(ANS - Rome) - After their reflection on our origins during the introductory pilgrimage to the Salesian places, the Chapter members had a second introduction with the reports on the different sectors and regions. These reports constitute a significant part of the animation and government of the Congregation.

The Councillors in charge of the different departments and regions gave their reports one after another, and the Chapter members greatly appreciated all fifteen reports. There was a lot of variety in the reports, light and shadow,  targets reached and challenges that are constantly being renewed, as well as some initial proposals for the new six-year term that is about to begin.

The reports were illustrated with images, charts, slides and videos.

It is virtually impossible to make even a partial synthesis of such a wide and varied situation. Sometimes they highlighted efforts that brought little success but they also looked to the future. The dream of Don Bosco is still alive and urging us forward.

Frequently they drew attention to the need to improve collaboration and the pooling of resources. This priority will mean "coordination and cooperation at different levels of formation", in a strengthening of the "co-ordination between the three departments of the mission and that of formation", and the creation of a more organized system in the department of Social Communication.

They also pointed out that some regions, particularly Africa-Madagascar, Italy and the Middle East, and Western Europe, have been involved in an extensive internal reconfiguration during the last six years, with the creation of new legal jurisdictions and the unification and consolidation of others.

There is another positive and comforting fact deserving of mention: there have been many formative and leadership interventions at different levels, as well as celebrations and specific cultural events - such as, for example, conferences and publications – that have done a lot to bring about a growth in a sense of belonging to the congregation. These include the reception of the guidelines given in GC26 and a renewed attention to educational needs in today's world.

Another thing that is common to all the regions is the increasing number of collaborators, members of the Salesian Family and other lay people. There is also a common commitment to work for greater fruitfulness in vocations ministry and to initial and ongoing formation.

The "return to Don Bosco", which was one of the priorities of GC26, has gained momentum especially with the pilgrimage of the relic of Don Bosco in the five continents. We can speak of charismatic revival in the congregation, as well as renewed enthusiasm for da mihi animas.

Published 27/02/2014