Por Judy Álvarez, SC
(Berkeley, California) – The Salesian Center for Ongoing Formation in Quito hosted a series of important meetings from September 12 to 15, 2025 for those who serve in Ongoing Formation. The highlight of these gatherings was the encounter with Don Fabio Attard, SDB, the Rector Major, who was making his Animation Visit to the Salesian Sacred Heart of Jesus Province in Ecuador. This unique time was filled with meaningful dialogue and reflection.
At the 50th anniversary celebration of the Salesian Center for Ongoing Formation in Quito, Don Fabio offered this significant reflection:
“The charismatic gift that the Lord has offered has found people, Salesians and lay people, who have believed in the charism and its ongoing generating power. Over these years we have known people who, with conscience, wisdom and constant commitment, have become good and faithful servants of the talent entrusted to them.”*
Fr. Alejandro Rodriguez, SDB, Director of the Salesian Center for Ongoing Formation in Berkeley, is among those Salesians who believe in the Salesian charism and its generative power. As such, Fr. Alejandro was in attendance for the Ongoing Formation meetings and the 50th anniversary celebration. During that time he had the opportunity to discuss the Ongoing Formation program in Berkeley with Don Fabio. According to Fr. Alejandro, “It was inspiring to hear his insights and advice on how to strengthen our efforts to benefit thousands of young people across the continent. Furthermore, we agreed on the importance of reinforcing the team in Berkeley to ensure the success of our programs. His visit motivates us to continue building a future full of hope for our provincial community in the western United States.”
Fr. Alejandro also had a meeting with the team from the Center for Ongoing Formation in Quito, and added, “There is reason to believe that the Center for Ongoing Formation in Berkeley will begin some common projects with the Center in Quito.”
May this inspiration and direction continue to grow!
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*Five Messages the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, Delivered During His Visit