Having served for nearly a year as Regional Councillor for EAO, Fr. Matthews highlighted both the immensity and the vitality of a Region that stretches from Mongolia in the north to Australia and Tasmania in the south, encompassing 23 countries across Asia and the Pacific.
A Region of Diversity and Rich Cultural Identity
The East Asia–Oceania Region includes countries such as Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, Myanmar, Pakistan, China, Hong Kong, and many Pacific nations. Far from being culturally homogeneous, the Region is marked by extraordinary diversity.
“In Myanmar alone,” Fr. Matthews noted, “there are around 125 different ethnic groups and languages. Papua New Guinea counts more than 200.” Each country, each culture, and each ethnic community represents a unique context in which the Salesian charism is inculturated and lived.
This cultural richness is matched by demographic significance. Asia is the most populated continent in the world, home to an immense youth population. For the Salesians, this reality translates into both an opportunity and a responsibility.
120 Years of Salesian Presence in Asia
Don Bosco himself had expressed the desire to go as a missionary to Asia and Oceania. His dream became reality when the first Salesian missionaries arrived in Asia approximately 120 years ago. From those early beginnings, the Salesian presence has steadily expanded.
Today, the Salesians are present in all countries of continental Asia except Singapore, as well as in several Pacific nations. The EAO Region comprises 12 Provinces and counts approximately 1,400 Salesians. Of these, around 400 serve in Vietnam and about 200 in the Philippines, alongside numerous members of the Salesian Family who collaborate in the mission.
A Mission focused on Young People
Across the Region, Salesians are engaged in a wide range of youth ministry settings: schools, secondary institutions, technical and vocational training centers, parishes, oratories, and programs for children and young people with special needs.
In a continent where millions of young people are searching for education, guidance, and hope, the Salesian presence is both timely and necessary. “There are so many young people in Asia,” Fr. Matthews emphasized. “This means there is truly a great need for the Salesians.”
The name “Don Bosco” enjoys strong recognition and respect in many Asian countries. Former pupils of Salesian institutions contribute significantly to society in various professional fields. This credibility opens doors and strengthens the Church’s educational and pastoral outreach.
Accompanying the Provinces
As Regional Councillor, Fr. Matthews has spent the past twelve months visiting numerous countries within this vast territory. Given the geographical extension and the complexity of 12 Provinces and vice provinces, the animation and governance responsibilities require constant presence and accompaniment.
Recently, he presided over the consultation process for the appointment of a new superior for the vice province of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Similar consultations are scheduled before the end of the year in Myanmar and Vietnam, ensuring continuity of leadership and fidelity to the Salesian mission.
A Living Mission of Hope
The East Asia–Oceania Region stands today as a vibrant and expanding mission field where Don Bosco’s charism continues to take root in diverse cultures and contexts. Amid demographic challenges, ethnic diversity, and social complexities, the Salesians remain committed to walking with young people—educating, evangelizing, and accompanying them toward a future of dignity and hope.
In a region where youth represent both promise and urgency, the Salesian mission continues to echo the founder’s original dream: to be present wherever young people are, especially those most in need.
