Argentina – January 2026 – More than 50 young people from the Salesian Province of Northern Argentina (ARN) chose to pause their summer holidays to serve other communities. They dedicated time and energy to oratories, missions, and various initiatives across the country. There is a dimension of faith that can only be understood through lived experience. The Summer Salesian Missionary Volunteering program revives the essential Gospel call to move forward. The Rector Major highlights this in the 2026 Strenna: “Do whatever He tells you – Believers, free to serve.” Arriving in new places, the young volunteers set aside their usual roles to make themselves available. Their mission takes very concrete forms: leading games in sunny courtyards, preparing catechetical activities, organizing formation sessions and prayer moments for youth leaders, and helping with maintenance work. Fr. Juan Pablo Tobanelli, Provincial Delegate for Missionary Animation, shared: “Each year, our team is amazed and encouraged to see so many young people begin a process of accompaniment in their communities to discern and prepare for these experiences. We are also grateful to the Salesian houses that open their doors in summer, welcoming volunteers with dedication and care.”
