(ANS – Lima) – On 28 June, the Salesian Cooperators of Peru celebrated the 150th anniversary of their Association with a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Bishop Salvador Piñeiro, himself a Salesian Cooperator and long associated with the work of Don Bosco. Representatives from various groups within the Salesian Family took part in the celebration, bearing witness to the unity and communion that characterise the Salesian mission. Bishop Piñeiro recalled with gratitude the deep bond that unites him to Salesian spirituality, emphasising the influence exerted by Fr Jorge Sosa, his teacher and guide during his early years of priesthood. It was from him that he learnt Don Bosco’s educational method, based on closeness to people, welcome, trust and accompaniment. He also recalled his own joining the Salesian Cooperators, which took place at the invitation of the Rector Major through a letter handed to him by the then Salesian Provincial of Peru, Fr Vicente Santilli. In his homily, he then urged those present to persevere in the mission of evangelisation in accordance with their lay vocation, bearing witness to hope within the family, at work and in society, with particular attention to the most vulnerable children, adolescents and young people. The day concluded with a fraternal lunch attended by around a hundred participants, strengthening the bonds between the various groups and renewing the spirit of family and service that continues to characterise the Salesian charism.
