The Pre-Synodal Commission Works on the Salesian Synod of Young People Working Document for 2024

(ANS – Rome) – On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Don Bosco’s Childhood Dream, the Youth Ministry Sector is promoting the Salesian Youth Synod 2024 from August 11 to 16 at Colle Don Bosco in Castelnuovo Don Bosco. Currently, the preparatory phase of listening and dialogue has been completed in each Province, and the contributions have been sent to the pre-synodal commission for drafting … Continuar leyendo The Pre-Synodal Commission Works on the Salesian Synod of Young People Working Document for 2024

Mission Trip to Mexico City for the Salesians of Sherbrooke Young Missionaries

Mexico City, Mexico – March 2024 – Twenty-four members of Sherbrooke’s “Jeunes Missionnaires du Salésien” (JMS) completed a missionary trip to Mexico City from 28 February to 8 March- They were enthusiastically welcomed in a Salesian house that welcomes, accompanies and educates teenagers at risk. Many of them are orphaned, homeless or come from broken families. Others struggle with drug or alcohol problems. These young … Continuar leyendo Mission Trip to Mexico City for the Salesians of Sherbrooke Young Missionaries

Coming of Age in a Community for Minors. The Solidarity Campaign of “Salesians for Social”

(ANS – Rome) – “Turning 18 for most young people is an eagerly awaited milestone, but for young people accepted into communities for minors, it is a time of great anxiety and concern because coming of age determines the end of many protection and support activities.” Francesco Preite, President of Salesians for Social, an association that has spent 30 years alongside children and young people in fragile … Continuar leyendo Coming of Age in a Community for Minors. The Solidarity Campaign of “Salesians for Social”

SYLC Spirit Team Retreat January

Marisol Becerra, Youth Ministry Assistant Friday, January 26th The Spirit Team gathering and training began on Friday, with arrivals around 6 PM. Fr. Fabian Cardenas, the youth ministry delegate, reviewed the objective of the weekend and the preparation for SYLC. There was also a great opportunity for community building and prayer. The Spirit Team was challenged to split into groups, write down their gifts and … Continuar leyendo SYLC Spirit Team Retreat January

“You have the power to choose who you want to be” Part II

By: Paula LuengosSalesian Summer Camp Volunteer from Spain Last week we shared the experience of Paula when she first came to the Salesian community and the Salesian Family Youth Center.  This week Paula tells us about her experience at Camp Salesian, and how she won the weekly recognition award of the best head staff member, the Headmaster Award.  Paula writes: It was on July 1st, … Continuar leyendo “You have the power to choose who you want to be” Part II

Province Youth Ministry Department November Recap!

By: Youth Ministry Department PYMT MeetingOn November 5th, 2022, the Province Youth Ministry Team gathered to discuss the Province Organic Plan Implementation and the Educative Pastoral Plan. The team then broke out into breakout rooms to discuss the impressions, opinions, concerns on the document and to discuss the most impactful projects in these four areas: Salesian Charismatic Identity, Salesian Formation for and in mission, Accountability … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department November Recap!

“You have the power to choose who you want to be”

By: Paula LuengosSalesian Summer Camp Volunteer from Spain Hello dear Salesian Family of the Western Province, as you know every year we have a group of volunteers who help at our Salesian summer camp experiences.  Part of our mission as a Salesian family is to give voice to the ideas, feelings, and dreams of our young people, as well as to inspire and motivate other … Continuar leyendo “You have the power to choose who you want to be”

Leave behind your fears and begin to experience new situations you did not know before

By: Veronica LapetraSalesian Summer Camp Volunteer from Spain Veronica volunteered at the Salesian Family Youth Center in 2019, and she returned in 2022 to volunteer at Camp Savio in Bellflower. At the end of her experience, Veronica shares with us what this volunteer experience has meant to her, and what she has learned from it for life. Hello! My name is Veronica, and I am … Continuar leyendo Leave behind your fears and begin to experience new situations you did not know before

Bosco Tech Open House is November 6 – Featuring Campus Tours & Technology Lab Exploration

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer ROSEMEAD, CA. – October 12, 2022 – Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) will host its Open House for prospective students on Sunday, November 6. Elementary and middle school students and their families are invited to learn about the school’s rigorous academics, advanced technology majors, internship opportunities, and individualized college planning program. “Open House is a great opportunity to experience all Bosco … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech Open House is November 6 – Featuring Campus Tours & Technology Lab Exploration

Lets save a starfish – Part III

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers The previous two weeks I shared the experience of these migrant children in the United States.  They express the risks that migrant children suffer here, and also  brainstorm solutions that in this Province we could consider for future ministry. It must be remembered that these children have grown up in Salesian environments and that despite not being more than … Continuar leyendo Lets save a starfish – Part III

Lets save a starfish – Part II

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers Last week we started the article “Let’s save a starfish” where I shared the experience of a migrant family arriving in this country. Here is the continuation of the experience of the children.   I also am offering ideas from their parents about how we might help these children and young people. “We traveled to Los Angeles without knowing where … Continuar leyendo Lets save a starfish – Part II

Bosco Tech to host free college fair

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer ROSEMEAD, CA—September 19, 2022–Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) Don Bosco Technical Institute will host its annual college fair for high school students and their parents on Thursday, October 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event, which is free and open to all local families, will feature representatives from over 80 colleges and universities. “After a two-year hiatus due to … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech to host free college fair

Fourteen Bosco Tech students awarded academic honors

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer Students excelled in College Board assessments and schoolwork to earn the awards, which colleges use to identify academically competitive underrepresented students. ROSEMEAD, CA – September 12, 2022 – Fourteen Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) students have earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. The National Recognition Programs grant underrepresented young people academic honors that can be included … Continuar leyendo Fourteen Bosco Tech students awarded academic honors

Province Youth Ministry Team Retreat

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant From Friday, September 9th to Sunday, September 11th, the Province Youth Ministry Team gathered in person and on Zoom for the first PYMT Retreat. The retreat began on Friday night with a welcome, social, and introductions. We ended the first day with a prayer and a goodnight from our Provincial, Fr. Mel Trinidad. On Saturday, we began the day … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Team Retreat

Salesian Family Youth Center Summer Experience

By J.C MontenegroExecutive Director Are you ready to experience the love? For the last two months, we have been MIA “Missing in Action.” Once our summer program started, we did not have time to share all the fantastic work at the Salesian Family Youth Center. Nonetheless, the work was done! We changed many lives. In this blog, we would like to pay tribute to all … Continuar leyendo Salesian Family Youth Center Summer Experience

Beating the Summer Heat at Camp SLR – Camp San Luis Rey

By Bro. Quang Nguyen, SDBCamp Assistant Many people look forward to summer every year. People look forward to vacations with their families and friends, and some simply want to rest. Students still in school look forward to three months break from studying to spend time with families, and friends, and rejuvenate before going back to school. Summer is not only for vacation and rest but … Continuar leyendo Beating the Summer Heat at Camp SLR – Camp San Luis Rey

The Return of Camp St. Francis

By Fr. Vien Nguyen, SDBCamp Coordinator THE RETURN OF CAMP ST. FRANCIS When the campers show up, the sun breaks through the sky and the sound of music accompanies the laughter of kids, Camp Saint Francis becomes alive again. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the summer program at Camp St. Francis was open once again. Usually, the summer program lasts four weeks, … Continuar leyendo The Return of Camp St. Francis

What I learned at Camp Savio

By Joselyn RiveraCamp Counselor What has Camp taught me? Camp has taught us many things whether it’s cheers, dances, or how to become more responsible. It has taught us to be more patient and to have better communication with everyone just in general. Before camp I was really nervous and was just in my own zone, I didn’t want to talk to anyone but that … Continuar leyendo What I learned at Camp Savio

Our commitment to Camp Savio

By Joselyn RiveraCamp Counselor What does “Commitment” Even Mean? Commitment is a promise to stick to your values even when times are hard. When I start thinking about commitment the first thing I get reminded of are relationships, but commitment isn’t just that. Other things that require commitment would be working out, having a job, or being part of an organization just like Savio.  Just … Continuar leyendo Our commitment to Camp Savio

Salesian Family Youth Center at the Kindness Carnival

On April 30th (Kindness Day), West San Gabriel Valley Boys & Girls Clubs and East Side Clubs, led by JR Dzubak, invited the Salesian Family Youth Center to their first annual Kindness Carnival. The event took place from 11:00AM to 5:00PM near Boyle Heights City Hall. This Kindness Carnival came about as a response to many children and young people feeling alone and lost due … Continuar leyendo Salesian Family Youth Center at the Kindness Carnival

Summer Assignments 2022

Dear All, I greet you with fraternal affection in this month of May, the month of our mother, Mary Help Of Christians,hoping that all your communities, families and pastoral activities bear excellent fruit. I am writing to all of you at this time to communicate and share with you the assignments for this summer 2022.This process was carried out, considering the evaluation made last year … Continuar leyendo Summer Assignments 2022

Updates from the Salesian Family Youth Center!

Channel 62 visited our youth center and created this video shown on local TV. They compared our Clubhouse with an oasis! The news is only two minutes long and expresses who we are and what we do for the children of our community. I hope you enjoy this small video. Taking young people to visit the Universities in Northern California. The Salesian Family Youth Center … Continuar leyendo Updates from the Salesian Family Youth Center!

Easter at Saint Mary’s Parish and the Salesian Family Youth Center

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers Saint Mary’s Parish and the Salesian Family Youth Center are a combined Youth Ministry operating under the leadership of CYM Miriam Hernandez.  For the second year during Holy Week St. Mary’s hosted Pascua Juvenil ( Youth Lenten Retreat). The theme was “I Choose to be Holy” and was led by a young adult ministry Heaven Bound and other lay … Continuar leyendo Easter at Saint Mary’s Parish and the Salesian Family Youth Center

English Youth Night: Catholic Social Teachings

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On Thursday, March 24th, the Boyle Heights Youth Ministry organized the already traditional “Youth Night” for the Confirmation Program. The month’s theme was Catholic Social Teachings and was hosted at the Salesian Family Youth Center. We began at 6:30 pm with the Core Team preparing all the material for prayers and learning about Catholic Social Teachings. I have been … Continuar leyendo English Youth Night: Catholic Social Teachings

Coordinators for Youth Ministry Retreat

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant The Coordinators for Youth Ministry retreat began with a dinner on Friday night to welcome all the CYMs as everyone arrived. Fr. Fabian began the first session where he stated the impacts that the COVID pandemic has had on us and our Salesian sites, but also the impact of the war in Ukraine and the need to pray and … Continuar leyendo Coordinators for Youth Ministry Retreat

Being “living waters of hope”

By: Andres NeriaSocial Communication and Media Coordinator This year’s RE (Religious Education) Congress certainly felt different with the limited number of attendees and exhibitors. Despite that, for those who were in attendance (physically and virtually) there was a sense of hope that it’s still possible to gather, be formed, and share in community our living faith with others.  Participants and organizers support one another while keeping … Continuar leyendo Being “living waters of hope”

Salesian Youth Leadership Conference Spirit Team Retreat!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant From Friday, February 18th to Sunday, February 20th, the selected SYLC Spirit Team youth along with the SYLC Spirit Team adults gathered at St. Josephs Salesian Youth Renewal Center in Rosemead, CA for the first SYLC Spirit Team retreat. We welcomed two teens from Laredo, Texas, Alejandra Alvarez, and Abdiana Marines, along with the CYM chaperone from Laredo, Estela … Continuar leyendo Salesian Youth Leadership Conference Spirit Team Retreat!

Monthly Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On Sunday, March 6, we have carried out our monthly Homeless Outreach, but this time it was a little different, since we have had the presence of almost 30 volunteers to give food, toiletries, some clothes and time to our brothers and sisters less fortunate ones on skid row. This experience was impressive because we have had the representation … Continuar leyendo Monthly Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

Bosco Tech to host educational expert Dr. Abigail Norfleet James

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer ROSEMEAD, CA. – February 23, 2022 – Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) will host Dr. Abigail Norfleet James, internationally acclaimed author, speaker, and expert on single-sex education, on Wednesday, March 9, at 6:30 p.m. on the school’s campus. An engaging speaker, James is recognized as an authority in gendered teaching, and developmental and educational psychology, and is the author of Teaching … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech to host educational expert Dr. Abigail Norfleet James

Welcome Saul Silva, our newest volunteer!

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers We are happy to share that Divine Providence has sent us a new volunteer. His name is Saul Edwin Silva Duran, he is 25 years old, and although he and his father were born in Brazil, Saul grew up in Bolivia, where he has known the Salesians since he was ten years old. Saul is the third of four … Continuar leyendo Welcome Saul Silva, our newest volunteer!

Camp St. Francis 2022 update

Dear Salesian Confreres, I hope that each of you is well and safe, filled with the presence and charity of God in your lives and “doing everything through love”, as this year’s Strenna invites us, especially for each of those young people we meet on a daily basis. I am writing to you with the deep desire to communicate and share an important decision that … Continuar leyendo Camp St. Francis 2022 update

Province Youth Ministry Department January Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant Spirit Team Meeting On January 6th, The administrative team of SYLC got together to reflect, plan and organize the retreats for spirit team leaders. These retreats will be taking place at St. Joseph Retreat House in Rosemead from February 18th – 20th and April 1st to the 3rd. Province Leadership Meeting  On January 10th, there was a Province leadership … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department January Recap!

Announcement of SYLC Spirit Team Youth 2022

Dear Salesian Brothers, Our beloved God has given us a new year and a new opportunity to celebrate with joy and exultation, the feast of our founding father, St. John Bosco, and the great work and legacy entrusted to us through him: the salvation of the most abandoned and endangered youth. Inspired by the actions and words of Don Bosco, faithful follower of the Lord … Continuar leyendo Announcement of SYLC Spirit Team Youth 2022

Happy Feast Day from Saint Anthony’s Youth Group!

By: Peter NguyenYoung Adult Leader On Sunday, January 30th, 2022, Saint Anthony’s Youth Group welcomed novices Michael and Thomas Nguyen along with Brothers Khoa Pham and Damien Ho to celebrate the feast day of St. John Bosco. We started a fun day of joyful festivities by playing steal the bacon by splitting up the group into two sides and as we witnessed our kids chasing … Continuar leyendo Happy Feast Day from Saint Anthony’s Youth Group!

Monthly Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On December 19th, 2021 Salesian Volunteers, representatives from Saint Joseph Salesian Retreat House and Restless Hearts Foundation had our monthly Homeless Outreach. In the Province we have our Missionary Animation Team that coordinates the various missionary volunteer activities. I am proud to introduce Tamara Tran, who is an educator and active member of the Saint Joseph Salesian Retreat House. … Continuar leyendo Monthly Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

Province Youth Ministry Department December Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant LEADS Interamerica and Cone South On December 4th the members of LEADS Interamerica and Cone South gathered together to continue their Salesian formation and teamwork to strengthen the Salesian Youth Movement and its impact in both regions and its provinces. The Salesian formation was delivered by Fr. Fabian, coordinator of the Interamerica region, and a special moment of prayer … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department December Recap!

Salesian Family Youth Center members of the LA Chamber of Commerce

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On January 12, members of the Salesian Family Youth Center were present for the first time in the Los Angeles area Chamber of Commerce! A couple of months ago Juan Carlos and I went to the streets of Boyle Heights to visit local businesses and attract benefactors, we made some contacts, but they do not compare to the number … Continuar leyendo Salesian Family Youth Center members of the LA Chamber of Commerce

Fifth Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On November 23rd, on the eve of Thanksgiving, Salesian Volunteers together with R.IDEA, an organization of women dedicated to helping the underserved and homeless communities reach their goals and regain footing back into a functioning society, went to serve our most needy brothers on Skid Row. It is impressive to see how different organizations want to come together and … Continuar leyendo Fifth Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

Second Former Volunteers Gathering (MEG) Experience

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On December 2nd I had the opportunity to participate in the discussion of former Salesian volunteers in my Province of origin: Mexico-Guadalajara (MEG). The discussion was led by Margarita, the coordinator of the Salesian missionary volunteering of the Province of MEG. This event was via Zoom, and we began with a reflection on the beginning of Salesian missionary volunteering … Continuar leyendo Second Former Volunteers Gathering (MEG) Experience

Salesian presence at the Guadalupe Procession

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers Bishop Mora Salesian High School participated in the annual Guadalupe procession held in East Los Angeles on December 5th.  The Salesian Letterman Society, the Bishop Mora runners led by coach Gabriel Medina, and the school’s Campus Ministry Team represented the school. This year’s event was the 90th anniversary of the procession.  The parade began at Cesar Chavez Avenue.  As … Continuar leyendo Salesian presence at the Guadalupe Procession

Youth Night in Boyle Heights

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers Youth Nights have become a monthly tradition in the Salesian community of Los Angeles. The overall intention is to unify forces among the youth ministries of each of the Salesian presences in Los Angeles. Each month we’ve had Youth Night, where members of the Confirmation program from Saint Mary’s, Saint Isabel, and young leaders from the Salesian Family Youth … Continuar leyendo Youth Night in Boyle Heights

Province Youth Ministry Department November Recap!

By: Youth Ministry Department November 6  – LEADS Inter-America Meeting The members of Leads Interamerica got together to continue their new journey  as leaders of the Salesian Youth Movement. It was divided in three parts: 1. Formation (Invitation of Pope Francis to celebrate World Youth Day 2021) 2. Accompaniment (Ideas in how to support the delegates of Youth Ministry to celebrate and communicate WYD 2021 … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department November Recap!

Youth Night and Collaborative Team!

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On Friday, October 22, the 3rd Collaborative Team Meeting was held at the new Salesian parish of Santa Isabel in Boyle Heights. Representatives of the Confirmation Program from St. Mary’s, St. Isabel and some representatives from the Salesian Family Youth Center participated in this meeting. Participants included:  Fr Marcos Castillo, Mrs. Elizabeth Villanueva, Juan Carlos Montenegro, Miriam Hernandez, and … Continuar leyendo Youth Night and Collaborative Team!

“Everything can be expected from a grateful heart.”

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers “Everything can be expected from a grateful heart.” On the eve of gratitude in November, various organizations such as Mission Animation, Salesian Volunteers Program, Saint Joseph Salesian Retreat House, and Restless Heart offered food, vitamins, masks, and clothing to our less fortunate brothers on Skid Row. This experience has been the third Homeless Outreach for the Salesian Volunteers Program. … Continuar leyendo “Everything can be expected from a grateful heart.”

Province Youth Ministry Department October Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant NCYC Commission Meeting – October 12th Fr. Fabian participated in the first meeting of the commission for NCYC West Long Beach 2022. This meeting was led by Sr. Sydney Moss who had an objective to start reflecting and thinking about the different possibilities of topics and themes to be reflected in and presented to the participants of the conference. … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department October Recap!

Thank you, Salesians 

By: JC Montenegro, PhD, Delegate for Mission Animation Twenty years ago, around this time, I arrived in Los Angeles and since then I have been involved with a wonderful Salesian family here. I’ve had delightful moments as well as challenging moments. In my heart, there is nothing but gratitude going out to each of the Salesians who have been part of my uniquely fantastic journey.  … Continuar leyendo Thank you, Salesians 

Bosco Tech Open House is November 14th

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer ROSEMEAD, CA. – November 1, 2021 – Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) will host its in-person Open House for prospective students and their families on Sunday, November 14. Elementary and middle school students and their families are invited to learn about the school’s rigorous academics, advanced technology majors, internship opportunities, and individualized college planning program. “Open House is a great opportunity … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech Open House is November 14th

World Mission Day in the LA Archdiocese!

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On Sunday, October 24, two members of the Missionary Animation Team of the Province were present in two Archdiocesan of Los Angeles Parishes to speak about the missionary work of the Church in the world and invite parishioners to be part of the Mission of the Church through prayer and economic cooperation. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has contacted … Continuar leyendo World Mission Day in the LA Archdiocese!

First Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On September 26, three organizations: Salesian Volunteers, St. Joseph Salesian Retreat House and Restless Hearts went to our monthly homeless outreach activity in Skid Row. Tamara and Juan Guzmán helped us organize the Homeless Outreach by gathering clothes and preparing hot food for our brothers and sisters in need. First we had our Eucharistic celebration at 9:30 am, then … Continuar leyendo First Homeless Outreach at Skid Row

Bosco Tech Black and Gold Gala is November 6th

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer Gala Honorees are Longtime Tech Instructors Dr. Jorge Calienes and Mrs. Elizabeth Allison ROSEMEAD, CA—October 20, 2021—Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) will host its annual Black and Gold Gala, “Back to Broadway,” on the school’s campus on Saturday, November 6. All proceeds will benefit Bosco Tech’s tuition assistance program. The event will honor longtime Tech instructors Dr. Jorge Calienes and Mrs. Elizabeth Allison for … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech Black and Gold Gala is November 6th

A Missionary serving the poorest in Boyle Heights

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers Fr Marcos Castillo is a Salesian of Don Bosco born in the city of Santa Ana, El Salvador. He is a former student of the Colegio Salesiano San José. He professed as a Salesian of Don Bosco in 2009 and was ordained a priest in 2019. At this time, Fr Marcos is 33 years old, and his favorite hobbies … Continuar leyendo A Missionary serving the poorest in Boyle Heights

Bosco Tech names Thomas Hogan Director of Admissions

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) has named Thomas Hogan as Director of Admissions. In this position, he will oversee the school’s recruiting and orientation programs for new students, enrollment services, and the admission process. Hogan is an administrator and instructor with more than 30 years of experience in high school education, admissions, and retention. Most recently, he served as Upper … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech names Thomas Hogan Director of Admissions

Salesian Mission in Los Angeles: CYM’s Meeting

By: JC MontenegroDelegate for Mission Animation Last Monday, September 13th, CYM’s and program coordinators who work for the good of children and young people from all Salesian presences in Los Angeles have met with the objectives of: Getting to know the CYM’s of each Salesian work in Los Angeles and to the people who coordinate the Programs managed by young people. To present the programs … Continuar leyendo Salesian Mission in Los Angeles: CYM’s Meeting

Don Bosco Festive Oratory is alive in Los Angeles

By: JC Montenegro, PhD, Miriam Hernandez & Luis ChaconEast Los Angeles Community Because we know education is a matter of the heart St Dominic Savio Church and the Salesian Family Youth Center, located in Los Angeles County, opened their doors to welcome children and young people. The “oratorians” are from 5 to 13 years old, and the animators are from 14 to 18 years old … Continuar leyendo Don Bosco Festive Oratory is alive in Los Angeles

Province Youth Ministry Department September Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant SYM “LEADS” International (Inter-america Region) On September 8th The Youth Ministry Department of the congregation represented by Fr. Rafael Bejarano, SDB, met with Fr. Inatio Vieria, SDB (South Cone Region REB)  and Fr. Fabian Cardenas, SDB (Inter-america Region SUO) to pass on the coordination of the group “LEADS” an international effort of the congregation to give voice and active … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department September Recap!

Promoting Social Justice among our young people

By: Luis ChaconProvince Coordinator for Volunteers On Sunday, September 29, we had the opportunity to do a volunteer experience feeding the homeless at Venice Beach. The event organizers were Restless Heart Foundation, who prepared the food packages, Tamara (St. Joseph Salesian representative), representatives from the Salesian Volunteers Program, Martín (volunteer from Ecuador), and Br. Freddy (SDB from Venezuela). We began with a Mass celebration at … Continuar leyendo Promoting Social Justice among our young people

Bosco Tech student Commended by National Merit Scholarship Program

By: Karen KrynenCommunications Officer Don Bosco Technical Institute (Bosco Tech) senior Aman Kumar has been named a semifinalist in the 67th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Kumar is one of approximately 16,000 students from across the country who earned the designation and now have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $30 million that will be offered … Continuar leyendo Bosco Tech student Commended by National Merit Scholarship Program

Province Youth Ministry Department August Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant SYLC Evaluation On August 12th the SYLC Team met to evaluate SYLC 2021. The evaluation was based off of a survey that was taken by each member who contributed to the overall organization and completion of the conference. This meeting proved to be very helpful and it helped summarize the strengths and weaknesses of each element of SYLC. This … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Department August Recap!

Presentation of the theme for Streanna 2022: “Do all through love, nothing through constraint” (St. Francis de Sales)

By: Don Angel Fernandez Artime, SDBRector Major (ANS – Rome – July 23, 2021) – Dear Brothers, Sisters, and Friends, Just six months ago we gave the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians – as has been our tradition since Don Bosco’s time – and the whole Salesian Family, the strenna for the new year. Six months later, therefore, I have been asked to anticipate what … Continuar leyendo Presentation of the theme for Streanna 2022: “Do all through love, nothing through constraint” (St. Francis de Sales)

How A Summer Camp Changed My Life?

By: Diana SerranoUniversity of California, San Diego, ’17, BA Mount Saint Mary’s University, ’20, BSN As I browse social media, I see various posts about planned summer activities happening in the community. I can’t help but feel nostalgic for the summers I would spend at Camp Savio, the place that influenced my career choice and made me who I am today. I started attending Camp Savio … Continuar leyendo How A Summer Camp Changed My Life?

Boyle Heights will miss you Fr. Rafa!

By: Miriam HernandezCoordinator for Youth Ministry – Salesian Family Youth Center Every farewell always generates a pinch of sadness and a halo of hope, even more so if the one who is leaving is a cheerful priest who people enjoyed being around and sought a spiritual guide during challenging times for so many of us. This is the case of Father Rafael Saiz SDB, who … Continuar leyendo Boyle Heights will miss you Fr. Rafa!

A glimpse of SYLC 2021!

By: Salesian Youth Ministry Department SYLC 2021 “Moved By Hope”!  This years SYLC was one like we never experienced in the past 30 years.   After a yearlong of planning, training, and prepping for SYLC we finally where able to come together virtually and in person.  Facilitators where trained and sent out to the various community sites to gather the young people to begin a weeklong … Continuar leyendo A glimpse of SYLC 2021!

Province Youth Ministry Office April Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant Parish Commission Meeting On April 9th, there was a Parish Commission meeting to go over current projects and proposals that are happening in each respective parish. CYM Meeting On April 13th, there was a Coordinators of Youth Ministry Meeting. The topic of discussion was to go over SYLC registration, cost, schedule, and spirit team. Meeting with the Provincial Councils … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Office April Recap!

Fundraising for the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference 2021

By: Miriam HernandezCoordinator for Youth Ministry – Salesian Family Youth Center Wow! I can’t believe how fast April is going by. We now have less than two months before SYLC and with all the end of the year activities and events we must prepare for it’s going to go by even faster. One of the priorities I had set for the Youth Ministry this year … Continuar leyendo Fundraising for the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference 2021

City of Downey seeks support from Salesians

By: J.C MontenegroDelegate for Mission Animation Once the Governor of California gave schools in Los Angeles County the green light to return to in-person instruction, the city of Downey found itself without any after-school program for their 12 elementary schools. There were only seven business days before the schools opened again, and they needed to hire 26 people to staff the district’s after-school programs. Veronica … Continuar leyendo City of Downey seeks support from Salesians

Youth Ministry Office March Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant CYM Meeting On March 16th, there was a Coordinators of Youth Ministry Meeting. The topic of discussion was to go over SYLC registration, cost, schedule, and spirit team. Province Animation Team Meeting On March 19th, The Province Animation Team (PAT) gathered together. The Provincial, delegates, and the coordinators of the different departments and sectors with the Youth Ministry office, … Continuar leyendo Youth Ministry Office March Recap!

Youth Ministry Office February Recap!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant Black History Month For the month of February the Province Youth Ministry Office highlighted the lives of four Black Saints to celebrate Black History Month through our social media handles. These saints are Servant of God Sr. Thea Bowman, St. Josephine Bakhita, Venerable Fr. Augustus Tolton, and Venerable Pierre Toussaint. These holy men and women paved the way for … Continuar leyendo Youth Ministry Office February Recap!

St. Mary’s Youth present at RE Congress!

By: Miriam Hernandez Coordinator for Youth Ministry – Salesian Family Youth Center This year a group of teens from Saint Mary’s attended Youth Day virtually! Youth Day was available online as a Youth Track during Los Angeles Religious Education Congress this past weekend. The theme this year was Proclaim the Promise! and in the words of the coordinating team; the theme speaks of hope during … Continuar leyendo St. Mary’s Youth present at RE Congress!

Salesian 101 Session 3

By: Luis Chacon Salesian Volunteer At the Salesian Family Youth Center, we know of the great gift that the Holy Spirit has given us in the Salesian charism through Don Bosco. We recognize that we will never finish discovering Don Bosco and that his educational system can change the world. With this in mind, several members of the SFYC (Administration, Youth Program, and SHOUT) were … Continuar leyendo Salesian 101 Session 3

Youth Ministry Office News!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant January Recap RE Congress Meeting  On Jan. 4th, the Youth Ministry Department gathered to plan for the virtual Religious Education Congress this year. There will be a virtual booth and resources available to attendees. The schedule will be announced soon. You can register online at recongress.org.  Province Leadership Meeting On Jan. 5th the Youth Ministry Department took part in … Continuar leyendo Youth Ministry Office News!

Youth Ministry Office News!

By: Marisol BecerraYouth Ministry Office Assistant December Recap Youth Ministry Office DecorationsAlthough this Christmas season was different, the youth ministry department decorated the office to be reminded of the HOPE that Christ brings during the holidays. Strenna 2021 Posters and Nameplates “Moved by Hope, See I am making all things new,” is the title that the Rector Major, Fr. Angel Fernandez Artime, has chosen for … Continuar leyendo Youth Ministry Office News!

Youth Ministry Office News!

By: Marisol Becerra Youth Ministry Office Assistant November Recap SUO-SUE Joint Provincial Council Meeting On Nov 4 and 16 the US Delegates of Youth Ministry gathered together to prepare the report to present at the SUO-SUE joint provincial council meeting. On Nov 19-20 the councils met and during this meeting the report was given. The discussions included input given by Fr. Fabian Cardenas and Fr. … Continuar leyendo Youth Ministry Office News!

Corpus Christi Church updates!

By: Fr. Jesse Montes, SDB Corpus Christi Church – San Francisco, CA Halloween Celebration and Crowning of Mary our Help for the month of October. Indelisa Romo, a Religious Ed student aide, and Connie Custodio, Confimation II teacher, donned angel costumes for the Halloween party. Each of the participants received a medal for their participation. A floral crown was used to honor Mary in the … Continuar leyendo Corpus Christi Church updates!

Youth Ministry Office News!

By: Fr. Fabian Cardenas, SDB Editors: Marisol Becerra and Gina Robles Delegate for Youth Ministry Regional meeting of the Youth Ministry delegates. (Interamerica region) Last week the Regional Meeting of the Youth Ministry Delegates for the Interamerica Region was held online via Zoom. This meeting gathered 13 delegates from the Interamerica Region to reflect on the General Chapter 28 and the 2020 to 2026 programme … Continuar leyendo Youth Ministry Office News!

Message to the Province – September 24th, 2020

Dear Salesians and Salesian Family: A few months past I read a quote on social media that struck me to the core. I know I have seen it before but it didn’t resonate with me until then, around the time I found out in the beginning of June that I have been appointed Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco USA West. The quote is … Continuar leyendo Message to the Province – September 24th, 2020

Not just Salesians for young people, but young Salesians

(ANS – Rome – September 10, 2020) – “Young Salesians and accompaniment: Orientations and guidelines.” The first “seed” of reflection that five young Salesians toss to their colleagues and all the Salesians in their three-minute video in five languages ​​for the month of September is to open our eyes to this awareness: there is a large number of young Salesians. It is a charism, a gift, … Continuar leyendo Not just Salesians for young people, but young Salesians

Message to the Province – September 3rd, 2020

Dear Salesians and Salesian Family: It is hard to believe that we are now entering our seventh month of living with the Covid-19 pandemic. I encourage you to be safe and strong and I pray that God’s blessings will continue to manifest itself in everything around you. Speaking of God’s blessings, on Monday, August 31st, there was a Zoom meeting/gathering of Province Leadership. The meeting … Continuar leyendo Message to the Province – September 3rd, 2020

Salesian 101 – Introduction

By: Marisol Becerra Province Youth Ministry Assistant – Office Support Manager This past Saturday Salesian Educators, Cooperators, Religious, and lay people gathered from around the United States for the Salesian 101: Online Salesian Youth Spirituality Formation session. It was a session filled with prayer, presentations, and meaningful discussions. Fr. John Roche led the presentations on the origins of the Salesian family, Don Bosco and St. … Continuar leyendo Salesian 101 – Introduction

Message to the Province – In them you shall find Hope

By: Fr. Fabian Cardenas, SDB Province Delegate for Youth Ministry Translation by: Miss Marisol Becerra, Fr. Joe Farias, SDB, Fr. Mike Gergen, SDB, Fr. Tom Juarez, SDB My dear educative-pastoral communities (EPC), receive my most warm greetings, especially my Salesian brothers, the different members of the Salesian Family, and above all, my dear young people: Our Rector Major, Fr. Angel Fernandez Artime, recently presented to … Continuar leyendo Message to the Province – In them you shall find Hope

Mensaje para la Inspectoria – En ellos, la esperanza vive

Autor: P. Fabian Cardenas, SDB Delegado Inspectorial de Pastoral Juvenil Queridas comunidades educativo-pastorales (CEP), reciban mi más cordial saludo, es espacial mis hermanos salesianos, los diferentes miembros de la familia salesiana y, sobre todo, mis queridos jóvenes: Nuestro Rector Mayor, P. Ángel Fernández Artime, ha presentado recientemente, a toda la congregación, el tema y nombre de la “Strenna” que iluminará nuestra acción educativa-pastoral para el … Continuar leyendo Mensaje para la Inspectoria – En ellos, la esperanza vive

New Province Delegate for Youth Ministry

The Provincial and his Council of the Salesians of Don Bosco San Francisco Province, USA West announce the appointment of Fr. Fabian Cardenas SDB as Province Delegate for Youth Ministry beginning on July 1, 2020. Born in Bogota, Colombia on June 12, 1988 Fabian, grew up in a humble, hard-working, and welcoming family with strong Catholic roots. He came to know the Salesians of Don … Continuar leyendo New Province Delegate for Youth Ministry

GTK Newly appointed Delegate for Youth Ministry

Get to Know – “GTK” By: Fr. Fabian Cardenas, SDB Newly appointed Delegate for Youth Ministry Hello Everyone, I am Fabian Cardenas, I was born in Bogota, Colombia on June 12th, 1988. I grew up in a humble, hard-working, welcoming family of Catholic roots. I came to know the Salesians of Don Bosco thanks to my father, who, having studied with them in his youth, … Continuar leyendo GTK Newly appointed Delegate for Youth Ministry

Leading a virtual youth group

By Miriam Hernandez Coordinator for Youth Ministry – Salesian Boys and Girls Club Los Angeles I know youth ministers and teachers alike are all trying to find the best practices to stay connected to the teens in our ministries during this time of quarantine. Many times we might feel so restricted by all the changes happening, I know that I have. The current pandemic has … Continuar leyendo Leading a virtual youth group

SYLC Cancellation Letter

After much prayer and discussion, the program team for the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC), has made the difficult decision to cancel SYLC 2020 scheduled for June 14-19, 2020 at Camp St. Francis in Aptos, California. This decision did not come lightly; in fact, in dialogue with the Provincial and his Council, along with state health officials, we acknowledge that the health, well-being, and safety … Continuar leyendo SYLC Cancellation Letter

Battles with Dragons

By Paul DeValle CYM – St. Luke’s Parish, Stockton St. Luke’s high school age Youth Ministries has once again been called to battle!  Dragonslayer 2020 stretches out over four months serving as an instrument for evangelization and outreach to area youth and calls back those who we haven’t seen in a while.  Each of our four teams:  The Lords, Counts, Barons and Knights are under … Continuar leyendo Battles with Dragons

“Enjoying the one-day delusion that I’ll follow through with my resolutions”

By: Janelle Siqueiros Young Adult Leader – Savio Parish What about following through with the resolution? Remember that life can get in the way, but slowly progressing your goals little by little can help and go a long way. For example, maybe just starting off by going exercising one day, and then maybe in a couple months moving to twice a day. Setting reasonable goals … Continuar leyendo “Enjoying the one-day delusion that I’ll follow through with my resolutions”

SYLC Spirit Team Retreat Begins!

Pray for our SYLC Spirit Team Youth Animators as they begin their first retreat in preparation for SYLC 2020! Isabel Atendid (Salesian College Preparatory) Dylan Chan (Salesian College Preparatory) Aidan Cuellar (Bishop Mora Salesian High School) Joshua Espinoza (Bishop Mora Salesian High School) Victoria Figueroa (St. Dominic Savio Parish) Lorenzo Gaytan (Don Bosco Tech) Sophia Ignacio (Salesian College Preparatory) Jorge Lapizco (Bishop Mora Salesian High … Continuar leyendo SYLC Spirit Team Retreat Begins!

Novices Host St. Anthony’s Youth Group

By Nelly Nguyen & Br. Vien Nguyen, SDB St. Anthony’s Youth Group On November 23, 2018, St. Anthony’s Youth Group were invited to come and enjoy a day packed with fun activities and sessions put together by Novices John and Kevin. We were welcomed into the Salesian facilities and started the day with a short session on God’s love for us through song as well … Continuar leyendo Novices Host St. Anthony’s Youth Group

Salesian Youth Movement Young Adults Advent Evening of Prayer

By: Marisol Becerra Youth Ministry Office Assistant Last Thursday, the Salesian Youth Movement with the Youth Ministry Office organized an Advent Prayer Night for the young adults in the area. This prayer night was hosted at De Sales hall by the young men in formation. The night began with joyful Christmas music and delicious food. There were about 20 young adults that came from different … Continuar leyendo Salesian Youth Movement Young Adults Advent Evening of Prayer

Annual Thanksgiving Tijuana Mission Trip

By: J.C Montenegro Savio Youth Ministry’s Annual Thanksgiving Tijuana Mission trip is an awesome opportunity for you. In 2002 St. Dominic Savio and St. John Bosco, created the Salesian Missionaries to Tijuana program. They saw the need for a deeper formation and understanding of the catholic social justice for young people who were involved in youth ministry programs. In 2003 St. Dominic Savio extended an … Continuar leyendo Annual Thanksgiving Tijuana Mission Trip

What’s going on at Savio

By: Janelle Siqueiros Savio Youth Group Leader Have you ever been bored on a Monday night? Nothing that seems to catch your interest? Come to our Monday Youth Group! Our youth group consists of many activities that help youth learn about their themselves and their spirituality. This program challenges the way they think about life situations and gives participants different perspectives on various of things. … Continuar leyendo What’s going on at Savio

Savio Youth Ministry at Fall Fiesta

By: Janelle Siqueiros Savio Youth Ministry Leader St. Dominic Savio’s Fall Fiesta was September 27th-29th. In this fiesta, we have many carnival rides and games. Along with all these fun activities, we have food booths. Our youth ministry is glad to always be in charge of the hot dog booth! During the hot dog booth, we had one adult volunteer lead the shift along with … Continuar leyendo Savio Youth Ministry at Fall Fiesta

Salesian Oratory at St. Dominic Savio Parish

As a promising new school year begins, St. Dominic Savio like to announce that Oratory returns as well! With that being said. Now you may ask… What is Oratory? Oratory is a place that allows kids to learn about prayer in a fun, safe environment. Oratory is comprised of many activities. Before starting, we always start with an opening prayer, and ask that the kids … Continuar leyendo Salesian Oratory at St. Dominic Savio Parish

Young Professionals Gathering

As part of responding to Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit, and the Provincial Chapter’s call to better accompanying young adults, the Province Youth Ministry Office recently hosted a gathering of young professionals for an evening of networking, dialogue, and fellowship. The purpose of the gathering was to engage young adults from our works who currently are rooted in their professional life and wanted to … Continuar leyendo Young Professionals Gathering

Provincial Council, Delegates, and Coordinators Meeting

By: Andres Neria On Thursday August 15th, the Feast of the Assumption, our Provincial Fr. Ted and his council met with the delegates and coordinators of the province. The purpose of this meeting, and future meetings to come, is to explore and implement better ways to serve our province at all levels. This idea was presented at this year’s Provincial Chapter and came out as … Continuar leyendo Provincial Council, Delegates, and Coordinators Meeting

Province Youth Ministry Team

By: Andres Neria As Delegate of Social Communication I attended the first Province Youth Ministry Team meeting for the 2019-2020 pastoral year on Saturday August 17th in the Learning  Commons at St. John Bosco High School, Bellflower. The meeting began with a short prayer and introduction of new and old members of the team, followed by reviewing the Province Organic Plan. The morning continued with … Continuar leyendo Province Youth Ministry Team

City of Saints 2019

The City of Saints teen conference offered an authentic and realistic perspective on how to live out our catholic faith. The speakers provided hope and encouragement to the reality that we are all necessary members of the church. They all emphasized that by praying and taking part in the sacraments on a regular basis, we can achieve holiness in the ordinary of our daily lives. … Continuar leyendo City of Saints 2019

Meet the Youth Ministry Offices newest member!

By Marisol Becerra – Youth Ministry Office Support Assistant Hello my name is Marisol Becerra. I’m from Baldwin Park, California and my home parish is St. John the Baptist. I graduated from Cal Poly Pomona in 2016 and I hope to begin a Master’s program in 2020 to become a licensed counselor. I have been a volunteer at my parish for the past 7 years. … Continuar leyendo Meet the Youth Ministry Offices newest member!

SYLC 2019

“We are the now of God.” This theme for SYLC 2019 was inspired from Pope Francis’ apostolic letter “Christus Vivit,” a follow up to the 2018 Synod of Bishops on Young People, Discernment and Vocational Accompaniment.The 86+ youth and adults at this year’s SYLC, which took place at Camp St Francis in Aptos, CA, from June 9-15, was another testament to the empowerment of youth … Continuar leyendo SYLC 2019

Camp Savio 2016: Visiting Deacons from Mexico

By Salesian Deacons Fernando Javier Hernández Reyes, David Raúl Reynoso Ruiz, and José de Jesús Medrano Pérez (Camp Savio 2016 – Bellflower, CA) – The experience of only three days in the Salesian Community in Bellflower has been of a great wealth for our vocational and pastoral growth.  This experience has a great value knowing that in one year we will finish our theological studies. We want to … Continuar leyendo Camp Savio 2016: Visiting Deacons from Mexico

Salesian Youth Leadership Conference 2016

By Andres Neria – Salesian Young Adult (Camp St. Francis, CA) – Salesian Youth Leadership Conference, or SYLC, just took place at Camp St. Francis in Aptos, California in the third week of June, where more than 75 youth leaders gathered to learn from and support each other in their ministries. The week started out with a bang with a musical about the life of Don … Continuar leyendo Salesian Youth Leadership Conference 2016