(ANS – São Paulo) – The coordinators and pastoral leaders of the FMA Province of Our Lady of Aparecida (BAP) and the SDB Province of Our Lady Help of Christians (BSP) held the first preparatory meeting for FEST 2026 on the morning of 24 March 2026. Organised annually, FEST is one of the largest Salesian events, bringing together around 5,000 young people. This year marks its 26th edition, having established itself as a space for youth leadership and the celebration of diverse pastoral expressions. The programme began with Fr Cláudio Motta, Delegate for Youth Ministry in the BSP Province, who led the prayer session. Following this, Sister Teresa Cristina Domiciano, Provincial Coordinator of Youth Ministry, recalled the theme of the 2026 Strenna: “Do whatever he tells you. Believers, free to serve”. Stela Soares, pastoral coordinator of the BAP province, presented the results of the FEST evaluation survey, highlighting the positive aspects of the 25th-anniversary edition. Based on this survey, the group carried out a detailed analysis of the previous event, identifying the progress made and the areas still requiring improvement. The meeting also featured reflections on the essence and dynamics of FEST, as well as preliminary discussions on the organisation of the next edition. Among the decisions taken, the theme of the 2026 Strenna was approved as the slogan.
