability to accompany the processes of personal and vocational growth, walking alongside young people in their human experience and faith through the Salesian charism. This work has a fundamental value: it must be carried out in the daily lives of young people, integrating their … Continue reading Salesian Accompaniment: A Daily Mission

Two Years of Salesian Emergency Response in Ukraine

(ANS – Rome) – We live in a world in a constant humanitarian emergency, something that everybody is perceiving. The Salesian Family cannot ignore this reality and has acted accordingly to bring humanitarian relief and hope in some of the worst conflicts. The Ukraine war is one clear example. In 2018, after approval by the General Council, “Stream of Solidarity” was published in the Salesian manual … Continue reading Two Years of Salesian Emergency Response in Ukraine

Salesian Protomartyrs:  Aloysius (Louis) Versiglia and Callistus Caravario

Written by Redaktor Strony | February 23, 2024 Louis and Callistus: the same missionary vocation for the salvation of souls, but a different story. February 25th this year marks the 94th anniversary of the martyrdom of Bishop Aloysius (Louis) Versiglia and Fr Callistus Caravario, missionaries to China. Louis Versiglia and Callistus Caravario: two figures different in many respects but united by a great apostolic zeal … Continue reading Salesian Protomartyrs:  Aloysius (Louis) Versiglia and Callistus Caravario

RM’s GC28 Video Series: Seventh Action Guideline Following the Chapter

(ANS – Rome) – The seventh video of the series “It is time for Chapter 28” has been made available online today, Friday, 23 February 2024, in which Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, illustrates the seventh Action Guideline delivered after the 28th General Chapter: “IT IS TIME FOR GREATER GENEROSITY IN THE CONGREGATION. A universal and missionary Congregation.” In the column “It … Continue reading RM’s GC28 Video Series: Seventh Action Guideline Following the Chapter

Cagliero Life February Video

Dear friend of the Salesian missions, We are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of February, linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion and sharingwithin the various youth groups.  This month the topic is  GRAND FINAL Do I trust God to not leave me alone even in my Grand Finale? Enjoy!  Mr. Marco Fulgaro – Fr. Pavel Ženíšek … Continue reading Cagliero Life February Video

“Shaping Tomorrow”: on the Way to Shaping the Future of Salesian Communication

(ANS – Rome) – In view of the Communication Conference 2024, entitled “Shaping Tomorrow,” scheduled to take place from 1 to 7 August 2024 at the facilities of the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) in Rome, the Salesian Congregation’s Communication Sector is launching a series of articles intended to explore the nature, meanings, visions, and perspectives of this event We begin today with a careful analysis of … Continue reading “Shaping Tomorrow”: on the Way to Shaping the Future of Salesian Communication

Youth, the Digital World and Youth Ministry: the Third Part of the Interview with Fr. Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication

(ANS – Turin) – Today, with the responses to the last five questions, we conclude the presentation of the interview that the General Councillor for Social Communication, Fr Gildasio Mendes, gave to Fr Bruno Ferrero, Editor of the Salesian Bulletin, and published at the end of 2023 in the Note di Pastorale Giovanile (NPG) Magazine. In this final section, Fr Gildasio Mendes further explores the relationship between communication … Continue reading Youth, the Digital World and Youth Ministry: the Third Part of the Interview with Fr. Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication

Don Bosco Fambul Expands Child-Welfare Work with Grant Secured by Salesian Missions

(ANS – Freetown) – Don Bosco Fambul in Freetown, one of Sierra Leone’s leading child welfare organizations, has added staffing support thanks to a grant from the Flora Family Foundation secured by Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The Flora Family Foundation was established in 1998 by the family of William R. Hewlett (co-founder of the Hewlett-Packard Company) and his … Continue reading Don Bosco Fambul Expands Child-Welfare Work with Grant Secured by Salesian Missions

More Violence in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo – Salesians at the Service of the Needy

(ANS – Goma) – In the territory of Masisi, a few dozen kilometres from Goma, in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, clashes between the regular army and the rebels have intensified in recent days, with a consequent new and massive resumption of exoduses by huge masses of the population for fear of violence. The humanitarian situation is serious and risks worsening further … Continue reading More Violence in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo – Salesians at the Service of the Needy

The Team Visit to the Africa-Madagascar Region

Kigali, Rwanda – February 2024 – The Team Visit to the Africa-Madagascar Region has begun, following the pilgrimage on 19 February, carried out as a moment of spiritual preparation by the Superiors of the 15 Salesian circumscriptions in the Africa-Madagascar Region, accompanied by their Provincial Councillors and led by the Regional Councillor, Fr Alphonse Owoudou. From 20 to 23 February, the entire General Council of … Continue reading The Team Visit to the Africa-Madagascar Region

Eco-Spiritual Lent Calendar 2024

(ANS – Rome) – This year too, the Youth Ministry Sector is offering an item to help experience an eco-spiritual Lent. The title of the Lent Calendar 2024 is “Your face, Lord, I seek.” The guide this year will be the Psalms, particularly the Psalms of Creation. The Psalms, in fact, guide us to seek the light, the face of the Lord, but also to inhabit … Continue reading Eco-Spiritual Lent Calendar 2024

The Rector Major of the Salesians Has Arrived in the Country and Has Begun His Animation Visit

(ANS – Santo Domingo) – Coming from the Northeast of Brazil, where he had celebrated the Feast of Don Bosco and paid tribute to the Servant of God Father Cícero Romão Batista, whom he proclaimed a Salesian Cooperator, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, landed on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 in Santo Domingo, to carry out an Animation Visit to … Continue reading The Rector Major of the Salesians Has Arrived in the Country and Has Begun His Animation Visit

The Salesian Project Tijuana Consolidates Networking for Refugees and Migrants

(ANS – Tijuana) – On January 26, 2024, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Mexican Refugee Aid Commission (COMAR), and the Salesian Project Tijuana (PST) reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together on behalf of refugees and migrants in the city of Tijuana, on the border with the United States. Over the last three years, a center called the “Multiservice Center” has been … Continue reading The Salesian Project Tijuana Consolidates Networking for Refugees and Migrants

Pope Urges Consecrated Men and Women to Make Room for God’s Action

By Linda Bordoni (ANS – Vatican City) – Pope Francis celebrates Mass on the World Day for Consecrated Life, highlighting the importance of perseverance and asking for the courage to make room for God’s action. As the Church marks the 28th World Day for Consecrated Life on Friday, Pope Francis has encouraged the world’s religious men and women to always be open to being moved by … Continue reading Pope Urges Consecrated Men and Women to Make Room for God’s Action

In the Service of the Mission towards Peace: Nourished by Wisdom, in Service and Fraternity

(ANS – Rome) – The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Rome had the unique grace of welcoming over 400 religious from all over the world who had come to Rome to participate in a pilgrimage “on the road to peace” aimed at renewing the commitment of religious to reconciliation and peace. The entire schedule was inaugurated today, Saturday, 3 February, at 08:30, with … Continue reading In the Service of the Mission towards Peace: Nourished by Wisdom, in Service and Fraternity

Consecrated Men and Women Towards Jubilee 2025: a Pentecost of Fraternity and a Mandate for Reconciliation in the World

(ANS – Rome) – The stage of the preparation in view of the 2025 Jubilee at Rome for the consecrated men and women ended on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Comprising various significant moments, including the pilgrimage to the Salesian Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Rome, it gathered about 400 religious from all over the world, who received from the Holy Father the specific mandate to … Continue reading Consecrated Men and Women Towards Jubilee 2025: a Pentecost of Fraternity and a Mandate for Reconciliation in the World

The Perpetual Profession of Three Young Salesians Marks the Last Day of the Rector Major’s visit to Juazeiro do Norte

(ANS – Juazeiro do Norte) – The final meetings of Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, took place at Juazeiro do Norte in the Brazilian State of Ceará on Sunday, February 4, 2024. It was the sixth and final day of the Animation Visit to the St Aloysius Gonzaga Salesian Province of Brazil-Recife (BRE). The 10th Successor of Don Bosco … Continue reading The Perpetual Profession of Three Young Salesians Marks the Last Day of the Rector Major’s visit to Juazeiro do Norte

Celebration of the Feast of Don Bosco

Hong Kong – January 2024 – It is now a decades-long tradition that the House of Salesian Studies in Hong Kong invites the Holy Spirit” Seminary and all students and professors from the College of Theology and Philosophy of the Seminary to participate in the celebration of the Feast of Don Bosco. The joint celebration dates back to the time when the Salesians began sending … Continue reading Celebration of the Feast of Don Bosco

Muslim Students Dreaming with Don Bosco

By Fr. John Laba, SDB (ANS – Tigaraksa ) – The Salesian of Don Bosco in Tigaraksa Community, located in Tangerang Regency, Indonesia, is known as a formation house in INA Vice Province. There is also a training center called Balai Latihan Kerja Salesian Don Bosco, a Salesian concrete ministry for young people in Indonesia in accordance with the Salesian spirit. The Salesian Don Bosco Training … Continue reading Muslim Students Dreaming with Don Bosco

And the Star Stopped Over a Wheelchair

Encounters on Epiphany with wonderful people with a good heart and a radiant faith By Ángel Cardinal Fernández Artime Dear friends of the Salesian Bulletin, together with my affectionate greetings, I offer you my best wishes for the New Year 2024 that we have just begun. I sincerely hope that it will be a year filled with God’s presence in our lives and rich in … Continue reading And the Star Stopped Over a Wheelchair

Indigenous People speak up at VOICES, Cambodia

(ANS – Kep) – The Social Communication team of the Cambodia Salesian delegation of the province of Thailand organized a two-day innovative program, “VOICES,” at Don Bosco Kep (a technical school and children center at the southeast seacoast of Cambodia) on the 27 and 28 of January with the participation of representatives from 8 indigenous groups. As a continuation of the second version of the “Voices” … Continue reading Indigenous People speak up at VOICES, Cambodia

Don Bosco and young people. Fr. Costa: “Fight loneliness and give hope for life”

(ANS – Rome) – “Hope is a dimension of faith and can give meaning to daily life. We must make people understand the value of a life lived from the perspective of a project to be carried out with others and among these a friendly, personal, and merciful God.” This is how Fr Joseph Costa, co-spokesperson of the Salesian Congregation, spoke on the day commemorating Saint … Continue reading Don Bosco and young people. Fr. Costa: “Fight loneliness and give hope for life”

 A Video Brings Together 20 Posters to Remember Don Bosco and His Most Famous Sayings

Rome, RMG – January 31, 2024 – The Salesian Congregation’s Sector for Social Communication, on the occasion of the feast of St John Bosco, has made videos in several languages that present 20 graphics on some of the most famous sayings of Don Bosco. The videos are available on ANSChannel‘s language channels, on YouTube. Continue reading  A Video Brings Together 20 Posters to Remember Don Bosco and His Most Famous Sayings

20 Posters to Remember Don Bosco and His Most Famous Sayings

(ANS – Rome) – Don Bosco, a man of prayer and action, not only laid the foundations of an immense movement of people who, throughout the centuries, have dedicated themselves to the salvation of the young, but he also left all his spiritual children a great wealth of useful, indications for never losing one’s way. Between what he used to say and what was later picked … Continue reading 20 Posters to Remember Don Bosco and His Most Famous Sayings

Cardinal Fernández Artime: ‘Young People Today Need Witnesses Above All

(ANS – Rome) – To commemorate the feast of Don Bosco, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, gave an interview to the journalist Fabio Marchese Ragona from the Mediaset group in front of the Basilica of St. Peter at the Vatican. Topics such as young people, the Congregation, Don Bosco, the Church, the role of the laity, the life of a witness, his … Continue reading Cardinal Fernández Artime: ‘Young People Today Need Witnesses Above All

Salesian Mission Day 2024: “BUILDERS OF DIALOGUE”

(ANS – Rome) – As has been a tradition for some years, on the day we celebrate St. Francis of Sales, the theme for Mission Day is launched, “Builders of Dialogue.” After having seen collaboration with Social Communication and Youth Ministry, this year it is Formation that has made a fundamental contribution to this journey. Dialogue is inescapable in our Salesian mission and is one of … Continue reading Salesian Mission Day 2024: “BUILDERS OF DIALOGUE”

Young People, the Digital World and Youth Ministry: the Second Part of the Interview with Fr Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication

(ANS – Turin) – For readers of ANS, herewith is the second part of the interview that the General Councillor for Social Communication, Fr Gildasio Mendes, gave to Fr Bruno Ferrero, Salesian Bulletin Editor, and which has been published in recent days in the Note di Pastorale Giovanile (NPG) magazine. In this second series of questions, the General Councillor addresses some of the challenges that the web poses … Continue reading Young People, the Digital World and Youth Ministry: the Second Part of the Interview with Fr Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication

Don Bosco the Dreamer: The Ten Diamonds

(ANS – Rome) – A perennial warning for the Salesian Congregation and all its sons, never to lose sight of what should be the characteristics and attitudes in their actions to please God and serve our brothers and sisters: this is how Don Bosco interpreted another of his most famous dreams, that of the ten diamonds (Biographical Memoirs XV, 148-151), which took place in September 1881: … Continue reading Don Bosco the Dreamer: The Ten Diamonds

Don Bosco the Dreamer: the First Missionary Dream

(ANS– Rome) – After recalling some of Don Bosco’s famous dreams with a clearly educational and pedagogical value, today begins the mini-cycle of three events dedicated to rediscovering the “missionary” dreams of the holy founder of the Salesian Congregation. Given the development of the Society he founded, the countless works started and carried out with the collaboration of many other men and women religious and lay … Continue reading Don Bosco the Dreamer: the First Missionary Dream

Young People, Youth Ministry and the Digital World: An Interview with Fr Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication

(ANS – Turin) – Over recent days, Fr Bruno Ferrero, Editor of the Italian Salesian Bulletin, interviewed the General Councillor for Social Communication, Fr Gildasio Mendes, discussing topics of great importance and topicality. The first part of this interesting and articulate interview, published in the magazine Note di Pastorale Giovanile (NPG), is offered today to ANS readers. Multitasking, the simultaneous use of different media, has increased on average … Continue reading Young People, Youth Ministry and the Digital World: An Interview with Fr Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication

Don Bosco the Dreamer: the Dream of the Snake and the Rosary

(ANS – Rome) – Many of the dreams that Don Bosco told his boys had obviously educational purposes, so much so that very often, not even his biographers were able to clearly demarcate the boundary between dream, vision, and pedagogical storytelling. Among these, we can certainly include the one known as “the dream of the snake and the rosary” (Biographical Memoirs – VII 141-145). Occurring in … Continue reading Don Bosco the Dreamer: the Dream of the Snake and the Rosary

Don Bosco’s Dreams: A Novena to Get to Know Them, Deepen Them and Receive New Energy

(ANS – Rome) – The novena begins today, 22 January, in preparation for the feast of the Father and Teacher of Youth, St John Bosco. In this bicentenary year of the Dream at Nine years of Age, the Salesian iNfo Agency would like to accompany this journey of preparation, following up on his countless “dreams” to let us once again be guided by Don Bosco and … Continue reading Don Bosco’s Dreams: A Novena to Get to Know Them, Deepen Them and Receive New Energy

Don Bosco’s Apostolic Energy Urges His Sons, and the by Now Mature Salesian Family Follows Him… “Literally”

(ANS – Turin) – The Eucharistic celebration presided over by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major, opened the 4th day of the Salesian Family meeting in Valdocco. “The presence here of many Salesians of Don Bosco from various continents, of the Salesian Family with the Major Superiors, Coordinators and World Presidents of the groups,” he stressed, “is a very strong symbol of Don Bosco’s family, also … Continue reading Don Bosco’s Apostolic Energy Urges His Sons, and the by Now Mature Salesian Family Follows Him… “Literally”

A Year in Numbers: ANS 2023, at the Service of the Communication of Don Bosco’s Mission

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Info Agency (ANS) is the Agency that deals with making the world aware of what good is done in the world in the name of Don Bosco. It is by constitution a “communication organ of the Salesian Congregation,” and for 74 years – with various changes of denominations and locations – it has made its mission to support to the … Continue reading A Year in Numbers: ANS 2023, at the Service of the Communication of Don Bosco’s Mission

“Artificial Intelligence and Wisdom of the Heart: for a Fully Human Communication”: The Holy Father’s Message for the 58th World Day of Social Communications

(ANS – Vatican City) – On the occasion of the feast of Saint Francis de Sales, Patron of Journalists, the Holy See Press Office has published the Holy Father’s Message for the 58th World Day of Social Communications, which this year will be celebrated in many countries on May 12, 2024. The theme chosen this year by Pope Francis, already announced on September 29, 2023, is … Continue reading “Artificial Intelligence and Wisdom of the Heart: for a Fully Human Communication”: The Holy Father’s Message for the 58th World Day of Social Communications

Saint Francis de Sales, Who Inspires the Salesian Charism and Is a Model of Humanism for Don Bosco

January 24, 2024 (ANS – Rome) – The Oratory of St Francis de Sales was the small seed for the great Salesian work. With the small group of children and young people who were the oratory, Don Bosco founded the new religious congregation, which he placed under the protection and patronage of Saint Francis de Sales so as to give its members the name “Salesians.” Saint … Continue reading Saint Francis de Sales, Who Inspires the Salesian Charism and Is a Model of Humanism for Don Bosco

Spain – Bringing Hope Where It Serves and Building Peace: Missionary Goals for the New Year

(ANS – Madrid) – A new year has just begun, which opens with the month of Don Bosco, the celebration of the bicentenary of his prophetic dream at the age of nine and the number 24 to remember the constant presence of Mary Help of Christians. With all these incentives Misiones Salesianas, the Salesian Mission Office based in Madrid, is launching an invitation to keep Don Bosco’s … Continue reading Spain – Bringing Hope Where It Serves and Building Peace: Missionary Goals for the New Year

United States – “Salesian Missions” welcome its New Director: Fr Mike Conway

(ANS – New Rochelle) – Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, appointed Father Michael Conway as new director of Salesian Missions. Fr. Mike immediately succeeds Father Timothy Ploch, who faithfully and effectively served as interim director for the past 12 months—a role he assumed following Fr. Gus Baek’s unexpected passing in December 2022. Fr Conway was born on 11 August … Continue reading United States – “Salesian Missions” welcome its New Director: Fr Mike Conway

A Year of Dreams from on High

THE RECTOR MAJOR’S MESSAGE, Card. Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB Dear friends: we are at the threshold of a new year, 2024, a truly special year because we remember the bicentennial of Don Bosco’s dream at age nine. This dream was much more than a pleasant episode in the life of a nine-year-old boy; it was like a dream-vision and a premonition of what he was to do in … Continue reading A Year of Dreams from on High

RMG – “Salesians 2023”: A video to remember and raise awareness of the Salesian mission in action in the past year

Editor’s Note: At the 9:12 time frame you will find video highlights of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival, hosted by the USA Western Province in Los Angeles. (ANS – Rome) – 2023 was full of blessings, intense activities and significant events for the Salesian Congregation. With its 13,958 Salesians present in 136 countries and the other thousands and thousands of consecrated and lay members … Continue reading RMG – “Salesians 2023”: A video to remember and raise awareness of the Salesian mission in action in the past year

“The Dream That Makes You Dream”: A Salesian Reading of the Strenna by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime

(ANS – Turin) – The presentation of the Strenna of this year based on the Dream of Don Bosco, when he was nine years old, was held on Monday, 8th January 2024 at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians at Turin. The significant moment offered by the author of the Strenna, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major of the Salesians, turned out to … Continue reading “The Dream That Makes You Dream”: A Salesian Reading of the Strenna by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime

The text of the Strenna 2024: “The dream that makes you dream”. A heart that transforms “wolves” into “lambs”

(ANS – Rome) – The text of Strenna 2024 is available: “The dream that makes you dream” A heart that transforms “wolves” into “lambs” which, as the Rector Major, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, explains, “represents a beautiful summary that presents the essence of what the dream at nine years of age is in its simplicity and prophecy, in its charismatic and educational value.” The text of the Strenna … Continue reading The text of the Strenna 2024: “The dream that makes you dream”. A heart that transforms “wolves” into “lambs”

The Rector Major, Cardinal Ángel unveils the theme of the Strenna 2024

(ANS – Rome) – The much-awaited Strenna Presentation of the Rector Major with its premiere screening took place at the Generalate of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Rome, on Wednesday, 27 December, at 5 pm. Hundreds of Salesian Sisters, Salesians, Members of the Salesian Family and young people were present to participate and treasure this important annual appointment close to the heart of everyone. … Continue reading The Rector Major, Cardinal Ángel unveils the theme of the Strenna 2024

The Strennas of the Salesian Rectors Major: Cardinal Fernández Artime

(ANS – Rome) – On the day of the official presentation of the final Strenna in Fr. Ángel Fernández Artime’s term of office, now that he has become a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church for a few months, ANS concludes its retrospective look at the Strenna of Don Bosco and his ten successors so far. Therefore, if 2024 will open under the banner of the … Continue reading The Strennas of the Salesian Rectors Major: Cardinal Fernández Artime

Mamma Margaret’s Basket

By Cardinal Angel Fernandez Artime, SDB Dear friends of Don Bosco and his charism, At the close of this year, 2023, it seemed interesting to me to use the basket that Mamma Margaret always carries on her arm as a symbol. Even in the new strenna poster, her hallmark is the basket hanging from her arm. We are all used to seeing Mamma Margaret like this. Without the … Continue reading Mamma Margaret’s Basket

Card. Fernández Artime Takes Possession of the Deaconry of Mary Help of Christians

(ANS – Rome) – Sunday, December 17, 2023, the Third Sunday of Advent, was a day of celebration for the Minor Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Rome, due to the taking possession of the deaconry assigned to Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco. In a modest and dignified celebration that was both genuine and full of enthusiasm, the … Continue reading Card. Fernández Artime Takes Possession of the Deaconry of Mary Help of Christians

Rector Major’s Missionary Appeal for 2024

(ANS – Rome) – 164 years ago, on December 18, 1859, with 17 members, Don Bosco founded the Salesian Congregation with the name of the “Pious Society of Saint Francis de Sales”. Since 1859, the Salesian Society has spread all across the five continents. This year the Salesians have opened a new presence in Niger and Botswana. Thus, to remember that the spirit and missionary commitment … Continue reading Rector Major’s Missionary Appeal for 2024

The Salesian Congregation turns 164 this Week

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesians of Don Bosco celebrate 164 years of existence this Monday, December 18th. The Salesian Congregation came into existence on December 18, 1859 in Turin, with seventeen young people in addition to the founder, John Bosco, and with the name of the “Pious Society of Saint Francis de Sales”. Since then it has continued to grow and spread throughout the five … Continue reading The Salesian Congregation turns 164 this Week

Incarnated for Our Salvation!

By Fr. Alfred Maravilla, SDB Mission Councilor (ANS – Rome) – In this Advent season, the missionary reflection for the 11th of the month by the General Councillor for the Missions, Fr. Alfred Maravilla, addresses a complex, but fundamental topic:”salvation”. The Creed we recite every Sunday resounds in a special way as we approach Christmas: “For us and for our salvation He … was incarnate … Continue reading Incarnated for Our Salvation!

Int’l Migrants Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Programs that Support Young Migrants

From Salesian Missions (ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and the international community in honoring International Migrants Day. Each year, International Migrants Day is held on Dec. 18 to recognize the efforts, contributions, and rights of migrants worldwide. About 184 million people — 2.3% of the world’s population — live outside of … Continue reading Int’l Migrants Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Programs that Support Young Migrants

Inspiring Educational Retreat at Plaza Educativa Don Bosco in the Dominican Republic

By Jc Montenegro, Ph.D In the heart of the Dominican Republic, “Plaza Educativa Don Bosco,” housing four distinct educational institutions, recently hosted a transformative retreat centered around unveiling the Rector Major’s strenna, “The Dream that Makes Us Dream.”  Our Province Mission Animation Delegate helped facilitate this retreat.  More than 700 young minds and 300 educators were given a unique opportunity to reflect on the Dream … Continue reading Inspiring Educational Retreat at Plaza Educativa Don Bosco in the Dominican Republic

The Strenne of the Salesian Rectors Major: A Journey through Time

(ANS – Rome) – The tradition of the Strenne (strenna in the plural) of the Rectors Major of the Salesian Congregation are a particular aspect of Don Bosco’s legacy. This long-standing gesture of care and attention of a Father towards his spiritual sons and daughters has evolved over the decades, being enriched with tools and means to better spread the meaning of its message, but it has kept … Continue reading The Strenne of the Salesian Rectors Major: A Journey through Time

The Strenne of the Salesian Rectors Major: Don Bosco

(ANS – Rome) – The initiator of the Strenna (New Year Message) tradition in the Salesian Family was, of course, Don Bosco. Already at that time the strenna had a message of pedagogical and educational value and Don Bosco also used to take up the theme during the year, on several occasions, in meetings with his boys, just as today the strenna accompanies the entire course of the … Continue reading The Strenne of the Salesian Rectors Major: Don Bosco

Salesian Missionary Léopold Feyen Killed in Kinshasa

(ANS – Kinshasa) – Salesian Father Léopold Feyen, 82, was killed last Tuesday, December 12th, in the municipality of Masina, in the area of Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The priest was found dead in his room, in the parish of Mary Help of Christians. Léopold Feyen was born in Hechtel, Belgium, on August 19, 1941. In 1961 he made his First … Continue reading Salesian Missionary Léopold Feyen Killed in Kinshasa

Painting of Mary Immaculate Commissioned by Don Bosco

By Fr. Mike Pace, SDB, Casa Don Bosco Museum (ANS – Turin) – Of the many treasures found in the new Casa Don Bosco Museum, at Valdocco in Turin, the painting of the Immaculate Conception remains a precious jewel. This painting of Mary Immaculate, was very much envisioned and commissioned by Don Bosco in 1882 for St. John the Evangelist Church at his second Oratory, dedicated … Continue reading Painting of Mary Immaculate Commissioned by Don Bosco

Human Rights Day: The Salesian Educational and Social Programs for Youth

From Salesian Missions (ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and the international community in honoring Human Rights Day, celebrated each year on Dec. 10. Human Rights Day commemorates the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was … Continue reading Human Rights Day: The Salesian Educational and Social Programs for Youth

The New Document on the Oratory – Salesian Youth Center

(ANS – Rome) – Don Bosco himself, in his Memoirs of the Oratory, tells how the Oratory began on December 8, 1841: “with a simple Hail Mary”. Since then, for the Salesians, the celebration of the Immaculate Conception and the commemoration of the beginning of the Salesian Oratory are inseparable. However, it was not a formal beginning, an opening of buildings or the start of work … Continue reading The New Document on the Oratory – Salesian Youth Center

Conference of Italian Missionaries: ‘The Person at the Center’

(ANS – Rome) – The Conference of Italian Missionaries entitled “The Person at the Centre” was held on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The event, coordinated by the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, and by the government’s special envoy for religious freedom, Davide Dionisi, was attended by representatives of numerous missionary congregations … Continue reading Conference of Italian Missionaries: ‘The Person at the Center’

December 8, 1841: The Birthday of the Salesian Mission

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian tradition recalls December 8, 1841 as the day on which the Salesian Oratory or the Salesian mission was born. Don Bosco himself has shared this experience and affirmed convincingly, “All of our great initiatives began on the day of the Immaculate”. According to the story that most of us are familiar with, Don Bosco was preparing to celebrate the feast-day … Continue reading December 8, 1841: The Birthday of the Salesian Mission

Salesian Cooperators Formation Meeting

(ANS) – The Salesian Cooperators from the Interamerica Region held the third and final regional formation meeting for 2023 online in on Sunday, November 26, 2023. The topic for the meeting was “The Salesian lay dimension today: Don Bosco’s dream 150 years later!”, and was explored by Antonio Boccia, World Coordinator of the Association of Salesian Cooperators. Juanita Silva, regional head of formation, welcomed all the … Continue reading Salesian Cooperators Formation Meeting

Pope Francis Urges Religious Leaders to Work Together for Peace and Climate

By Francesca Merlo Photo from Vatican Media (ANS – Vatican City) – Pope Francis sends a video message for the inauguration of the “Faith Pavilion” during COP28 in Dubai, and highlights the need for alliances that promote care for creation and peace. At the heart of Pope Francis’ video message to Dubai for the inauguration of the “COP28 Faith Pavilion” is the idea of creating alliances … Continue reading Pope Francis Urges Religious Leaders to Work Together for Peace and Climate

“Sharing Our Life and Faith Journey in the Digital World”

(ANS – Rome) – The Sector for Social Communication of the Salesian Congregation is launching this year the new project of the “Don Bosco Digital Forum”: a new platform and channel for listening, dialogue and participation with the Delegates for Social Communication and especially with the young people directly involved in the Communication of Salesian Provinces and Vice provinces all over the world. The ultimate goal of … Continue reading “Sharing Our Life and Faith Journey in the Digital World”

The Youth of Today, the Great Educational Challenge

(ANS – Turin) – In the beautiful setting of the Sanctuary of the Consolata in Turin, the most important sanctuary of the city and the Archdiocese, the much-awaited meeting of the people with Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, took place on the evening of Monday December 4th. The event served to reflect together on the theme: “The Youth of … Continue reading The Youth of Today, the Great Educational Challenge

Getting Ready for the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Meeting in March 2024

(ANS – Rome) – In November 2023, three different meetings were held at the congregational level in preparation for the worldwide meeting for those involved in SMV. These meetings brought together participants from various regions to discuss the challenges and expectations related to volunteerism in preparation to the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Meeting in March 2024. The meeting aimed to create a network, foster collaboration, and analyze … Continue reading Getting Ready for the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Meeting in March 2024

World Aids Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Programs that Support Youth with HIV/AIDS

From Salesian Missions (ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and countries around the globe in honoring World AIDS Day celebrated each year on Dec. 1. The day is held to honor AIDS victims and focuses on prevention and treatment issues surrounding HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). World … Continue reading World Aids Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Programs that Support Youth with HIV/AIDS

4 Thematic Spiritual Retreats to Reconcile with Ourselves, with Others, with Creation and with God

(ANS – Rome) – Ecology and spirituality are two sides of the same coin. The loss of spirituality is also reflected in ecological degradation. There is, in fact, a ‘desacralisation’ of creation. And in the face of such a great desacralisation of the planet, the universe and the soul, which is at the root of the great ecological outrage, only the recovery of a sense of … Continue reading 4 Thematic Spiritual Retreats to Reconcile with Ourselves, with Others, with Creation and with God

“COP28”: The Youth Ministry Sector and DBI Invite You to Pray for COP28 and the Pope

(ANS – Rome) – On Thursday November 30, the “COP28” (28th Conference of the Parties) began in Dubai, in the UAE, which will last until December 12th: an important climate conference attended by representatives from over 190 countries of the world and 200 private companies and civil society organizations. For the occasion, the Sector for Youth Ministry of the Salesian Congregation and “Don Bosco International” … Continue reading “COP28”: The Youth Ministry Sector and DBI Invite You to Pray for COP28 and the Pope

‘It’s Chapter Time 28’: Video of the Sixth Programmatic Line Available Online

(ANS – Rome) – The sixth video in the series “It’s time for Chapter 28”, in which Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, illustrates the sixth Programmatic Line delivered after the 28th General Chapter: “TOGETHER WITH THE LAY PEOPLE IN THE MISSION AND FORMATION. The charismatic strength offered to us by the laity and the Salesian Family”. In the video, the Rector Major … Continue reading ‘It’s Chapter Time 28’: Video of the Sixth Programmatic Line Available Online

Mamma Margaret, the Key Figure in Don Bosco’s Vocation and the Beginning of the Salesians’ Work

(ANS – Rome) – On November 25th, the day of her birth into Heaven, the Salesian Family around the world remembers the figure of Margaret Occhiena, “Mamma Margaret”, as hundreds of children called her when she helped her son Don Bosco at the time of the first Oratory at Valdocco. Declared Venerable by Pope Benedict XVI in 2006, the mother of the founder of the … Continue reading Mamma Margaret, the Key Figure in Don Bosco’s Vocation and the Beginning of the Salesians’ Work

Salesian Family Spirituality Days 2024

(ANS – Rome) – With just over 50 days to go until the start of the Salesian Family Spirituality Days (GSFS) 2024 – scheduled to take place in Turin-Valdocco from January 18 to 21, 2024 – the Secretariat for the Salesian Family has released a short video in five languages inviting members of all groups to this great event of spirituality, communion and sharing. “Don Bosco … Continue reading Salesian Family Spirituality Days 2024

In Conversation with Fr. Gildasio Mendes, SDB

(ANS – Rome) – In the “Guidelines and Directives” section of the Acts of the General Council no. 440, for July-December 2023, a letter was published and signed by Fr. Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication, entitled: “Walking with young people in digital culture”. The document, motivated by the requests received from various parts of the Salesian world, is the result of a joint … Continue reading In Conversation with Fr. Gildasio Mendes, SDB

Salesian Musicians Promote Evangelization through the Arts

(ANS) – Twenty-five Salesian musicians engaged together from different countries in Latin America at an online meeting under the direction of Fr. Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication, on Friday, November 24, 2023, to coordinate actions and initiatives capable of promoting evangelization through music. For the first time, representatives of almost all the Spanish-speaking Provinces of America participated in a meeting of this kind, … Continue reading Salesian Musicians Promote Evangelization through the Arts

Greece: The New Salesian Frontier in Europe

(ANS – Rome) – On the 148th anniversary of the Salesian Missionary Expedition, Saturday November 11, 2023, Fr. Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for the Missions, announced that in the last winter session of the General Council the Rector Major, with the consent of his Council, accepted the invitation of Bishop Petros Stefanou, Catholic bishop of Syros, Santorini and Crete to open a Salesian presence in … Continue reading Greece: The New Salesian Frontier in Europe

World Children’s Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Social and Educational Programs

From Salesian Missions Photo from Salesian Missions (ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and countries around the globe in recognizing World Children’s Day, also known as Universal Children’s Day. Celebrated each year on November 20th, the day was established in 1954 to promote international togetherness and awareness on children’s issues worldwide. … Continue reading World Children’s Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Social and Educational Programs

Meeting of Communicators from the Salesian Provinces of America

(ANS – ECSA) – On Tuesday, November 14th, more than 90 men and women belonging to Salesian social communication in America shared a virtual meeting with Fr. Luis Timossi, Director of the Salesian Center for Ongoing Formation in America (CSFPA). On the occasion, Fr. Timossi offered keys to reading Don Bosco’s “Dream at Nine Years of Age”, whose bicentenary will be celebrated in 2024, highlighted by … Continue reading Meeting of Communicators from the Salesian Provinces of America

The Parish “without”: Study Seminar on the Salesian Parish

(ANS – Rome) – A study seminar on the Salesian parish entitled “The Parish for Those Without” was held from November 14 to 16, 2023, in Rome, at San Tarcisio. This term, “of those without”, comes from the experience of Don Bosco in 1847, when Archbishop Luigi Fransoni issued the formal decree authorizing him, “to instruct and admit to First Communion those young people who … Continue reading The Parish “without”: Study Seminar on the Salesian Parish

A Papal Appointment for Fr. Giordano Piccinotti SDB

(ANS – Vatican City) – On Wednesday, November 15, 2023, Pope Francis appointed Salesian Priest Giordano Piccinotti, President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See, as President of the Board of Directors and of the Foundation for Catholic Healthcare. The ‘Foundation for Catholic Healthcare’ is a ‘body linked to the Holy See’, a body that intervenes to support Catholic healthcare facilities, when … Continue reading A Papal Appointment for Fr. Giordano Piccinotti SDB

The Rector Major Celebrates His First Mass as Cardinal in His Hometown

By  Jesús Ángel Cid (ANS – Luanco) – The Rector Major of the Salesians, Fr. Ángel Fernández Artime, celebrated his first Mass as a Cardinal on All Saints’ Day in Luanco, his hometown, rendering this occasion a historical moment. Ever since his ordination to the priesthood in 1987, the inhabitants of Luanco and the other surrounding villages were used to attending Masses celebrated by Fr. … Continue reading The Rector Major Celebrates His First Mass as Cardinal in His Hometown

“Do Not be Afraid of New Technologies!”

(ANS – Rome) – “Do not be afraid of new technologies!” The words were from John Paul II in 2005, in his Apostolic Letter, “The Rapid Development”. Fr. Maciej Makuła, a member of the Social Communication Sector, used these words to title his latest work, a series of contributions on Communication in the Church and in the Salesian Family. The Pope, as Fr. Makuła explains, repeats … Continue reading “Do Not be Afraid of New Technologies!”

A Bomb Hits the House of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Sudan

Photo courtesy of Agenzia Info Salesiana (ANS) (ANS – Karthoum) – On Friday, November 3, 2023, at 6:50 am, a large bomb hit the Dar Mariam house of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) in Karthoum, Sudan, causing serious damage and some minor injuries, but sparing the lives of the religious and other people in the complex. The FMA house is located in … Continue reading A Bomb Hits the House of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Sudan

November 11, 2023: Salesian Missions Celebrate 148 Years

(ANS – Rome) – November 11th is an unforgettable date for all the Salesians around the world: the day the Congregation began its missionary thrust – a journey that began 148 years ago, on November 11, 1875 with the First Salesian Missionary Expedition, and which has no intention of stopping. Indeed, the entire Congregation is looking forward to the 150th anniversary of that date which … Continue reading November 11, 2023: Salesian Missions Celebrate 148 Years

Meeting of the Presidency of the Salesian History Association (ACSSA)

(ANS – Rome) –  The ACSSA World Presidency meeting took place in Rome on October 28-29th, 2023. All the Regional Councillors of the Association met in Rome for the occasion, except for South Asia, physically absent for bureaucratic reasons, but who took part remotely. Therefore, the following were present: Sister Maria Maul, Daughter of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), President; Sister Maria Imaculada Da Silva, … Continue reading Meeting of the Presidency of the Salesian History Association (ACSSA)

Pope: Love of God and Neighbor is the Heart of Everything

(ANS – Vatican City) – At the closing Mass of the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, Pope Francis speaks of the “conversation of the Spirit,” experienced in “the loving presence of the Lord” and discovered in “the beauty of fraternity.” Highlighting the “conversation of the Spirit” experienced at the Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, Pope Francis presided over the closing … Continue reading Pope: Love of God and Neighbor is the Heart of Everything

Winners of the 2024 Strenna Poster Competition Announced

(ANS – Rome) – Inspired by the message of hope and confidence in the young people of Don Bosco’s Dream at the age of 9, as many as 30 artists from all over the world took part in the worldwide competition to identify the Poster for the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2024. And after months of feverish work and careful research and selection, the winner … Continue reading Winners of the 2024 Strenna Poster Competition Announced

The Mission in 5 Words: By the Rector Major of the Salesians

(ANS – Rome) – From today, October 25, 2023, a new format which aims to streamline the Rector Major’s video messages “In 5 words” is launched.  It will enable a quicker communication, which is more social and closer to young people, without distorting the content of the message but at the same time will make them more pleasant and comforting for the wider audiences. Each … Continue reading The Mission in 5 Words: By the Rector Major of the Salesians

New Cardinals: In Conversation with the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB

(ANS – Rome) – He would have had an excellent chance to successfully pursue studies in medicine at university, with a scholarship already prepared for the occasion. Instead – at the end of his Higher Secondary studies – he felt the religious call, became a Salesian… with assignments of increasing responsibility until in 2014 when he was chosen as the 10th successor of Don Bosco, … Continue reading New Cardinals: In Conversation with the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB

Inauguration of ‘Don Bosco Tech Europe’ Salesian Network

(ANS – Rome) – On Friday, October 20, 2023, the Salesian network ‘Don Bosco Tech Europe’ (DB Tech Europe) was inaugurated at the Grand Hotel Palatino in Via Cavour, Rome, in the presence of over 100 people and the presence of Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians. The ‘DB Tech Europe’ network is a coordination and development network in the field of … Continue reading Inauguration of ‘Don Bosco Tech Europe’ Salesian Network

DBGYFF Concludes in Los Angeles, California

(ANS – Los Angeles) – The grand finale of DBGYFF in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world took place on Friday evening, October 13th at the Salesian Family Youth Center, with the participation of noted dignitaries, young people and the announcement of the global winners of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival, season 2.   While in more than 200 locations of almost … Continue reading DBGYFF Concludes in Los Angeles, California

Salesian Youth Synod 2024, on the Occasion of the Dream at Nine Years of Age

(ANS – Rome) – On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Don Bosco’s Dream at nine years of age, the Youth Ministry Sector is promoting the Salesian Youth Synod 2024, from August 11 to 16th at Colle Don Bosco. Don Bosco was a daydreamer, like all the prophets who see far and look to the future with hope. Starting with the Dream when he … Continue reading Salesian Youth Synod 2024, on the Occasion of the Dream at Nine Years of Age

First Mass as Cardinal at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin for the Rector Major, Fr. Á.F. Artime

(ANS – Turin) – “I continue to be the Salesian I always was, even if now with a responsibility that is no longer only for the Salesians, but for the Church.” These words, spoken on the sidelines of the First Mass celebrated by him in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin as Cardinal, on Sunday October 15, 2023, well express the warmth … Continue reading First Mass as Cardinal at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin for the Rector Major, Fr. Á.F. Artime

Women and Girls Face Extreme Poverty, Says New Report

Photo: Burkina Faso (ANS – New Rochelle) –  More than 340 million women and girls will live in extreme poverty by 2030 and close to one in four will experience moderate or severe food insecurity, according to the recent “Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The gender snapshot 2023” report released by UN Women and United Nations Department on Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). … Continue reading Women and Girls Face Extreme Poverty, Says New Report

DBGYFF 2023: A Week of Waiting, Preparations and Enthusiasm

(ANS – Rome) – With just days to go before the start of the international screenings of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF), expectations are growing throughout the Salesian Family at a global level for what promises to be a great celebration of young people, their talents and their being ambassadors of a message of hope for the world. “Love builds peace and … Continue reading DBGYFF 2023: A Week of Waiting, Preparations and Enthusiasm

From Missionary Animation an Invitation to Prayer for the Holy Land

(ANS – Rome) – Italy’s Salesian National Office of Missionary Animation, following the worrying situation in the Middle East, is launching an invitation to once more and together invoke “Pacem in Terris”, on October 11th, the liturgical memorial of Saint John XXIII. With a letter sent on Monday October 9th to all Salesians of Italy, and as a sign of closeness to the Superior of … Continue reading From Missionary Animation an Invitation to Prayer for the Holy Land

Opening of the Exhibition Entitled “Images of a Vanished World. Fr. Alberto De Agostini. Man, Nature, Art, Science”

(ANS – Turin) – From October 24th to December 24, 2023, the Casa Don Bosco Museum in Valdocco, Turin will host the traveling exhibition entitled “Images of a vanished world. Fr. Alberto De Agostini. Man, nature, art, science”, curated by Prof. (Fr.) Francesco Motto, SDB, from the Salesian Historical Institute in Rome, and Prof. Nicola Bottiglieri, from the University of Cassino. The inaugural event of … Continue reading Opening of the Exhibition Entitled “Images of a Vanished World. Fr. Alberto De Agostini. Man, Nature, Art, Science”

European Institutions Open their Doors to the “Canillitas” Documentary and its Protagonists

(ANS – Brussels) – Two days in Brussels, with a full agenda of meetings and presentations organized by Don Bosco International (DBI), brought the documentary “Canillitas” and its protagonists to the heart of the European institutions. The Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union, the Commission of the Episcopal Conferences of the European Union (EU), the European Commission, the European Parliament, the Embassy of the Dominican … Continue reading European Institutions Open their Doors to the “Canillitas” Documentary and its Protagonists

“Laudate Deum”: Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation on the Climate Crisis

(ANS – Rome) – On the day that the Universal Church celebrates St Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis published “Laudate Deum” – an Apostolic Exhortation on the climate crisis – to expand and update his first encyclical on the subject, Laudato Si ‘signed on May 24, 2015 and published on June 18, 2015. Therefore, the Pope returns strongly to one of the issues that most … Continue reading “Laudate Deum”: Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation on the Climate Crisis

A Day of Celebration for the Salesian Family: the Rector Major is a Cardinal

(ANS – Vatican City) – The Ordinary Public Consistory at St. Peter’s Square last Saturday morning, September 30, 2023, was indeed a celebration of the universality of the Church and a renewal of the thrust of evangelization, during which the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, was officially created Cardinal. There was great emotion for the entire Salesian Family … Continue reading A Day of Celebration for the Salesian Family: the Rector Major is a Cardinal

The Theme of the 29th General Chapter Officially Declared

(ANS – Rome) – On the occasion of the Salesian missionary expedition on Sunday, September 24, 2023, in Turin-Valdocco, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Fr. Ángel Fernández Artime, announced the theme of the 29th General Chapter (GC29): “Passionate for Jesus Christ, Dedicated to the Young – For a faithful and prophetic lived experience of our Salesian vocation.” “On the day when … Continue reading The Theme of the 29th General Chapter Officially Declared

Fr Giordano Piccinotti Appointed President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See

(ANS – Vatican City) – On Monday, October 2, 2023, the Holy See Press Office announced that Pope Francis has appointed Salesian Fr Giordano Piccinotti, until now Undersecretary of the same Curial Institution, as President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA). Giordano Piccinotti was born on February 23, 1975 in Manerbio, Italy. He made his novitiate in Pinerolo between 1997 … Continue reading Fr Giordano Piccinotti Appointed President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See

Fr Ángel Fernández Artime Becomes Cardinal: All Events Not to be Missed

(ANS – Rome) – After weeks of anticipation throughout the Salesian Family, this Saturday, September 30, 2023, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, will be solemnly created a cardinal by the Holy Father Pope Francis, as part of an Ordinary Public Consistory that will see the creation of 20 other cardinals including archbishops, bishops, patriarchs and priests. The ceremony, for the first … Continue reading Fr Ángel Fernández Artime Becomes Cardinal: All Events Not to be Missed

DBGYFF 2023: Full Steam Ahead to the Grand Finale

(ANS – Rome) – Since the second edition of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) was officially launched on January 31st, the work of the world-class Salesian youth film festival has proceeded silently but effectively. Now that the collection and first selection phases of the short films sent have been completed, the festival organization is preparing to coordinate the final stages, with the … Continue reading DBGYFF 2023: Full Steam Ahead to the Grand Finale

World Day of Migrants and Refugees: Salesian Missions Highlights Life-Changing Programs

(ANS – New Rochelle) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins Catholic organizations around the globe in honoring World Day of Migrants and Refugees. The day, celebrated on Sept. 24, will be the 109th celebration of the day, which was started in 1914 as a w ay to highlight and express concerns for vulnerable populations of people who have … Continue reading World Day of Migrants and Refugees: Salesian Missions Highlights Life-Changing Programs

Missionaries Being Sent in the 154th Salesian Missionary Expedition

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Missionary Expedition is not only a noble and ancient Salesian tradition, inherited directly from Don Bosco; rather, it is a moment of grace during which many young Salesians take their first steps to dedicate themselves even more generously to young people and to respond to the new needs of the Church and the world. This very important event will be … Continue reading Missionaries Being Sent in the 154th Salesian Missionary Expedition

Rediscovering the Sons of Don Bosco Who Became Cardinals: Tarcisio Bertone

(ANS – Rome) – The last Salesian created cardinal by Pope John Paul II was the then metropolitan archbishop of Genoa, Tarcisio Bertone, who later became a great colleague of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and then Vatican Secretary of State when the latter ascended to the papal throne with the name of Benedict XVI. Tarcisio Pietro Evasio Bertone was born in Romano Canavese, in Salesian Piedmont, on … Continue reading Rediscovering the Sons of Don Bosco Who Became Cardinals: Tarcisio Bertone

Salesian Cardinals in History

(ANS – Rome) – To the surprise of many – first and foremost, the person concerned – on July 9th Pope Francis appointed Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, Don Bosco’s 10th successor, a cardinal. The surprise concerned a purple assigned to a current Major Superior, and also the relatively young age of the chosen one (63). But it is not at all surprising that a Son … Continue reading Salesian Cardinals in History

Rediscovering the Sons of Don Bosco Who Became Cardinals: Giovanni Cagliero (1838-1926)

(ANS – Rome) – The first of all the Salesian Cardinals was Mgr. Giovanni Cagliero, a fellow countryman of Don Bosco, as he was born, like the Saint of Youth, in Castelnuovo d’Asti (today Castelnuovo Don Bosco). Born into a family of modest peasants on January 11, 1838, he met Don Bosco at the age of 13 and joined him at Valdocco, where he grew … Continue reading Rediscovering the Sons of Don Bosco Who Became Cardinals: Giovanni Cagliero (1838-1926)

What is the Future of the Church in the Metaverse?

(ANS – Rome) – What is the future of the Church in the Metaverse? This question opens the new contribution by Fr Maciej Makuła, SDB, member of the Social Communication Sector, author of the series of articles that revolve around the theme of Communication in the Church and in the Salesian Family. In September we are called to reflect on the role of the Church … Continue reading What is the Future of the Church in the Metaverse?

The Salesian Family in the ‘Circle of Saints’

(ANS – Turin) – ‘Here we make holiness consist in being very cheerful’, said St Dominic Savio, one of the first fruits of holiness that blossomed from Don Bosco: a dictate that the Salesian Family  made its own and manifested clearly in the climate of serene and joyful conviviality with which it gathered in the Mother House of Valdocco on the afternoon of Wednesday September … Continue reading The Salesian Family in the ‘Circle of Saints’

Fifty Years Ago, on September 11, 1973: Salesian Cardinal Raúl Silva Henríquez and the Agony of Chile

(ANS – Rome) – Luis Badilla recalls the Salesian Cardinal Raúl Silva Henríquez, a monumental figure in Latin American history and in particular in Chile. The cardinal, who died in April 1999 at the age of 92, is still very much loved and remembered not only in Chile, but in the memory of many Catholics and non-Catholics. It is impossible, as the director of the … Continue reading Fifty Years Ago, on September 11, 1973: Salesian Cardinal Raúl Silva Henríquez and the Agony of Chile

From Ecuador (ECU) to Mozambique (MOZ): Klimer Xavier Sanchez Carrion Salesian Missionary

(ANS – Rome) – Among the missionaries who will receive the Missionary Cross from the hands of the Rector Major on September 24 is a young Salesian in formation, Klimer Xavier Sánchez Carrión. The Ecuadorian, just 24 years old, is destined for the Salesian mission in Mozambique, and is not hiding the energy and enthusiasm that is driving him. Can you introduce yourself? I was … Continue reading From Ecuador (ECU) to Mozambique (MOZ): Klimer Xavier Sanchez Carrion Salesian Missionary

The Rector Major Presides over the Celebration of the Centenary of the Consecration of the Basilica of Jesus the Adolescent in Nazareth

(ANS – Nazareth) – The Salesian Family of the Holy Land and the Province of the Middle East (MOR) inaugurated the celebrations for the centenary of the consecration of the Basilica of Jesus the Adolescent in Nazareth, on Saturday and Sunday September 2-3, 2023. The celebrations were presided over directly by the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, accompanied by, among the many present, the … Continue reading The Rector Major Presides over the Celebration of the Centenary of the Consecration of the Basilica of Jesus the Adolescent in Nazareth

 “In the Circle of the Saints”: III Seminar for the Canonization and Beatification of the Salesian Family

(ANS – Rome) – The Third Seminar for the Promotion of the Causes of Beatification and Canonisation of the Salesian Family will take place in Turin at the Salesian Mother House from September 6 to 10th. It follows those organized in 2016 and 2018. One of the most beautiful fruits that has come from Don Bosco is the host of saints and candidates for holiness … Continue reading  “In the Circle of the Saints”: III Seminar for the Canonization and Beatification of the Salesian Family

Let Us Dream with Don Bosco

Young people gathered at the historical sites of Don Bosco (ANS – Turin) – With great joy, about 50 people participated in the event “Let us dream with Don Bosco”, accompanied by Salesian Fr Aisen Barbar. Many young people and families – from different European countries, but also from Canada, Australia and Lebanon and others still forced to leave their lands, in Syria and Iraq … Continue reading Let Us Dream with Don Bosco

Missionaries and Money

(ANS – Rome) – The August message of Fr Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for the Missions, helps us reflect on missionaries’ relationship with money. Money is an essential element of ordinary daily life. And like any other human endeavor, missionary activities need financial resources. Money is valuable and as such is a significant resource for the proclamation of the gospel to those who do not … Continue reading Missionaries and Money

New Salesian Representative at the UN to Carry on and Protect Most Needy in Institutional Forums

(ANS – Rome) – After five years of dedicated and attentive service as Representative of the Salesians of Don Bosco to the United Nations (UN), Fr Thomas Pallithanam has in recent weeks handed over to his Indian confrere Fr Mathew Thomas Panamkattu, who will replace him in this delicate and relevant position. On the occasion of this natural succession, the General Councillor for Youth Ministry, … Continue reading New Salesian Representative at the UN to Carry on and Protect Most Needy in Institutional Forums

A New Portrait of Don Bosco by Salesian Fr Jorge Mauchi has Been Found

(ANS – Lima) – Fr Jorge Mauchi, SDB (January 11, 1925 – August 23, 2018), maintained an authentic creative sanctuary in the Provincial House at Breña in Lima. His living room, a place steeped in inspiration, was where brushstrokes came to life and piano notes were transformed into celestial melodies. Recently, however, this mysterious room has been explored, revealing an unexpected artistic treasure: a work … Continue reading A New Portrait of Don Bosco by Salesian Fr Jorge Mauchi has Been Found

A Competition for the Strenna Poster for 2024

(ANS – Rome) – Following the announcement of the theme of the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2024, preparations are already underway at Salesian Headquarters to ensure that the message of the 10th Successor of Don Bosco for the bicentenary year of the “dream at 9 years of age” is conveyed in the most effective and fascinating way possible. That is why the Social Communication Sector, … Continue reading A Competition for the Strenna Poster for 2024

The Rector Major Paid Homage to Castelnuovo Don Bosco, the Hill of Blessing

(ANS – Turin) – On August 16, 2023, at Castelnuovo Don Bosco, young people from different parts of the world (Hong Kong, Hungary, Nicaragua, Italy, the Philippines, etc.) and pilgrims, friends and benefactors, took part in the celebrations of the 208th anniversary of the birth of Don Bosco. Fr. Ezio Orsini, Rector of the Basilica, welcomed the Rector Major, the concelebrants, the young people and … Continue reading The Rector Major Paid Homage to Castelnuovo Don Bosco, the Hill of Blessing