(ANS – Dublin) – In line with the main objectives of the Youth Ministry Sector of the Salesian Congregation, Fr. Francisco Cervantes, member of the Youth Ministry Sector at the Salesian Generalate, recently visited the Irish Province on behalf of Fr. Rafael Bejarano, General Councillor for Youth Ministry. During his visit, Fr. Cervantes met with Fr. Cyril Odia, Provincial Delegate for Youth Ministry, opening a fraternal conversation on the processes, challenges and prospects of provincial youth ministry.

A charism adapted to local contexts

Each Salesian province carries out its pastoral mission in a unique way, adapting it to the social, cultural and religious realities of the territory. The Irish Province is no exception: here, Salesian youth ministry is distinguished by its international and intercultural dimension, embodying Don Bosco’s charism in a deeply dynamic and diverse context.

Despite the challenges of recent years, the faith and creativity of the Irish Salesian community – made up of Salesians, lay people and young people – have continued to give life to significant initiatives, demonstrating that the Salesian charism can shine even in the most complex situations.

A relaunching full of hope

Youth Ministry in Ireland is going through a relaunching phase, made possible thanks to the commitment of Fr. Eunan McDonnell, Provincial of Ireland, and the Provincial Council. After years of reflection and planning, Salesian youth ministry is reopening new paths of attention to young people, both in Salesian environments and at the ecclesial level.

This renewal has attracted the attention of other religious congregations and diocesan parishes inspired by the Salesian approach, and seeking to develop similar initiatives.

A concrete example of this new phase are the summer camps reactivated this year in three Salesian communities. These initiatives, organized with the active involvement of lay people, parents, young leaders and Salesians, are a tangible sign of hope and boldness.

Young Salesians in formation are actively participating in these activities, living their formation directly in the mission. At the same time, youth volunteering, fruit of Salesian Youth Spirituality, and the active role played by young people are contributing to the birth and growth of the Salesian Youth Movement within the province.

An explicit and shared vocation

The relaunching of youth ministry is animated by an explicit vocational focus, fully integrated into the Salesian Province’s Educative and Pastoral Plan. This vocational dimension motivates and inspires not only young people but also the adults involved, strengthening the link between spirituality, mission and service.

Resilience and creativity in the Mission

In recent years, youth ministry in Ireland has faced great difficulties. However, nothing has affected the faith, passion and creativity of the Salesians, lay people and young people involved in the mission. With determination and hope, they continue to be a living sign of God’s love for young people.

Fr Cervantes, who spent a month in Ireland to accompany this process, said: “The Irish Province experience shows that even in the most complex contexts Don Bosco’s charism can shine, nourished by shared commitment and an authentic passion for young people. I hope and pray that all efforts will lead to a strong renewal of youth ministry activities in Ireland.”