This second edition of the course brought together 47 people including Directors, Leaders and people in charge of educational units and Salesian social works and services committed to dialogue and reflection on the theme "Salesianising our outlook and dreaming of possibilities".
The programme of activities has made it possible to provoke or awaken reflections on the experiences as leaders of settings of the Salesian mission, as well as to add essential and characteristic elements of Salesian identity, based on Christian humanism and Don Bosco's preventive system.
Among the proposed objectives, the exploration of Salesian discernment and the importance of a common approach between transformative action in the different mission settings and the charism of Don Bosco should be highlighted.
Attentive to the network of activities and projects developed by the BBH Province, this meeting also addressed issues related to third sector legislation, financial planning and mental health, with the definition of effective strategies aimed at updating the Salesian identity in daily life.
In addition, all participants were also able to make two significant technical visits: to the Salesian Formation Centre for Documentation and Research and the Museum of Madness, both located in Barbacena.
"Taking part in the formation meeting for lay leaders was a great opportunity for learning, professional growth, immersion in the Salesian charism and exchange of experiences with leaders and managers of other Salesian works. The Province, in this way, shows that it takes care of and invests in forming those who guide its works and activities", said Fernanda Aparecida Chiste de Andrade - Coordinator of the Socio-educational Pastoral Care of the CESAM-ES centre.
According to Flávio Lúcio Silva, Administrative and Financial Manager of the Brasilia presence, "being involved in the meeting allowed me to enter even more into the Salesian charism, into the eyes of the Father and Teacher of the Youth... The more I know Don Bosco, the more my feeling of admiration grows and my belief in my responsibility as a Salesian layman committed to not letting this dream come to an end."
"Being able to interrupt our routine for a while and reflect on the life of Don Bosco is fundamental for continuing his mission and inspiring us to manage the team based on his values and his life example. In addition, being with our peers strengthens our work, as we exchange experiences, knowledge and live intense moments of joy and strengthening the bonds of friendship. Finally, the topics covered were very relevant. And the opportunity to run various formation sessions ourselves led us to study, design and further explore the topics addressed. Ultimately, let there be more formation!" said Leandro Malaquias, Pedagogical Director of the São José Institute in Resende.
