(ANS - Rome) - Several meetings were held in Rome from 7 to 11 January to coordinate the activities of the six Provinces of the Salesians in Italy (CISI). From 7 to 9 January, the Provincials met with Delegates for Youth Ministry and those in charge of different sectors at national level. Subsequently the meeting included also the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and the Provincial Economers.

In the first few days, time was given to sharing the work done and the pastoral processes that had been initiated.  This allowed for discussion and programming at national level on issues such as the proposed pastoral plan for the year 2016, identifying guidelines for the way forward over the next few years, and the presentation and study of the work done by the different offices.

On Saturday 9 January they held a plenary meeting attended by Fr Stefano Martoglio, Councillor for the Mediterranean region. At this meeting they were able to present to the Provincials of the six Italian Provinces the fruits of their earlier work, and the suggestions and guidelines that had emerged.

The work of the Provincials continued on the following days. On the morning of Sunday 10 January they continued their work at the level of the congregation while in the afternoon they shared with the Provincials of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Italy. Several themes were dealt with by the Superiors: for example, updates and lines of action for the coordination and development of the Salesian school and reflection on the establishment and animation of communities.

The coordination of Salesian work in Italy is seen as a challenge, of many colours, of light and shade. Certainly there is no shortage of problems in the complex situation in which we are living, but there are also experiences that offer good evidence of working together with notable prospects.

On Monday 11 January, the meeting of the Provincials was enriched by the presence of the Provincial Economers. With them they analysed the state of the accounts and administration of the whole of Salesian Italy. Some issues related to management and organizational culture were examined. By late afternoon, all the participants left to return to their provinces.

The next meeting will take place in late April, in Barcelona, ​​Spain, with the Provincials of the Mediterranean Region.

Published 12/1/2016