(ANS - Rome) - "What change of mentality and what commitments can we envisage for a more charismatic approach to the reality of the family?" This was the fundamental question that, in the light of the last synod of bishops, guided the work of the General Councils of the Salesians (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) in their joint meeting that took place yesterday, Monday 11 January, at the Salesian Generalate.

The introductory reflection on the family was given by Fr Andrea Bozzolo, SDB, Professor of Systematic Theology in the Faculty of Theology of the UPS in Turin. In his talk, he presented the most relevant elements of the Synodal Report and suggested a key to interpreting the Synod. He pointed out some elements that call for a change of affective culture needed for evangelization nowadays and in particular some points that are relevant to the Salesian charism.

On this last topic he stressed:

• Emotional and affective education of young people: This is a mission field recommended to the Salesian Family by the Pope and one that requires a serious cultural investment in which the SDB and FMA have to commit their theological and educational resources.
• Accompanying young people as they prepare for marriage: This requires attention to a variety of cultural backgrounds and calls for education in the Christian concept of fatherhood and motherhood.
• Pastoral work with families who come into contact with SDB and FMA works. The Salesian educational project should be for them a point of access to the Gospel and help them to come out of the isolation they often find themselves in.
• The contribution that lay married people, fathers and mothers, can make to the development and practice of the preventive system;
• In particular, the specific contribution that can be given by families that are already part of the Salesian Family, through apostolic commitment and direct testimony.
• Finally, re-thinking Youth Ministry in “generational” terms, with the rediscovery of the fundamental role that the family has in the transmission of the faith, and the deep connection between youth ministry and family ministry.

All these issues were the subject of specific reflection by the members of the councils. They dealt with them first in small groups, and then in a shared discussion.

The meeting was characterized by great fraternity and communion. It ended with a reminder of some common themes from the year’s programme such as the upcoming Days of Spirituality of the Salesian Family in 2016 and the combined Retreats scheduled for late June and July in Santa Fosca, Belluno, Italy.

The next meeting will take place on 11 July 2016.

Published 12/01/2016