(ANS - Asti)- The pilgrimage with the relic of Don Bosco continues in Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta with extraordinary numbers of people. The programme was planned together with the seventeen diocesan commissions that make up the region. The relic has already visited the dioceses of Novara, Biella, Vercelli, Acqui, Alessandria, Alba and Casale and is now in the diocese of Asti.

"Everywhere we have gone we have been met with love, faith, sincere devotion on the part of all,” says Fr Luca Barone, provincial coordinator of the event. “Squares and cathedrals full of young people and adults are proof of the attraction of Don Bosco as a father who takes care of his children, intercedes for them and points the way to a happy life in time and eternity."

The relic of Don Bosco spent Christmas in Nizza Monferrato. In his welcoming speech the city's mayor, Flavio Pesce, said: "Nizza gave you the joy of seeing so many beautiful youth grow in the ways of faith, solidarity and family. This city and its people welcome you with open heart and heads held high to receive your blessing and your encouragement."

On the first day of the year, the relic was hosted by the town of Casale. In the afternoon it was received in the cathedral for a solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by the bishop of the diocese, Mons. James Lanzetti.

Yesterday, 6 January, Solemnity of the Epiphany, the relic of Don Bosco was in Asti. In the morning, Bishop Francesco Guido Ravinale presided at the Eucharist in the presence of the relic, while in the afternoon the relic was venerated by children, young people and families.

The Salesian Family is deeply rooted in the area and many people speak of the education, faith and culture they received from the Salesians and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.

"Official receptions and solemn celebrations alternate with vigils for young people, popular celebrations and catechesis” says the Provincial, Fr Stefano Martoglio.  “We are struck by the constant flow of people.  It is as if people were attracted to Don Bosco like a magnet, in a continuous and uninterrupted dialogue of hearts."

Don Bosco is back in his native land. His footprints are more than just memories of past deeds done by him in many towns and villages. Don Bosco maintains a living presence in the region of Piedmont which recognizes him as one of its own and has recourse to him with faith.

Published 07/01/2014