Weekly Forecast of the General Chapter (March 31 – April 5)

(ANS – Turin) – The seventh week of the General Chapter begins in a spirit of discernment and intensity, marked by several key events. The work focuses on the presentation and voting of deliberations 18-27, the development of core 1 and 2, and an important emphasis on some current issues. The week also includes moments of spirituality, cultural activities, and fraternal sharing. Monday: Synoptic Work on … Continuar leyendo Weekly Forecast of the General Chapter (March 31 – April 5)

Salesians’ Appeal After the Devastating Earthquake in Myanmar: “We Will Need a Lot of Help to Recover”

(ANS – Mandalay) – A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on the morning of March 28, leaving the nation in shock. The tremors were also felt in neighboring Thailand and several other Southeast Asian countries. Thousands of casualties and injuries have already been confirmed, and local authorities have launched an appeal to the international community for emergency assistance. The Salesians have been working in Myanmar for … Continuar leyendo Salesians’ Appeal After the Devastating Earthquake in Myanmar: “We Will Need a Lot of Help to Recover”

USA West Province (SUO) Congratulates Our New Rector Major: Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB

The Salesians of Don Bosco and the entire Salesian Family of the Province of St. Andrew in the Western United States celebrate the election of Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB as the 11th Successor of Don Bosco. We are grateful and hold Fr. Fabio in high esteem for the varied ways he has led the Salesian Congregation in the past, especially in its mission with and … Continuar leyendo USA West Province (SUO) Congratulates Our New Rector Major: Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB

Fr. Attard’s Profession of Faith as the 11th Successor of Don Bosco

(ANS – Turin) – This was a special moment, a formal but necessary ritual, a time of great joy and unity, but also a chance to give meaning and depth to the beginning of a new journey that the Congregation has started with this 29th General Chapter. It all happened on Tuesday, March 25th, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, at the Grand Auditorium … Continuar leyendo Fr. Attard’s Profession of Faith as the 11th Successor of Don Bosco

Fr. Stefano Martoglio Confirmed as Vicar of the Rector Major

(ANS – Turin) – The 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales elected Fr. Stefano Martoglio as the Vicar of the Rector Major, confirming him in the role already entrusted to him by the previous Chapter. The election took place at 10:45 a.m., and a long and warm round of applause in the Teatro Grande of Valdocco welcomed the outcome of the vote. According to … Continuar leyendo Fr. Stefano Martoglio Confirmed as Vicar of the Rector Major

GC29: Introducing Newly Elected General Councilors

On Friday, March 28, 2025, the 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected the following members to the General Council: Browse below for a brief biography of the newly elected and a concise description of their new roles. Fr. Silvio Roggia Elected General Councilor for Formation (ANS – Turin) – On the morning of Friday, March 28, 2025, during the first round of voting, … Continuar leyendo GC29: Introducing Newly Elected General Councilors

A Symbolic Gesture of Proximity: Fr. Fabio Attard Celebrates His Second Mass as Rector Major with Elderly and Sick Salesians

(ANS – Turin) – On the morning of March 27, 2025, Fr. Fabio Attard, the 11th successor of Don Bosco, chose a deeply symbolic and heartfelt way to celebrate his second Mass as Rector Major. He visited the infirmary of the Mother House at Valdocco, where the elderly and sick Salesians of the ICP Province reside, to celebrate the Eucharist with them. This thoughtful gesture … Continuar leyendo A Symbolic Gesture of Proximity: Fr. Fabio Attard Celebrates His Second Mass as Rector Major with Elderly and Sick Salesians

Earthquake hits Don Bosco Mandalay: A Call for Solidarity and Pray

(ANS – Anisakan) – A devastating earthquake, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, struck Myanmar, with its epicenter located in the Sagaing Division, which borders the Mandalay Division where Anisakan is situated. The tremor caused significant destruction and left communities reeling in shock. The earthquake brought widespread devastation, especially in Mandalay City, where numerous high-rise buildings, pagodas, mosques, and churches were reduced to rubble. The iconic Sagaing … Continuar leyendo Earthquake hits Don Bosco Mandalay: A Call for Solidarity and Pray

Steps Toward God / Pasos Hacia Dios

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB – God has given us three fine gifts that, if we use them, can lead us gently toward Him. The first is Memory. It is a sort of warmup gift we need to get us off any laziness about ourselves and get us climbing toward God. Any one of us can use this method. It demands only that we take … Continuar leyendo Steps Toward God / Pasos Hacia Dios

Digi Evangeli: March 23, 2025 – English and Spanish

By Fr. Shijumon Thottupurathu, SDB – Reflection In English – All families undergo different life experiences. Through the gospel of the prodigal son, we are called to examine the lifestyle of each family. Through our kindness and generosity, let’s make our family lifestyle that of MERCIFUL AND COMPASSIONATE.Blessings. Reflection In Spanish Cada familia vive experiencias diferentes. A través del Evangelio del hijo pródigo, estamos llamados … Continuar leyendo Digi Evangeli: March 23, 2025 – English and Spanish

Fr. Fabio Attard: 11th Successor of Don Bosco at the Head of the Salesian Congregation

(ANS – Turin) – The election of Fr. Fabio Attard as the 11th successor of Don Bosco marks a historic moment for the Salesian Congregation and the Salesian Family worldwide. Elected during the 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales, Fr. Fabio Attard fully embodies Don Bosco’s charism and is preparing to lead the Salesian mission dedicated to young people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable, in … Continuar leyendo Fr. Fabio Attard: 11th Successor of Don Bosco at the Head of the Salesian Congregation

Congratulations From Around the World for the New Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard

(ANS – Turin) – Congratulatory messages and best wishes are pouring in from around the world for Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB, who was elected by the 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation as the Rector Major for the six-year term 2025–2031, and as such, the 11th Successor of Don Bosco. Trust, appreciation, esteem, gratitude, and prayers for his mission are the sentiments shared by the … Continuar leyendo Congratulations From Around the World for the New Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard

USA Youth Leader: “Why I Am Excited About the New Rector Major”

By Lisandro Albor, Jr., Salesian Youth Leader, USA Western Province – (Los Angeles, California) – Da mihi animas, caetera tolle. – Give me souls, take away the rest. That phrase, Don Bosco’s motto and the heartbeat of the Salesian coat of arms, isn’t just a line we memorize—it’s a mission we live. And every once in a while, something happens that reminds us that this … Continuar leyendo USA Youth Leader: “Why I Am Excited About the New Rector Major”

Welcome Home, Holy Father!

(ANS – Rome) – Pope Francis spent 38 days as a patient at Gemelli Polyclinic, from February 14 to March 23, 2025. These were challenging weeks for an 88-year-old battling bilateral pneumonia. Medical reports did not hide the gravity of his condition, the crises he faced, or the complexity of his clinical picture. Yet, throughout these difficult days, a flood of prayers accompanied his recovery—personal prayers, … Continuar leyendo Welcome Home, Holy Father!

A Week of Discernment and Elections: Toward the 11th Successor of Don Bosco and the General Councilors

(ANS – Turin) – The week ahead represents a crucial moment for the 29th General Chapter (GC29), during which the capitulars will elect the 11th Successor of Don Bosco, along with the Vicar General and the General Councilors. It is a decisive week for the future of the Salesian Congregation, to be lived in an atmosphere of intense prayer, reflection, and discernment. Accompanying the capitulars on … Continuar leyendo A Week of Discernment and Elections: Toward the 11th Successor of Don Bosco and the General Councilors

March 25th – Happy Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this … Continuar leyendo March 25th – Happy Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

SYLC Spirit Team Gathering: A Weekend Rooted in the Salesian Spirit

By Marisol Becerra, Province Youth Ministry Assistant (Bellflower, California) – From March 14-16, the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC) Spirit Team gathered at Camp St. Francis in Aptos, CA, for a weekend of formation, preparation, and faith, all in the joyful spirit of Don Bosco. Friday set the tone with a warm Salesian welcome, community-building activities, and dedicated time for committee work, ensuring every aspect … Continuar leyendo SYLC Spirit Team Gathering: A Weekend Rooted in the Salesian Spirit

A World Wide Salesian Catholic Online High School Option: SJB Global at St. John Bosco High School

By Diane Gihring, Director of SJB Global (Bellflower, California) – William, in Washington state, lives in an area where there are no Catholic schools. His family found out about the Full Time Online option at St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower, CA, and wanted to become a part of the Bosco community so that they could continue his Catholic education. “My experience at Saint … Continuar leyendo A World Wide Salesian Catholic Online High School Option: SJB Global at St. John Bosco High School

Don Bosco Mission Center Outreach to the Homeless: An Appeal for Donations

(Los Angeles, California) – Together, we can spread kindness and make a difference In the lives of the needy on Skid Row and other needy areas of Boyle Heights. Your lightly used clothes, housewares, luggage, and backpacks can go a long way in helping someone in need. From coats and sweaters to shoes and accessories, every item you donate can provide comfort to those who … Continuar leyendo Don Bosco Mission Center Outreach to the Homeless: An Appeal for Donations

ANS News Video: January – February 2025

(ANS – Rome) – Welcome to the Jan-Feb edition of ANS News Video. A great deal of good is done in different parts of the world, serving needy youth and keeping the charism of Don Bosco alive. We invite you to take a glance at some of the interesting events. Editor’s Note: At 15:30 in the Interamerica portion of the video, there are several images … Continuar leyendo ANS News Video: January – February 2025

GC29: Progress on Fraternal and Community Life Under the Protection of Saint Joseph

(ANS – Turin) – The Solemnity of Saint Joseph was celebrated with particular intensity during the 29th General Chapter (GC29). The participants turned to the patron of the Congregation, seeking his guidance and intercession for the successful outcome of the ongoing assembly in Valdocco. At the beginning of the session, Fr. Stefano Martoglio reported on the decisions of the Central Commission, aimed at organizing the various … Continuar leyendo GC29: Progress on Fraternal and Community Life Under the Protection of Saint Joseph

GC29: Listening and Reflection to Identify Priorities in Salesian Animation and Life

(ANS – Turin) – When numerous important reflections arise alongside the need to establish clear priorities, it can be helpful to pause and consider things from a different perspective. This was precisely the approach taken on Thursday, March 20, at the 29th General Chapter (GC29), where the Chapter members focused on refining the document that will summarize the key themes of Core Topic 1: Animation and Care … Continuar leyendo GC29: Listening and Reflection to Identify Priorities in Salesian Animation and Life

God My Inheritance / Dios Mi Herencia

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB – This third Sunday C of Lent places us before the Burning Bush as God proclaims Himself to be the Being of all Being. It is a fundamental statement that God is at the center of all that exists, that he was, is, and always will be the source of everything that is. He is the creator and the One … Continuar leyendo God My Inheritance / Dios Mi Herencia

Digi Evangeli: March 23, 2025 – English and Spanish

By Fr. Shijumon Thottupurathu, SDB – Reflection In English – God loves us and shows us signs to recognize God’s presence around us. When we are pure and holy, we are able to observe God’s presence around us. Let us imitate Moses who understood the sign and then accepted God’s mission for him. Let’s observe the omnipresent God through our self-denial, to fulfill his mission … Continuar leyendo Digi Evangeli: March 23, 2025 – English and Spanish

Christian Service Recognition for Salesian Students

By Br. Al Vu, SDB (Rosemead, California) – On March 18, 2025, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles celebrated the powerful role of young people in shaping a better world at the annual Archdiocesan Catholic High School Christian Service Awards Mass and Ceremony. This event highlighted over seventy young individuals who are not only responding to the Gospel but are also actively building a civilization of … Continuar leyendo Christian Service Recognition for Salesian Students

Answering the Call: Young People Committed to Building Community and Serving Others

By JC Montengro, PhD – (Bellflower, California) – On March 14, 2025, something extraordinary happened. Over 300 young people from different schools, backgrounds, and life experiences gathered together for the first Camp Savio meeting of the year. Even though Camp Savio won’t officially begin until July, these young leaders have already committed to months of preparation, training, and—most importantly—service. At first glance, you could see … Continuar leyendo Answering the Call: Young People Committed to Building Community and Serving Others

Province Photo News

(Los Angeles, California) – Salesian education is a launching pad for young people’s whole development. Today’s news highlights a Career Day at Bishop Mora Salesian High School, the Sacrament of Confirmation for St. Francis High School Salesian College Preparatory students, an outstanding achievement for MSET students at Don Bosco Technical Institute, and a Girl Scout Tea Party at the Salesian Family Youth Center. St. Francis … Continuar leyendo Province Photo News

CG29: A New Perspective for Salesian Brothers and the Congregation

(ANS – Turin) – During the 29th General Chapter (GC29), taking place in Valdocco, a historic recommendation was made to the Rector Major and the General Council to be elected: to allow, ad experimentum, the assignment of the role of the Rector of the Community also to the lay consecrated brothers. This decision marks not only an important moment for the Salesian Congregation but also … Continuar leyendo CG29: A New Perspective for Salesian Brothers and the Congregation

CG29: A Step Forward for Salesian Communities

(ANS – Turin) – March 13 at the 29th General Chapter (CG29), currently taking place at Valdocco, in Turin will be remembered as a milestone in the history of the Salesian Congregation. The Chapter expressed a favorable opinion, giving the possibility to the Rector Major and his Council to make use of the exemption granted by the Holy Father. Subsequently, a resolution was approved that … Continuar leyendo CG29: A Step Forward for Salesian Communities

GC29 Halfway: Between Spiritual Reflections and Missionary Visions

(ANS – Turin) – The weekend of March 15-16, 2025, at the 29th General Chapter (GC29) presented the participants with a dual challenge: first, to take stock of the journey now at its halfway point, giving the necessary momentum for the weeks ahead; and second, to open a broader vision beyond the Chapter itself, in light of the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian Missionary … Continuar leyendo GC29 Halfway: Between Spiritual Reflections and Missionary Visions

 “I Accompany You from Here”: The Anniversary of the Pontificate at Gemelli, with Eyes on the World

(ANS – Rome) – On March 13, Pope Francis marked the twelfth anniversary of his election as Pontiff from the Roman hospital where he has been hospitalized for nearly a month. This period of stillness comes after one of the most intense years of his papacy, filled with the Jubilee, Synod, Consistory, international and domestic travels, and visits to Roman parishes. On this day, the Pope … Continuar leyendo  “I Accompany You from Here”: The Anniversary of the Pontificate at Gemelli, with Eyes on the World

Celebrating the 128th Anniversary of the Salesian Mission in the Western United States

(Bellflower, California) – Wednesday, March 12, 2025, marked a significant milestone in our history. Exactly 128 years ago, the first group of Salesian missionaries arrived in San Francisco, igniting a mission that continues to thrive across the United States. Led by Father Raphael Piperni, they took charge of Saints Peter and Paul Church at 1100 Dupont Street, dedicating themselves to serving the Italian immigrant community. Their … Continuar leyendo Celebrating the 128th Anniversary of the Salesian Mission in the Western United States

CYM Annual Gathering at Don Bosco Hall, Berkeley

By Marisol Becerra, Province YM Assistant – (Bellflower, California) – This past weekend, from Friday to Sunday, March 7-9, Salesian Coordinators of Youth Ministry (CYMs) from across our parishes, youth centers, and schools gathered in Berkeley for a special meeting focused on formation, collaboration, and strengthening our Salesian mission. The gathering provided an opportunity to deepen understanding of St. John Bosco’s mission through key Salesian … Continuar leyendo CYM Annual Gathering at Don Bosco Hall, Berkeley

Called to More – Come and See

(Berkeley, California) – The Vocation Team for the Salesian Society of Don Bosco USA Western Province is hosting a weekend of fellowship, faith, and self-discovery for single young men open to God’s call to work with young people. The Discernment Weekend will be April 25-27, 2025, where participants can experience the joy, service, and fraternity in a Salesian way of life and meet Salesian brothers, … Continuar leyendo Called to More – Come and See

Savio Club Brings the Spirit of Camp Savio to Warren High School

(Bellflower, California) – The Savio Club at Warren High School, a public school in Downey, California, witnessed new enthusiasm this week when JC Montenegro, a leader from Camp Savio at St. Dominic Savio Church, visited to speak about the transformative summer camp experience. The invitation came from a group of students who recently founded the Savio Club, a student-led initiative to expand the reach of … Continuar leyendo Savio Club Brings the Spirit of Camp Savio to Warren High School

CG29: Listening, Expression, and Unified Vision for the Salesian Future

(ANS – Turin) – On Thursday, March 13, the participants of the 29th General Chapter (CG29) were engaged in two fundamental tasks: listening and expression. On the one hand, they devoted patient attention to the reports of the six Commissions, which drafted a detailed text on the topics of Core Theme 1; on the other hand, they reviewed the progress made so far, allowing everyone to … Continuar leyendo CG29: Listening, Expression, and Unified Vision for the Salesian Future

GC29: Discussions, Voting, and Resolutions to Bring Don Bosco’s Choices into the Present

(ANS – Turin) – The work session of the 29th General Chapter (GC29) opened on March 12 with clarifications from the General Secretariat, which had to organize and synthesize 15 proposed resolutions concerning Core Theme 3. “All of them navigate the fine line between the desire for renewal and the prudence of continuity,” noted the Secretariat. It also sought to assign appropriate voting weights, depending on … Continuar leyendo GC29: Discussions, Voting, and Resolutions to Bring Don Bosco’s Choices into the Present

God Speaks with Humans

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB – God’s dated relationship with Moses in about 1280 BC enabled him to go back in Genesis another 200 years to the times of Abram. This Second Sunday of Lent then, we return nearly 3250 years to trace the founding of the Old Testament or Contract of God with humankind, the basis of our revealed religion. Abram had obeyed God, … Continuar leyendo God Speaks with Humans

Dios Habla Con Los Seres Humanos

Por P. Ed Liptak, SDB –  La relación fechada de Dios con Moisés alrededor del año 1280 A.C. le permitió retroceder en Génesis otros 200 años hasta los tiempos de Abram. Este Segundo Domingo de Cuaresma, entonces, regresamos casi 3250 años para rastrear la fundación del Antiguo Testamento o Contrato de Dios con la humanidad, la base de nuestra religión revelada. Abram había obedecido a Dios, … Continuar leyendo Dios Habla Con Los Seres Humanos

Digi Evangeli: March 14, 2025 – English and Spanish

By Fr. Shijumon Thottupurathu, SDB – Reflection In English – The disciples could experience the heavenly glory in the Transfiguration of Jesus, because they were willing to walk with Jesus and to pray together at the mountain top. When we walk with Jesus to pray together, with an open heart, to grow in our spirituality with God, we too can experience Jesus and heavenly glory.Blessings. … Continuar leyendo Digi Evangeli: March 14, 2025 – English and Spanish

March 15, 2025: 10 Years Since the Sacrifice of Akash Bashir

ANS – Rome) – Saturday, March 15, 2025, marks the 10th anniversary of the death of Akash Bashir, a young Pakistani and former Salesian student, who on March 15, 2015, did not hesitate to sacrifice himself to prevent a terrorist attack at St. John’s Church in Youhanabad, the Christian district of Lahore, Pakistan. His Cause for Martyrdom is currently underway. Akash was born and raised in a respectable … Continuar leyendo March 15, 2025: 10 Years Since the Sacrifice of Akash Bashir

Cagliero Life Video – March 2025

Dear Friend of the Salesian Missions, We are happy to send you the Cagliero Life video of March linked to the monthly Salesian intention, to be used as a tool for animation, discussion, and sharing within the various youth groups. We will follow the three verbs of 150th anniversary of Salesian missions. You can watch the video on YouTube or just click on the button … Continuar leyendo Cagliero Life Video – March 2025

“Join the Mission”: How Salesian Missionary Volunteers Are Changing Lives Worldwide

(ANS – Rome) – Salesian Missionary Volunteering is a wonderful fruit of the Salesian charism and the opportunities of network and formation are growing. Salesian Missionary Volunteering (SMV) is not just about service—it’s about transformation. Across the globe, young people are stepping forward, answering a call that is bigger than themselves, and becoming part of something extraordinary: a movement of faith, love, and commitment to making the … Continuar leyendo “Join the Mission”: How Salesian Missionary Volunteers Are Changing Lives Worldwide

Forecast of this Week at the General Chapter – March 10-15, 2025

(ANS – Turin) – This week at the 29th General Chapter will be marked by decisive moments of discussion, voting, and discernment, which will shape the future of the Salesian Congregation. The main topics on the agenda are: the Organization of Regions, the Organization of the General Council, and the Priesthood Requirement for Leadership Levels. Here is an overview of what is scheduled to happen in the … Continuar leyendo Forecast of this Week at the General Chapter – March 10-15, 2025

CG29: A Day of Transition Between Reflection and Preparation

(ANS – Turin) – Saturday, March 8, at the 29th General Chapter (CG29), marked a pivotal moment of transition, as the Chapter moved from analytical work to drafting recommendations for the future General Council regarding the governance of the Congregation. It was a significant day, during which the Chapter members immersed themselves in a blend of reflection, study, and voting simulations, all in preparation for the … Continuar leyendo CG29: A Day of Transition Between Reflection and Preparation

Salesian Old Boys Make a Difference through the Gene Mylan Fund – A Mission and History

By Alex Tucciarone, Salesian Old Boy – (Los Angeles, California) – The Salesian Old Boys, aka SOB’s, was established in 2007 in memory of one of the group’s founding members, Brother Gene Mylan, who passed away in 2007 from brain cancer. Gene was an inspiration to us as a committed Salesian dedicated to youth. In true Salesian spirit, Gene worked to co-host the Bellflower reunion, … Continuar leyendo Salesian Old Boys Make a Difference through the Gene Mylan Fund – A Mission and History

Growing Up Between Worlds: Voices of Children Born in the USA to Immigrant Parents

By JC Montenegro, PhD (Los Angeles, California) – A new documentary produced by the Salesian Family Youth Center sheds light on the stories of young people born in the United States to immigrant parents. These youth live at the crossroads of two cultures, navigating identity struggles, cultural expectations, and language barriers that many never fully understand. The video, available on YouTube, offers a poignant look … Continuar leyendo Growing Up Between Worlds: Voices of Children Born in the USA to Immigrant Parents

Pilgrims of Hope at Skid Row

By Tamara Tran (Los Angeles, California) – On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the Works of Mercy team from Don Bosco Mission Center gathered and prepared burritos, snacks, and clothing resources to serve the homeless in the local neighborhood and on Skid Row. The following reflection offers insights into their outreach. We had three cars full of donations and more volunteers for February’s outreach to the … Continuar leyendo Pilgrims of Hope at Skid Row

International Women’s Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Educational Programs that Empower Women and 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 celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8. The day honors the economic, political and social achievements of women while focusing the world’s attention on areas requiring further action. This year’s theme is #AccelerateAction for gender equality. The theme “emphasizes the … Continuar leyendo International Women’s Day: Salesian Missions Highlights Educational Programs that Empower Women and Girls

Alex: A Story of Hope and Redemption that Comes from Afar

(ANS – Bari) – Following the example of their founder, the Salesians of Don Bosco worldwide strive to extend a helping hand to young people in difficulty, offering them a chance for redemption. This is exactly what happened with Alex, a young man from Sub-Saharan Africa who arrived in Italy on a migrant boat. Initially destined for a life on the margins of society, Alex … Continuar leyendo Alex: A Story of Hope and Redemption that Comes from Afar

Pope’s Message for Lent 2025: “Let Us Journey Together in Hope”

(ANS – Rome) – On Ash Wednesday, we share below the text of the Holy Father Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2025, centered on the theme: “Let us journey together in Hope.” Dear brothers and sisters, We begin our annual pilgrimage of Lent in faith and hope with the penitential rite of the imposition of ashes. The Church, our mother and teacher, invites us to … Continuar leyendo Pope’s Message for Lent 2025: “Let Us Journey Together in Hope”

Rosary for the Pope Led by Card. Fernández Artime, SDB: Pope Francis Speaks, “Thank You for Your Prayers, I Accompany You from Here”

(ANS – Vatican City) – After 21 days of concern, closed windows, and continuous evening prayers, the voice of Pope Francis was heard once again in St. Peter’s Square in Rome. On the evening of Thursday, March 6, 2025, just before the eleventh recitation of the Rosary, a short, 30-second voice message in Spanish, recorded by Pope Francis from Gemelli Hospital, was played over the … Continuar leyendo Rosary for the Pope Led by Card. Fernández Artime, SDB: Pope Francis Speaks, “Thank You for Your Prayers, I Accompany You from Here”

Annual Class Retreats: Brotherhood in Action

By Brad Stolz, Assistant Youth Minister, Don Bosco Technical Institute Junior Retreat (Rosemead, California) – On Monday, February 10, 2025, the sounds of yelling, laughing, and very excited teenage boys could be heard on the mini mall and football field at Don Bosco Technical Institute. The sounds definitely were not the usual classroom-type noises! The sounds came from the Junior Class on their annual retreat … Continuar leyendo Annual Class Retreats: Brotherhood in Action

A Lenten Prayer for Salesian Youth Leaders

(Bellflower, California) – As we enter the season of Lent, we are all invited to reflect on the significance of the number 40, which marks a period of renewal and transformation. In Scripture, the number 40 carries profound spiritual meaning, often representing a time of testing, preparation, and purification. Jesus spent 40 days in the desert, fasting and praying, as he prepared for his public ministry … Continuar leyendo A Lenten Prayer for Salesian Youth Leaders

GC29: Initial Reports on the State of the Congregation Presented

(ANS – Turin) – “Knowledge for decision-making”—this has been the guiding principle of the first days of the 29th General Chapter (GC29), currently underway in Turin-Valdocco. As Fr. Stefano Martoglio, the Chapter’s President, explained, in order to engage meaningfully with the decisions that must be made, each participant needs a broad and detailed understanding of the Congregation as a whole. This process began with an in-depth … Continuar leyendo GC29: Initial Reports on the State of the Congregation Presented

Chapter Members Working on the Three Core Themes of GC29

(ANS – Turin) – A full immersion in the synodal method is underway for the 225 Chapter members gathered in Turin, including Provincials and delegates from around the world, tasked with shaping the future of the Salesian Congregation for the next six years. At first glance, the structured schedule for the work of the Commissions might seem to limit the free expression of the GC29 participants. … Continuar leyendo Chapter Members Working on the Three Core Themes of GC29

GC29: A “Leap” from Salesian Life to the Governance and Animation of the Congregation

(ANS – Turin) – The participants of GC29 have chosen to begin each assembly meeting with a meditation. This was also the case on Thursday, March 6, when Fr. Eunan McDonnell was once again invited to lead the reflection. The meditation was anchored in the Word of God, specifically Romans 12:2: “Let yourselves be transformed by God with a complete renewal of your mind.” The … Continuar leyendo GC29: A “Leap” from Salesian Life to the Governance and Animation of the Congregation

Happy International Women’s Day 2025

By Bro. Al Vu, SDB (Rosemead, California) – As we celebrate International Women’s Day this weekend, we want to take a moment to honor the incredible women who serve in our Salesian schools—whether as administrators, teachers, staff, or coaches. Your dedication, wisdom, and hard work in carrying out Don Bosco’s mission inspire not just the students in our schools but all of us who have … Continuar leyendo Happy International Women’s Day 2025

God Near Us / Dios Cerca De Nosotros

By Fr. Ed Liptak, SDB God was about to lay the foundation of true faith in Him, and God chose Abraham, a descendant of Shem, Noah’s son, to lead a chosen people into a new relationship with Him. In the opening reading of the first Sunday of Lent, Moses traced God’s continuing gift to His people throughout their varied history. Their offering of the first … Continuar leyendo God Near Us / Dios Cerca De Nosotros

Digi Evangeli: March 9, 2025 – English and Spanish

By Fr. Shijumon Thottupurathu, SDB – Reflection In English – The first Sunday of Lent invites us to meditate upon our own salvation. We need to prepare ourselves to defend our faith against the temptations of the world. Jesus becomes the example through the Gospel of today. Let’s meditate together.Blessings. Reflection In Spanish El primer domingo de Cuaresma nos invita a meditar sobre nuestra propia … Continuar leyendo Digi Evangeli: March 9, 2025 – English and Spanish

CG29: Lent as a Model for Chapter Work

ANS – Turin) – At the heart of the “conversation in the Spirit” taking place at CG29 in Turin-Valdocco, the moment of personal meditation became even more profound on Ash Wednesday. While the work within the Commissions has now settled into a steady rhythm—constantly refining and reshaping group dynamics to maximize dialogue among participants—the 225 Chapter members gathered at midday in the Basilica of Mary Help … Continuar leyendo CG29: Lent as a Model for Chapter Work

We Are Don Bosco Today

THE MESSAGE OF THE VICAR – Fr. Stefano Martoglio, SDB “You will finish the work I am beginning; I am making the sketch, you will add the colors.” (Don Bosco) Dear friends and readers, members of the Salesian Family, for this month’s greeting in the Salesian Bulletin I will focus on a very important event that the Salesian Congregation is holding presently: General Chapter XXIX. This assembly, … Continuar leyendo We Are Don Bosco Today

An Overview of the Second Week of the 29th General Chapter

(ANS – Turin) – The 29th General Chapter (GC29) of the Salesians of Don Bosco, currently taking place in Turin-Valdocco, represents a crucial moment of discernment, collaboration, and commitment for Salesians worldwide. Over the past week, participants have analyzed the current state of the Congregation, reflected on challenges, and proposed concrete actions to shape the future of the Salesian mission, guided by the Holy Spirit. Reports, … Continuar leyendo An Overview of the Second Week of the 29th General Chapter

GC 29 – Listening, Discussion, and Proposals for the Salesian Journey

(ANS – Turin) – Friday, February 28, 2025, marked the second consecutive day of the 29th General Chapter (GC29), during which the Chapter members played a decisive role in determining the themes to be addressed in the assembly. As repeatedly emphasized by the president, Fr. Stefano Martoglio, the questions and considerations raised represent a valuable contribution to analyzing the current situation and defining the guidelines that … Continuar leyendo GC 29 – Listening, Discussion, and Proposals for the Salesian Journey

GC29: Walking Together with Unity and a Synodal Method

(ANS – Turin) – On Friday morning, February 28, the 29th General Chapter (GC29) took a significant step forward in its “structuring” process. After a keynote speech by Fr. Pascual Chávez, Rector Major Emeritus, who offered an “intentional” rather than chronological reflection on the first two weeks of the worldwide Salesian assembly, a structured working method was introduced to enhance the effectiveness of the six Commissions. … Continuar leyendo GC29: Walking Together with Unity and a Synodal Method

Three Years of War and More Uncertainty Than Ever

(ANS – Kyiv) – Monday, February 24, 2025, marked three years since the start of the war in Ukraine, a conflict that has left more than 6.5 million people as refugees, over 3.5 million displaced, and more than 14.6 million in need of humanitarian aid. Throughout these difficult years, the Salesians have remained committed to supporting Ukrainian children and young people. “It is very important for … Continuar leyendo Three Years of War and More Uncertainty Than Ever

In Loving Memory of Fr. Paul Chuong, SDB

Rosemead, California – The St. Joseph’s Salesian Youth Retreat Center community will gather on Saturday, March 8, 2025, to remember Fr. Paul Chuong, SDB, on the second anniversary of his passing to eternal life. All are welcome to participate in the Memorial Ceremony: 6:00 PM – In Memory of Fr. Paul 6:30 PM – Memorial Mass Reception – After Mass in the Salesian Residence Continuar leyendo In Loving Memory of Fr. Paul Chuong, SDB