By Bro. Al Vu, SDB, Province Coordinator of Schools

(Los Angeles, California) – On Monday, January 6, 2025, over 230 Salesian educators from our five high schools of the Salesian Network of Schools USA West gathered across two regions—Northern and Southern California—for a day of reflection, learning, and community. The event was organized to focus on the theme of the 2025 Salesian Strenna and to explore how Salesian educators are called to accompany the young in their journey of faith, education, and personal growth.

In the North, the gathering took place at Camp St. Francis in Aptos, while in the South, the Don Bosco Mission Center in Boyle Heights served as the venue for the event. Despite the geographical distance, both groups were united in their shared Salesian mission and commitment to the education of the young.

The day began with a prayer service, which set the tone for the gathering, inviting participants to reflect on their vocation as Salesian educators and the profound impact they have on the lives of young people, especially those who are on the margins and most vulnerable. The prayer service was a moment of collective renewal, reminding all present of the legacy of St. John Bosco and the vibrant spirit of the Salesian Family.

The keynote addresses, delivered by two outstanding Salesian alumni, helped frame the day’s focus on the Strenna of 2025 and its implications for educators. In the North, Mike Alvarez, a Salesian Cooperator and alumnus of St. Francis High School, offered a heartfelt reflection on the significance of the Strenna and the ways in which educators can actively embody the Salesian spirit of accompaniment in their daily work. He emphasized the importance of forming relationships with young people, understanding their challenges, and being present to guide them through life’s difficulties.

In the South, Anthony Rodriguez, an alumnus of Don Bosco Technical Institute, spoke about the power of personal witness and the role of educators in being models of faith and hope for their students. His powerful testimony highlighted the transformative effect that Salesian educators can have when they are committed to walking alongside young people in their journey of faith.

Following the keynotes, participants engaged in a simple yet meaningful community-building game, designed to foster connection and collaboration among the diverse group of educators. This activity helped participants break the ice and set a collaborative tone for the rest of the day.

The heart of the gathering came during the breakout discussion sessions, where participants shared insights and best practices for applying the Strenna’s call to accompany the young. These discussions provided an opportunity for educators to reflect on how they are already living the Salesian mission in their respective schools and to brainstorm new ways to deepen their commitment to this essential aspect of their vocation. The exchange of ideas and experiences enriched the day, strengthening the bond among Salesian educators throughout the region.

The day concluded with a celebratory Mass, a fitting end to a day of reflection and renewal. The Mass, celebrated by our provincial Fr. Mel Trinidad and our Province Delegate for Youth Ministry, Fr. Fabian Cardenas, was a moment of thanksgiving for the work of Salesian educators and a prayer for the continued guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit as they accompany the young. Fr. Fabian’s words during the homily, emphasizing that joy is not just a feeling but a foundation of our mission, reminded all present that as Salesian educators, we are called to reflect the joy of Christ’s light in all that we do.

Fr. Mel’s message during the Mass also resonated with the theme of working together, acknowledging the diversity of our realities and the need for collaboration. He reminded the group that it is God who continues to calls us in this time and place and for us to respond generously to be a sign of hope and joy in a world that desperately needs it. It is only together, through our shared mission that we can meet the challenges of this moment with faith, courage, and love.

As we move forward into the new year, the regional gathering reminded all Salesian educators of the vital role they play in the lives of young people. Through their dedication, faith, and service, they continue to live out the Salesian charism, shaping the future of the Church and society, one student at a time.