The three days spent in an open and friendly atmosphere were attended by representatives of  21 of the 26 groups which at present make up the “vast movement of persons for the salvation of the young”, which sprang from the heart and the spirit of Don Bosco.

The work of the meeting which was chaired by Fr Adriano Bregolin, Vicar of the Rector Major, focused first of all on a knowledge of the apostolic activities of the various groups of the Salesian Family. A very special attention was given to the three latest groups whose membership was approved by the Rector Major and his Council in January: Cançao Nova, The Disciples and the Michaelite Sisters.

On Saturday afternoon the Rector Major Fr Pascual Chávez attended the meeting and gave an outline of the theme for the 2010 Strenna dedicated to evangelisation, which is the next few days will be made more specific.

On the basis of the theme of the Strenna, there followed discussion of various specific initiatives, especially some more innovative ones in which the groups of the Salesian Family are at present engaged in the evangelisation of the young. Particular attention was given to the accompaniment and  the formation of young families. In fact those taking part agreed that educational activity on behalf of the young requires the close cooperation and involvement of their families.

There was also some consideration of the organisation of the next in the series of  the “Spirituality Days of the Salesian Family” being planned for 21 to  24 January 2010. The Group decided to focus primarily on the participation of representatives of the various groups, religious and lay, who are engaged in youth ministry.

The point was again made of the importance of the Provincial and Local Committees of the Salesian Family functioning well. It was strongly recommended that using modern information technology a collection should be made and preserved of pastoral experiences as a resource for the benefit of all the members of the Salesian Family, and in this way also encouraging greater coordination among the various groups.

Published 01/06/2009