Dear friends, We’re happy to share the schedule for upcoming Masses at Camp St. Francis in Aptos, California, for April and May 2026. Please feel free to share the accompanying graphic for dates and times, and we invite you to join us in prayer and community during these celebrations. Please note: we are updating our email address to office@campstfrancis.org. We look forward to welcoming you … Continuar leyendo Upcoming Masses at Camp St. Francis
By Armando Gonzalez, Salesian Cooperator (Bellflower, California) On March 21, 2025, the Salesian Cooperators of St. Dominic Savio Church went on a mission trip to Ensenada, Mexico, to visit Casa Gabriel, a home for orphans with disabilities. The Cooperators provided food and delivered brand-new shoes and clothes to each child. They also helped the staff feed them. The center, Casa Gabriel, is supported solely through … Continuar leyendo Salesian Cooperators Bring Assistance to Orphanage in Ensensada, Mexico
By Fr. Damien Ho, SDB, Province Vocation Team (San Francisco, California) Dear Salesian Family, At the heart of Easter is a call and the empty tomb opens a path. The risen Christ meets his disciples and sends them out: “Go and tell… go and make disciples… go into the world.” The resurrection sets life in motion. To encounter the Risen Lord is to realize that … Continuar leyendo Easter: A Great Season for Vocation Animation
(Rome — March 2026) — The Project of the National Centre of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Italy was established to express and promote its identity and mission. The National Centre is not merely an organizational structure, but above all an educative and pastoral community that embodies a distinctive “place” of the Salesian heart in Italy and serves as a reference point for the … Continuar leyendo Project of the National Centre of the Salesians, Italy: A Strategic Reference Point for Pastoral Care
(ANS – Rome) – On the occasion of the birthday of Vera Grita (January 28, 1923), Salesian Cooperator and Servant of God, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, Sonia Nifosi’s company presented a theatrical dance performance at the Salesian Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Rome, located at the Salesian Headquarters. Through text and choreography, the performance honored this remarkable figure of Salesian holiness. The setting … Continuar leyendo “Sacri Cuori Viventi” (Living Sacred Hearts): A Tribute to Vera Grita in the Salesian Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Rome
(Los Angeles, California) – In preparation for the Feast of St. John Bosco, let us join in a novena to God through the intercession of our beloved founder, St. John Bosco, whose feast we will celebrate on Saturday, January 31. The Strenna for 2026 reminds us that all our initiatives are to be rooted in Christ, led by discerning his call, and responding as Don … Continuar leyendo Don Bosco Novena: Let Us Pray Together January 22 to January 30
(ANS – Turin) – During the afternoon of the third day of the Salesian Family Spirituality Days, special attention was given to the Association of Salesian Cooperators, protagonists of a rich and well-structured sharing that wove together memory, present life, and a prophetic vision of the future, in preparation for the 150th anniversary of the Association’s foundation (1876–2026). The session, animated by the World Council … Continuar leyendo Salesian Cooperators: Don Bosco’s Prophetic Dream Continues Through History, Life, and the Future
(Los Angeles, California) – Each year, the Rector Major of the Salesians offers a Strenna—an invitation to reflect on a Gospel-centered theme that guides our prayer, mission, and daily life. The 2026 Strenna, inspired by the Wedding Feast at Cana, invites us to listen attentively to Mary’s words: “Do whatever he tells you.” This simple yet profound message speaks to our everyday experiences as Salesian … Continuar leyendo Reflecting on the 2026 Strenna: A Guide for Deepening Faith and Mission
By Judy Alvarez, Salesian Cooperator (Los Angeles, California) – On the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, September 15th, 9,000 pilgrims took part in a prayer vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica for the Jubilee of Consolation. As part of the Holy Year celebrations, this event remembered people experiencing a time of pain and affliction, due to illness, bereavement, violence, or abuse, together with their families … Continuar leyendo Witnesses to Faith, Hope, and Healing at the Jubilee of Consolation
(ANS – Viedma) – The diocese of Viedma, led by Salesian Bishop Esteban María Laxague, invites people to participate in the 55th pilgrimage of faith to Chimpay, in commemoration of the young indigenous Blessed Ceferino Namuncurá, who formed and sanctified himself in Don Bosco’s school. The event will have as its motto: ‘With Ceferino we walk together, pilgrims of hope’ and will take place from Friday, … Continuar leyendo 55th Pilgrimage to Chimpay: ‘With Ceferino We Walk Together, Pilgrims of Hope
(ANS – Rome) – A truly Salesian moment of genuine fraternity and thanksgiving to God was experienced on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Generalate of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) in Rome, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the religious profession of the Mother General of the FMA Institute, Mother Chiara Cazzuola. The festive anniversary was attended by the Rector … Continuar leyendo 50th Anniversary of Mother Chiara Cazzuola’s Profession: The Joy of a Flourishing Vocation
(ANS – Rome) – A crowd significantly larger than in recent years filled the large Basilica of Santa Maria Ausiliatrice al Tuscolano on Saturday, May 24, for the traditional feast day involving the parish, the entire neighborhood, and many people who come from various places to join in this great event. The Eucharistic celebrations throughout the day were attended by a remarkable number of faithful, … Continuar leyendo Feast of Mary Help of Christians at Pio XI in Rome
By Fr. John Puntino, SDB (Etobicoke, ON) – The annual meeting of the North American Salesian Network (NASN) took place from Monday, April 28, through Wednesday, April 30, at Camp DeSales in Brooklyn, MI. NASN connects institutes and associations that share in the spirituality of St. Francis de Sales. Mr. Joseph Conroy, provincial coordinator of Salesian Cooperators, Canada province, is the president. Fr. Joseph Boenzi, SDB, … Continuar leyendo The North American Salesian Network Elects New Officers
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
“On this Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, we remember the moment when the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette Soubirous on February 11, 1858. In the quiet of the grotto in Lourdes, Mary’s simple yet powerful message of prayer, penance, and faith has resonated with millions ever since. What began as an unexpected encounter between a young girl and the Virgin Mary has … Continuar leyendo Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes
By Bro. Reegan Ledet, SDB (Los Angeles, California) – As a Salesian Brother, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my vocation is serving the community, particularly through attending basketball games at Bishop Mora Salesian High School. Being there is more than just observing; it’s about connecting with the students and showing them they are valued, regardless of the game’s outcome. For the players, it’s … Continuar leyendo The Power of Presence: Salesian Assistance and the Meaning Behind Being in the Bleachers
(ANS – Johannesburg) – In Southern Africa (Southern Africa Catholic Bishops Conference: SACBC) Catholic Youth Ministry there are 3 Patron Saints – Blessed Benedict Daswa (SA – local martyr), St Thomas Aquinas (OP) and Saint John Bosco. Since the new pastoral year starts in January, a good number of dioceses or parishes chose to commence the annual Youth Ministry activities with a good novena to Don … Continuar leyendo Don Bosco Novena for Southern Africa Catholic Youth 2025
(ANS – Rome) – Renewing an ancient and prestigious tradition dating back to the time of Don Bosco, the Vicar of the Rector Major, Fr Stefano Martoglio, at the head of the Salesian Congregation from 17 August 2024 ( Art. 143 of the Constitution), is preparing to offer his thoughts on the Strenna for the new year to all the Salesians and members of the Salesian … Continuar leyendo The Commentary on the Strenna 2025: “Anchored in Hope, Pilgrims with Young People”
By Bro. Al Vu, SDB (Los Angeles, California) – As we enter the final week of Advent, we find ourselves on the cusp of celebrating the birth of Jesus, the most profound and transformative event in human history. In this season of preparation and anticipation, we are called not only to await the coming of Christ but also to reflect on how we, as Salesian … Continuar leyendo Embracing the Spirit of Advent with the Poor
By Bro. Al Vu, SDB (Los Angeles, California) – As we enter the third week of Advent, we draw closer to the celebration of Christ’s birth, and our hearts are filled with a deeper anticipation of the coming of the Savior. This week, we are invited to reflect on the role of St. Joseph, a figure often overlooked yet profoundly significant in the Advent narrative. … Continuar leyendo Embracing the Spirit of Advent with Joseph
By Luis Chacon, CYM (Boyle Heights, California) – The tradition of the Posadas has deep roots in Hispanic culture, particularly in Mexico, blending both religious and communal significance. This beautiful ritual invites us to remember the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem as they sought a place for the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world. Through songs and reenactments, we … Continuar leyendo Posadas Navideñas: Introduction and Prayer Based on the 2025 Strenna in English and Spanish
By Bro. Al Vu, SDB (Los Angeles, California) – As we enter the second week of Advent, we continue our journey of waiting, preparing, and longing for the coming of Christ. This is a time of deep reflection, a time of hope-filled expectation. In this season of Advent, we not only look forward to the birth of Jesus, but we also remember the model of … Continuar leyendo Embracing the Spirit of Advent with Mary
By Bro. Reegan Ledet SDB (Los Angeles, California) As a Salesian brother, I am dedicated to living out the mission of St. John Bosco, who always emphasized the importance of seeing the face of God in the young. This calling is not just a theoretical concept or something to admire from afar but something I experience deeply, especially during moments like a recent college trip … Continuar leyendo Walking with the Young: A Salesian Brother’s Encounter with God on a College Trip
By Bro. Al Vu, SDB As we stand at the threshold of Advent, a season that invites us into a time of waiting, anticipation, and preparation, we are called to reflect not only on the birth of Jesus but also on how we, as Salesian educators, can help nurture the hearts and minds of the young people entrusted to us during this sacred time. Advent … Continuar leyendo Embracing the Spirit of Advent
“On the feast of All Saints, we are called to renew the gift and the path to holiness that God gives to each of us. ‘As a Salesian Family – recalls Fr. Pierluigi Cameroni, Postulator General – we give thanks for so many brothers and sisters who have embodied the charism of Don Bosco in history and shine on our path like stars in the … Continuar leyendo Happy Feast of All Saints
(ANS – Damascus) – In a country devastated by years of war, young Syrians stand as symbols of resilience and hope. Despite the countless difficulties that surround them, they show a surprising skill and intelligence that distinguishes them, an ability to face daily challenges with determination and a spirit of sacrifice. Syria, with its destroyed political and social landscape, may seem a place where the future … Continuar leyendo Young Syrians: Talent, Difficulties and Hope in a War-torn Land
From: World Youth Day Don Bosco 23 – WYD Patron Known for his devotion to the Eucharist and his dedication to charity, Blessed Carlo Acutis used technology to spread the faith. Born in London in 1991, Blessed Carlo Acutis died of leukaemia at the age of 15. His short life was filled with great devotion to Mary and the Eucharist, which his computer skills enabled … Continuar leyendo Blessed Carlos Acutis: Celebrating His Feast Day, October 12
By Bro. Reegan Ledet, SDB (Los Angeles, California) – Last time I wrote to you, my Salesian Family, I shared my experience at St. Joseph’s Oratory and St. André Bessette. Today, I want to introduce you to another significant figure in my life: Blessed Fr. Francis Xavier Seelos. A Redemptorist priest from the 1800s, he traveled across the United States for missionary work after immigrating … Continuar leyendo Saints for the Journey
Bro. Reegan J. Ledet, SDB (Los Angeles, California) – I want to share a little about my experience with St. André Bessette with you, my Salesian Family. This past December, I had the opportunity to visit Canada for a vocation conference with the Eastern Province in Ottawa. This happened to coincide with our Christmas break. With that said, I have been waiting to make a … Continuar leyendo A Witness to Saints in Our Salesian Vocation
By Fr. Bruno Ferrero | August 27, 2024 | Salesian Bulletin Online A touching testimony by Raoul Follereau. He was in a leper colony on a Pacific island. A nightmare of horror. Nothing but walking corpses, despair, rage, sores and horrific mutilation. Yet in the midst of such devastation, one sick old man retained surprisingly bright and smiling eyes. He was suffering in body, like … Continuar leyendo A Smile at Dawn
By P. Wirth MORAND from the Salesian Bulletin Online In September 1594, Francis de Sales, provost of the cathedral, arrived, accompanied by his cousin, at Thonon in the Chablais, a province located south of Lake Geneva and close to Geneva, to explore the territory with the aim of possibly reconquering that province, which had been Protestant for sixty years, to Catholicism. Thus began an acute phase of … Continuar leyendo Correcting “Rebellious Children” with St. Francis de Sales
By Redator Strong Nino Baglieri was born in Modica Alta on May 1, 1951 to his mother Giuseppa and father Pietro. After just four days he was baptised in the Parish of St Anthony of Padua. He grew up like many boys, with a group of friends, some struggles during his school years and the dream of a future made up of work and … Continuar leyendo Nino, A Young Man Like So Many… Meets the Purpose of Life in His Lord
(ANS – Rome) – Don Bosco had a great devotion to the Sacred Heart, and he recommended it to his boys. This devotion was displayed in many forms and expressions during his life: writings, prayers, good advice and recommendations, and even churches. And his devotion was so compelling that it became part of the Salesian Charism itself, being spread by his Successors and Spiritual Sons to … Continuar leyendo Don Bosco and the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
(ANS – Rome) – Keeping up the promise he made on 17 December 2023, when he took possession of the diaconate of Santa Maria Ausiliatrice on Via Tuscolana assigned to him by Pope Francis, the Rector Major of the Salesians and Titular Archbishop of Ursona, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, celebrated the Feast of Mary Help of Christians 2024 in the church he is responsible for. The celebration was … Continuar leyendo Feast of Mary Help of Christians: the Rector Major Emphasizes “Mary’s Welcoming Nature”
By Leo A. Imbert, SDB On Saturday, May 18th, the Salesians of the Ratisbonne Monastery in Jerusalem, Israel, hosted a Vigil at the Basilica of St. Stephen. The Deacons and Brothers in formation utilized their talent and unique charism to usher in the Solemnity of Pentecost- the third most important Feast in the Catholic Church. Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit onto the … Continuar leyendo Salesians Organize Pentecost Celebration in Jerusalem
ENG_LibrettoNovena2024.pdf SPALibrettoNovena2024.pdf Continuar leyendo Novena to Mary Help of Christians, Day Two, May 16
By Judy Alvarez Every May 24th, the Salesian Family celebrates with joy and thanksgiving the Feast of Mary Help of Christians. As a family, many also prepare for the celebration through the Worldwide Novena to Mary Help of Christians, May 15-23. The Salesian headquarters in Rome have prepared resources to unite the Salesian Family in prayer and deepen our devotion to Mary Help of Christians. … Continuar leyendo The “Secret of Mary” in Our Journey to Holiness
By Judy Alvarez “Miracles of the Eucharist are divine interventions aimed at confirming the real presence of the Body and Blood of Christ in the Eucharist.” +Carlo Acutis This weekend the community of St. Dominic Savio Church in Bellflower, California will host the International Exhibition of Eucharistic Miracles created and designed by the Blessed Carlo Acutis. All are welcome to explore this exhibit currently on … Continuar leyendo International Eucharistic Miracles Exhibition by Blessed Carlo Acutis
By Luis Chacon During the sacred days of Holy Week, the St. Isabel Catholic Elementary School embarked on a profound journey of reflection, prayer, and celebration. This journey was made possible under the guidance of our dedicated educators and the invaluable support of the Salesian community. Facilitated by Salesian Cooperator Jesús Ortega, the Coordinator of the Religion Department, and Salesians of Don Bosco from the … Continuar leyendo A Vibrant Holy Week Journey: St. Isabel Catholic Elementary School Celebrations
Written by Redaktor Strony | February 23, 2024 Louis and Callistus: the same missionary vocation for the salvation of souls, but a different story. February 25th this year marks the 94th anniversary of the martyrdom of Bishop Aloysius (Louis) Versiglia and Fr Callistus Caravario, missionaries to China. Louis Versiglia and Callistus Caravario: two figures different in many respects but united by a great apostolic zeal … Continuar leyendo Salesian Protomartyrs: Aloysius (Louis) Versiglia and Callistus Caravario
(ANS– Rome) – After recalling some of Don Bosco’s famous dreams with a clearly educational and pedagogical value, today begins the mini-cycle of three events dedicated to rediscovering the “missionary” dreams of the holy founder of the Salesian Congregation. Given the development of the Society he founded, the countless works started and carried out with the collaboration of many other men and women religious and lay … Continuar leyendo Don Bosco the Dreamer: the First Missionary Dream
Turin, Italy – January 2024 – The Salesian Family Spirituality Days 2024 ended yesterday, Sunday, 21 January. These were intense days, during which about 400 members of this great religious family, together with the 4,000 connected online, met in Valdocco with the Rector Major, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime. Together, they prayed, shared spirituality, listened to testimonies, and reflected on Strenna 2024: “The dream that makes … Continuar leyendo Salesian Family Spirituality Days 2024
January 24, 2024 (ANS – Rome) – The Oratory of St Francis de Sales was the small seed for the great Salesian work. With the small group of children and young people who were the oratory, Don Bosco founded the new religious congregation, which he placed under the protection and patronage of Saint Francis de Sales so as to give its members the name “Salesians.” Saint … Continuar leyendo Saint Francis de Sales, Who Inspires the Salesian Charism and Is a Model of Humanism for Don Bosco
