(ANS - Aosta) – The pilgrimage of the relic of Don Bosco has continued in recent weeks in Piedmont and Valle d'Aosta. Many events were organized ​​for the occasion and many tributes were paid testifying to the esteem in which Don Bosco and his spiritual heirs are held.

In the diocese of Saluzzo, where the relic stayed for just twenty-four hours, more than 15,000 people came to venerate it. The relic arrived from Mondovì on the evening of 8 January, and attracted a steady stream of people, first at the Salesian Oratory for a young people’s prayer vigil, then the following day at the Cathedral, until eventually it left for Fossano. The participation of the young people, especially those from the Salesian schools, was particularly enthusiastic. 

In Cuneo, too, the relic was received with warmth and affection by the religious and civil authorities and especially by a large number of families with children. "Don Bosco loved children,” said Bishop Joseph Cavallotto, Bishop of Cuneo and Fossano.“He wanted them to be happy. These days are a time of grace."

After the next few days in the dioceses of Pinerolo, Susa and Ivrea, the relic then spent 19-20 January in the diocese of Aosta. The relic was greeted in the morning by Bishop Franco Lovignana, the regional president, Augusto Rollandin, and the Mayor of Aosta, Giordano Bruno.  In the afternoon there was a celebration at the cathedral especially for members of the local Salesian Family.

"Don Bosco has much to say to the society and church of today,” said Bishop Lovignana. “He had a positive outlook on the situation of young people (...) He knew very well the evils of his time and the dangers facing young people, but with a look of hope and love, he was able to attract them and try to understand them, to love them and bring out the best in them."

Augusto Rollandin, President of the Region, said: "Don Bosco is a saint much loved in the Valle d'Aosta. We are deeply grateful to him, as are people in many other parts of the world, for being a mentor and inspiration to many young people, founding the Salesian Congregation and that of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians."

Yesterday, 21 January, after almost 5 years, the relic of Don Bosco returned to the diocese of Turin, visiting the towns of Cirie, Cuorgné and Lanzo Torinese.

Published 22/01/2014