The Salesian work in Aïdjèdo: a place of welcome and popular education
The visit began at the Maman Marguerite Centre, located in Aïdjèdo, near the Dantokpa international market (Cotonou). For several years, this centre has been carrying out socio-educational activities aimed at the most vulnerable young people and families. The guest held a meeting with the centre’s managers. During the interview, Fr. Xec Marques, the director, presented the centre and the various activities that take place there. On site, Archbishop Ruiz Mainardi highlighted the closeness of the educators, the simplicity of the welcome and the effectiveness of Salesian pedagogy. He then encouraged those in charge to continue their mission with young people in vulnerable situations. He also emphasised the relevance of the preventive method in an urban context faced with multiple social challenges. At the Maman Marguerite centre in Aïdjèdo, Archbishop Ruiz Mainardi also visited the various workshops: sewing and embroidery, glasswork, hairdressing and the students in class.
The Saint Jean Bosco Vocational School in Zogbo: a discussion on educational challenges
The second stage of the visit took the Nuncio to the Saint Jean Bosco Salesian Vocational School in Zogbo, renowned for its technical and vocational training. After a warm welcome, he had a one-to-one meeting with the management board. The Director, Mr Patrick HINVI, presented the various training sectors and the school’s mission: to offer comprehensive training combining technical skills, human education and spiritual guidance.
Impressed by the quality of the work accomplished, the Nuncio congratulated the teaching staff. He recognised the intelligence and potential of the students. However, he called on them to use technology responsibly, particularly mobile phones. In his view, such mastery strengthens intellectual autonomy and develops discernment. Finally, he encouraged them to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the institution in order to better integrate into an increasingly competitive job market. To understand how the EPS St Jean Bosco in Cotonou operates, the Apostolic Nuncio visited the training workshops: electricity, civil engineering, plumbing and IT
The parish of Saint Antoine de Padoue in Zogbo: a time of ecclesial communion
The last stage of the visit took place at the parish of Saint Antoine de Padoue in Zogbo. Welcomed by the Salesians of the community, the Nuncio discovered the catechetical, liturgical and social initiatives carried out by the parish. This was followed by a time of exchange with the Salesians of Don Bosco of the works of Cotonou in order to inquire about the challenges of the mission (the joys and difficulties encountered). He encouraged them and conveyed the Holy Father’s greetings and encouragement.
The visit of the Nuncio, Archbishop Rubén Darío Ruiz Mainardi, ended with a time of prayer marked by the Eucharist which he presided over in the parish chapel.
In his homily, the Nuncio explained that in a world troubled by lies, confusion and a loss of bearings, only faith in the Incarnation, death and resurrection of Christ gives meaning, hope and true peace to humanity. ‘Let us not forget to proclaim the Mystery of Redemption if we want to change the world, allowing the Lord to reveal the thoughts of hearts,’ he concluded.
{gallery}Benin – Visita Nunzio 2026{/gallery}
