The Congress featured ten topics of reflection presented by eleven speakers, including Salesian priests, Salesian brothers, a sister from the congregation of Saint-Paul de Chartres, and a Salesian Cooperator. The sessions had immense formative value, bringing intellectual, human, vocational, and spiritual enrichment to the participants. Debates - in groups or assemblies - following the papers helped to examine in depth the essential aspects of the identity of Salesian Brothers and to strengthen their pastoral and educational commitment.
In light of the exhortation of the 28th General Chapter to rediscover the charismatic identity of the Salesian Brothers and to serve the youth of the present time, several themes were explored. These included the vocation of the consecrated Brother in the Church, the historical journey of the Salesian Brothers, the two forms of Salesian vocation, and the importance of walking with Raphael and Tobias and cycling with Artemide Zatti. The inspiring figures of Artemide Zatti, Stephen Sandor, and Simon Srugi were presented as examples of life testimonies, pastoral zeal, and missionary commitment.
The Congress bolstered the participants' conviction about their value as "icons" of communion and the importance of synodality in the community, the Church, and the Congregation. They became increasingly convinced that their specific identity enables them to respond charismatically to the challenges facing young people today. Salesian Brothers aspire to become, for young people, guides who accompany them, care for them, educate them and lead them into the presence of God, following the example of Archangel Raphael.
Fortified by reflection and exchanges, Salesian Brothers are determined to develop their gifts and talents through quality formation, to put them at the service of the mission and the integral development of young people. They wish to make their charismatic identity more visible in their communities and in the Church, while strengthening their commitment to vocation ministry.
The Second Congress of Salesian Brothers in Africa and Madagascar was a significant step in their journey as consecrated Brothers. It consolidated their identity and mission to the youth, encouraging them to respond to the needs and challenges of our time in a charismatic way. The teachings and reflections of this congress will undoubtedly inspire their commitment to the youth, their community, and the Church in the years to come.
Gaetan Lwamba, SDB
