Democratic Republic of the Congo – Visit of the General Councillor for Youth Ministry and the Regional Councillor for Central and West Africa to “Boscolac”

A Eucharist to Choose the Good

The day began with the Eucharistic celebration that brought together the Boscolac student community. Presided over by Fr Owoudou and concelebrated by about fifteen Salesian priests, including Fr Bejarano, the Mass set the tone for the entire visit: Refocusing the mission on Christ.

In his homily, the celebrant invited the young people to make the courageous choice of good, in a context where evil often presents itself as the easier path. Referring to the vocational call, he reminded them that following Christ means carrying one’s cross each day with trust and perseverance. A simple, direct, and deeply Salesian message: to become responsible young people, rooted in faith and committed to building their future.

At the Heart of Formation: Accompanying Vocations

After the celebration, the two members of the General Council visited the various wings of the House: the novitiate, the primary school, the secondary school, and the Vocational Training Centre. Everywhere they witnessed the vitality of an educational project faithful to the intuition of John Bosco: to form “honest citizens and good Christians.”

The central moment was Fr Bejarano’s meeting with the ten novices of Boscolac. In a fraternal and open atmosphere, the discussion focused especially on Youth Ministry as a fundamental pillar of the Salesian mission. The dialogue encouraged the novices to cultivate a shepherd’s heart, close to the young, capable of listening, creativity, and apostolic boldness.

A Salesian Family Journeying Toward Maturity

The visit continued in the evening with a meeting between Fr Bejarano, Fr Owoudou, and members of the Salesian Family of Goma at the “St John Bosco–Bosconia” Community. The discussion centred on the anticipated elevation of the Delegation to a Vice-Province and the new responsibilities that this stage of growth entails. It was an important moment to reflect on the role of the laity in shared responsibility for the mission and in the harmonious growth of the different branches of the Salesian Family. Emphasis was placed on communion, collaboration, and fidelity to the charism.

The day concluded with a moment of fraternal sharing in an atmosphere of simplicity and joy. At Boscolac, this visit will remain a living reminder that the Salesian mission is built through closeness, solid formation, and shared hope.

Jambo Vijana,
Delegation Bullettin AFC-EST