(ANS – Rome) – On the 100th anniversary of the death of Fr. John Cagliero (February 28, 1926), Salesian cardinal and leader of the first Salesian missionary expedition, the Missions Sector launches the Salesian Missionary Day (SMD).

This year, the Salesian Missionary Day, promoted by the Missions Sector, focuses on missionary solidarity, particularly the role of Salesian Mission Offices, under the slogan “Hearts Open, Mission Alive!”

The missionary spirit must always be sustained and renewed in many ways, including powerful moments of missionary animation such as SMD—an opportunity offered to SDB communities, Educative and Pastoral Communities (EPCs), all young people, and members of the Salesian Family to live out this dimension of the Salesian charism fully and to spread missionary awareness.

The name, however, can be misleading: it is not a single, fixed day. There is no specific date, since each Province may choose the time that best fits its own rhythm and calendar to experience this meaningful moment of missionary animation. Moreover, SMD represents the culmination of ongoing educational and pastoral processes; it is not an isolated activity.

The spirit and purpose of Salesian Missionary Day serve as a reminder of the profound impact of a shared commitment to missionary solidarity. SMD 2026 is dedicated to highlighting the essential role of Salesian Mission Offices around the world in building connections, sharing resources, and empowering communities to accompany young people toward a life of dignity.

All materials will soon be available at https://www.sdb.org/it/Dicasteri/Missioni/Giornate_Missioni_Salesiane

In the meantime, you can watch the video teaser on the YouTube channel “Settore per le Missioni Salesiane.”

The posters can be downloaded below.