Los Angeles, California – January 2025 – More than 230 educators from the Salesian Network of Schools in the Province of the Western United States gathered on 6 January for a day of reflection, learning and community. The event took place simultaneously in northern and southern California and, despite the geographical distance, both groups were united in their common Salesian mission and commitment to the education of young people. The meeting was organised to focus on the theme of Strenna 2025 – “Anchored in hope, pilgrims with young people” – and to explore how Salesian educators are called to accompany young people on their journey of faith, education and personal growth. In the north, at Camp St Francis in Aptos, the theme of the Strenna was reflected on and the ways in which educators can actively embody the Salesian spirit of accompaniment in their daily work. In the south, Anthony Rodriguez, a former student of the Don Bosco Technical Institute, spoke of the power of personal testimony and the role of educators in being models of faith and hope for their students. The day ended with Mass, celebrated by Fr Mel Trinidad, Superior of the St Andrew Province of the Western United States (SUO), and Fr Fabian Cardenas, Provincial Delegate for Youth Ministry.

Rajahmahendravaram, India – January 2025 – In recent days, at the Ekalavya Children's Home, a consultation programme has been carried out to make Rajahmahendravaram a city suitable for migrants. The event, which took place in the presence of Fr Francis Bosco, Coordinator of Pastoral Care for Migrants in South Asia, was organised thanks to the collaboration between PARA, Women and Child-Friendly Rajahmundry and the Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M) organisation. Fr Francis Bosco, addressing the participants, spoke of the challenges that migrant workers face at the national level and stressed the role of voluntary organisations in bringing these problems to the attention of the government. Debates were also held on the launch of awareness-raising programmes for migrant workers and the idea of posting useful phone numbers for these people in very busy places, such as train stations and bus stops, was suggested. Measures already taken to guarantee the well-being of workers were highlighted and the commitment to collaborate with voluntary organisations to solve any problem of migrant workers was reiterated.

Shillong, India – January 2025 – On 5 January 2025, Deacon Shanborlin Khardewsaw was ordained priest at the parish of Mount Carmel in Rambrai by Bishop Willbert Marwein, Bishop of Nongstoin. About 7000 people from all walks of life participated in the ceremony, coming from various regions, along with 35 priests. This event marked a significant milestone as Salesian Shanborlin Khardewsaw became the first priest of Rambrai in many years, bringing great joy and pride to the people of Rambrai and the entire Catholic community. In fact, his path as a young aspiring priest is a source of inspiration for many young people.