A Formation Path Rooted in the Salesian Charism
The initiative seeks to provide a structured deepening of the charismatic identity, the role of the Delegate, and the dynamics of communion and mission within the Salesian Family. It draws inspiration from the figure and personality of Don Bosco and from the Charter of Identity of the Salesian Family.
Objectives of the Course
The goals are clearly defined: to reflect on the service of the provincial Delegate, to deepen knowledge of the Salesian Family—especially the groups entrusted to each Delegate—and to foster the sharing of experiences and best practices among participants from different contexts.
Opening in Rome
The course began on Sunday, 19 April, in Rome at the Salesian Basilica of the Sacred Heart, with the welcome of participants and presentation of the program. From the outset, the international and synodal dimension of the experience emerged, with an initial exchange on the realities of the Salesian Family in the various provinces represented. The Eucharistic celebration in the Chapel of the Letter from Rome provided a spiritual introduction to the journey.
From Rome to Turin: Discovering the Roots
On Monday, 20 April, participants traveled to Turin and began their sessions in Valdocco, the birthplace of the Salesian charism. They explored the “cradle” of the Salesian Family through a visit to the Don Bosco House Museum and a reflection on Salesian spirituality. The sessions focused on the relationship between Salesians, the Salesian Family, and lay people, also in light of the 29th General Chapter, with particular attention to the accompaniment of the laity. The day concluded with a meeting with members of the primary Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA).
Following Don Bosco’s Journey
On Tuesday, 21 April, the program continued in Castelnuovo Don Bosco and Chieri, key places in the life of the Saint. Don Bosco’s spiritual and charismatic experience was revisited through the lens of family, mission, and spirituality. The Charter of Charismatic Identity was explored further with a contribution from Fr Jose Kuttianimatthathil of the Formation Sector, followed by visits to the places of Don Bosco’s youth. The day ended with a shared reflection on the experience.
Understanding the Role of the Delegate
Wednesday, 22 April, marked a more systematic focus on the role of the Delegate for the Salesian Family, offering an overview of responsibilities, relational dynamics, and consultative bodies at provincial and local levels. In the afternoon, participants returned to Rome.
Deepening the Charismatic Dimension
On Thursday, 23 April, attention shifted to the charismatic dimension and its relevance today. Don Bosco was presented as the founder of a wide charismatic family, with both academic and pastoral insights. Activities included the implementation of operational guidelines to strengthen knowledge of the Charter of Identity and the sense of belonging. The day also highlighted the feminine dimension of the charism with a visit to the Generalate of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, along with a reflection on Salesian holiness at the headquarters of the General Postulation of the Causes of Saints of the Salesian Family.
An Integrated Vision of the Mission
Friday, 24 April, focused on the relationship between the Salesian Family and the various sectors of the Salesian mission—Youth Ministry, Formation, Missions, and Social Communication—offering an integrated vision of the charism. There was also a reflection on Salesian consecrated secularity. After visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Castro Pretorio, participants had the much-anticipated meeting with the Rector Major, Father and Center of Unity of the Salesian Family.
From Reflection to Action
Saturday, 25 April, took on a more operational and project-oriented dimension. Through meetings with world leaders of groups such as the Past Pupils of Don Bosco and the Association of Salesian Cooperators, participants engaged with the realities of their own territories. The focus was on animating the Salesian Family within the provinces, the role of the Delegate in relation to the Provincial and his Council, processes of animation, and concrete projects and initiatives.
Conclusion of the Course
The course will conclude on Sunday, 26 April, with final evaluations by the Secretariat for the Salesian Family and a community Eucharistic celebration, serving as a moment of synthesis and renewed commitment following this week of formation and communion.
