“Saint Peter’s Square was packed, packed with people,” – the Salesian centenarian+ who was present for the occasion recalls – “There were so many, so many young people; lot’s of families, dads, mums, children.”

Born in March 1908, Brother  Novelli also took part in the transfer of Don Bosco’s body from Valsalice to Valdocco, Turin, on the occasion of the beatification which took place in 1929. Immediately afterwards transferred to the Roman Province the Salesian Brother was involved in organising the great event of the  canonisation.

In the video, which is available on the ANSchannel, Brother Novelli recalls the solemnity of the celebration and, quite amused, the unexpected downpour that descended on the Square: “At the end there was such a downpour, we were are wet through!” “Rome was taken over by the Salesians, groups large and small came in from everywhere … it was quite a ‘spectacular’, well-worth seeing … really impressive!”

His memories also include the atmosphere of devotion and also the frenetic  preparations going on at the Salesian House of the Sacred Heart where Brother Novelli was working.

“Don Bosco has been something huge in my life,” Brother Novelli says concluding the interview.

Published 30/03/2009