By Luis Chacon, Salesian Family Youth Center- Los Angeles

(Boyle Heights, California) – Across the Salesian mission in the United States, lay leaders continue to play an essential role in accompanying young people, strengthening communities, and sustaining the charism of Don Bosco in everyday life. Recently, we witnessed a powerful example of this commitment during a conference led by Juan Carlos Montenegro, Executive Director of the Salesian Family Youth Center in Los Angeles, who invited catechists and lay ministers to rediscover the origin of their vocation: a living relationship with God.

In a gathering of more than 700 catechists, the conference focused on the importance of returning to the source that gives meaning and direction to all ministry. The central message was simple yet profound — before programs, structures, and activities, our mission begins with an encounter with God. Through moments of silence, prayer, and meditation, catechists are able to renew their identity as witnesses of faith and authentic educators of the young.

Juan Carlos shared how the practice of meditation has shaped his leadership, not only in his role as Executive Director of the Salesian Family Youth Center but also in his service to youth ministry and in his personal life. Participants were guided through a practical meditation exercise, experiencing firsthand how intentional reflection creates space to listen, discern, and reconnect with the presence of God. This encounter with the Lord becomes the foundation from which all pastoral action flows.

For lay leaders in the Salesian mission, this message resonates deeply. Today’s pastoral challenges — accompanying young people in complex social realities, fostering community, and responding to the spiritual needs of families — require more than organizational skills or pastoral strategies. They require interior depth, spiritual clarity, and a heart rooted in God. Returning to the source allows lay leaders to serve with authenticity, hope, and renewed zeal.

In Los Angeles, we see this Salesian spirit lived daily through lay collaborators who dedicate their time and talents to youth ministry, education, evangelization, and social outreach. From organizing leadership programs and community initiatives to accompanying young people in their personal and spiritual development, lay leaders continue to embody Don Bosco’s preventive system through presence, reason, religion, and loving-kindness.

This gathering also reflects a broader movement within the Salesian Family: a growing recognition of the vocation of the laity as co-responsible partners in the mission. Lay leaders are not simply collaborators in activities but protagonists in evangelization, called to bring the Salesian charism into families, workplaces, schools, and society.

As we continue walking together as the Salesian Family, experiences like this remind us that the vitality of our mission depends on our capacity to remain rooted in Christ. When we return to the source — to prayer, to reflection, and to authentic encounter with God — we find the strength and vision needed to accompany young people toward holiness and fullness of life.

The future of the Salesian mission in the United States is being shaped not only in our institutions but also in the hearts of lay leaders who, inspired by Don Bosco, continue to serve with faith, dedication, and a deep commitment to the young. Their witness reminds us that our mission always begins where Don Bosco began — with a heart fully centered on God and fully given to the service of others.