The aim of the meeting, as Fr Chávez mentioned in his letter of invitation, is to define the ‘Project for Europe’ as requested by the 26th General Chapter and confirmed by the Pope in his message and in his address during the Audience with the Chapter members, to re-launch the Salesian charism in the Old Continent.

Clarifying the nature and the aims of the role of the Congregation in Europe will be the task of the Rector Major and his Council which he wishes to share with the Provincials, those who are principally responsible for  the animation and government of the Salesians in this part of the world.

Taking part, in addition to the Rector Major and the members of his Council  are the 33 Superiors of the Provinces, Vice Provinces and Delegation in Europe and 18 others including members of Departments, NGO, and representatives of the General Council of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.

Proceedings will officially begin tomorrow morning Friday 28 November, with Mass at which Cardinal  Camillo Ruini will preside in the Basilica of St Paul outside the walls. This will be followed by the opening address of the Rector Major who will provide points for reflection and suggest items for discussion in the working groups. On Saturday 29 November there will be a talk by Magdi Cristiano Allam, a journalist and Deputy  Editor of the Italian Daily “Corriere della Sera”.

The meeting will end on Sunday 30 November.

Published 27/11/2008