A Celebration of Faith and Shared History
The celebration began with a moment of welcome and fellowship, followed by prayer led by Fr André Luiz Simões, Provincial Economer and Rector-President of the “Liceu Coração de Jesus,” and Mr Vitor Aladic, Salesian Brother and Administrator of the house. The official opening was conducted by the shelter’s Director, Rafael Bressan Olivério, who highlighted the importance of the history built collectively over two and a half decades of mission. The Provincial of Brazil–São Paulo, Fr Alexandre Luís de Oliveira, also addressed those present, emphasizing the Salesian identity of the work and its fidelity to the charism in caring for and promoting social development.
Partnerships that Sustain the Mission
The anniversary also underscored the importance of collaboration between the “Liceu Coração de Jesus” and the Municipality of São Paulo, particularly through the Municipal Secretariat for Assistance and Social Development (SMADS), which has been essential for the continuity and strengthening of services. Renata Cardozo, Social Assistance and Development Analyst and coordinator of the partnership in 2021 and 2022, stressed the value of cooperation between the social work and public administration to ensure qualified assistance and effective public policies for beneficiaries.
Memory, Gratitude, and Active Participation
The history of “Abrigo Dom Bosco” was recalled by Regina Lopes de Oliveira Pina, the first Director of the shelter, who led the mission for over 17 years and played a decisive role in its consolidation. Participants were then invited to view the “Varal de Fotos,” (photo display) an artistic photographic exhibition that revisited significant milestones in the institution’s journey. Cultural performances presented by the beneficiaries, accompanied by socio-educational consultant Janaina dos Santos Conceição, highlighted the transformative potential of the Salesian socio-educational approach. After a time of fraternal fellowship and a visit to the facility, the program continued with a presentation on the current reality of the work. The Director and social worker Viviane Maria de Brito shared data, challenges, and future perspectives, reaffirming the commitment to continually improving services and promoting the autonomy of residents.
Renewed Commitment to Dignity and Inclusion
The event concluded with closing address from Mr Vitor Aladic and a blessing given by Fr Cássio Rodrigo de Oliveira, Rector of the Salesian presence in Campos Elíseos, São Paulo. Celebrating its 25 years, “Abrigo Dom Bosco” reaffirmed its mission to continue “welcoming rag pickers with a Salesian heart,” renewing its commitment to be an educational, evangelizing, and dignity-promoting presence in the urban context of São Paulo.
Source: Salesians SSP
