A Celebration Marked by Wide Participation
The feast brought together a vibrant and diverse assembly of people. Salesian Sisters, former pupils, young people, benefactors, and friends of the Salesian Family took part in the celebration, reaffirming a long‑standing tradition that makes Don Bosco’s feast a true family event in Moscow.
Strong Diplomatic and International Presence
The celebration was further enriched by the presence of distinguished guests from the diplomatic community. Among those attending were the Ambassador of Argentina, accompanied by his Secretary, members of the diplomatic corps of the Italian Embassy, representatives of Italian associations in Russia – AIIR – including an Italian women’s club actively involved in supporting charitable initiatives—and representatives from the Polish and German Embassies. Their participation highlighted the esteem and trust enjoyed by the Salesian mission.
An Italian Spirit in Honour of Don Bosco
In honour of Don Bosco’s Italian origins, the celebration took on a distinctly Italian character. Following the Eucharistic celebration, a cultural and theatrical performance was presented, portraying Italy through its ancient, medieval, and modern periods. The performance, rich in colour and meaning, captivated the audience and was received with great appreciation.
More than Thirty Years of Salesian Mission in Moscow
The Salesian orphanage in Moscow has been serving poor and abandoned children for more than thirty years. While the liturgical feast of Don Bosco is traditionally celebrated on 31 January—and was in fact celebrated in the parish—the celebration at the orphanage was held on a later weekday to allow for greater participation. This year’s feast‑day Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr Dariusz Gojko, Director of the Salesian Community in Moscow, in the absence of the Bishop due to illness.
A Feast of Fraternity and Hope
The celebration concluded with a festive gathering marked by joy, fraternity, and gratitude. Even amid winter’s harsh conditions, the Feast of Don Bosco once again demonstrated how his charism continues to bring together people of different cultures and nations around a shared mission of education, care, and hope.
{gallery}Festa DB Russia{/gallery}
