Purpose: Building Mutual Knowledge Among Leaders
The aim of the formation day was to foster mutual acquaintance among those who hold a guiding or accompanying role within the local groups of the association.
Morning Session: The State of the Salesian Cooperators in Korea
The central moment of the formation took place in the morning, with a keynote address on the current state of the Salesian Cooperators delivered by the Provincial Coordinator, Shin Tae-heung Laurencio. Ranging from objective statistical data to the major challenges facing the daily life of local centres, the presentation addressed the reality of the association with candour, with a view to fostering healthy and robust growth.
According to the figures presented, the Korean Province currently has approximately 800 members, comprising active members, “dormant” members, and candidates in initial formation. In light of these numbers, Shin Tae-heung Laurencio repeatedly stressed the importance of “cultivating” formation — not as a mere formality, but as a genuine journey of discernment and accompaniment.
He also drew particular attention to the value of monthly meetings, urging that they not be treated as ends in themselves, but as occasions to learn from one another’s stories, refine one’s character, labour together in shared pastoral work, and experience a genuine sense of communion.
Further explicit guidance was offered on the sound management of local centres, underscoring the need to follow best practices and to avoid any course of action that might wound the unity or harmony of the group.
Afternoon Session: Planning for the 150th Anniversary and Local Revitalisation
In the afternoon, a lively assembly was held on the theme of the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Association (9 May 2026) and the revitalisation of local centres. It was a moment of enriching exchanges and stimulating ideas, shared by local leaders from across the country. The various local communities also presented the activities they have planned to mark the anniversary.
Closing Mass: Love, the Cross, and Resurrection
The meeting concluded with a Mass presided over by the Provincial Superior of the Salesians in South Korea (KOR), Fr Marcello Baek Kwang-hyun. Drawing together the threads of the day, he reflected gently on how genuine love is not made of perfect impulses and flawless dedication, but of a generous embrace of imperfect reality. “Love is the fruit of carrying the cross of defeat and the subsequent Resurrection (…) Love without the cross is like a poisonous mushroom.”— Fr Marcello Baek Kwang-hyun, Provincial Superior of KOR
Acknowledgements: Honouring 150 Years of Faithful Service
Finally, the Provincial paid tribute to all the Salesian Cooperators who have built a 150-year history by believing in Jesus and Don Bosco. He extended special thanks to the Provincial Coordinator, Shin Tae-heung Laurencio, as well as to Yoon Jong-geol, President of the committee organising activities for the association’s 150th anniversary.
