This initiative stemmed from the experience of some youth ministry team members who had led a retreat in Laredo, Texas. Inspired by the success of that event, the team sought to expand their outreach efforts to the province, especially in schools, as part of the school's annual evaluation. Notably, this visit coincided with the celebration of St. John Bosco, a central figure of the Salesian tradition. The novices who accompanied the team played a key role in promoting vocations and encouraging young people to explore service opportunities.

Throughout the week, students, teachers, and staff engaged in various activities to inspire and foster service and involvement. Each morning began with an uplifting "good morning" led by different department heads, setting the tone for the day. A special booth was also set up where students could interact with Salesian representatives and learn more about their mission and experiences. One of the key highlights was a school-wide assembly, during which representatives shared their personal vocation stories and talked about service.

The impact of these stories was evident in the students' responses. Many expressed newfound motivation to take action in their lives. "We learned that we can't just wait for things to happen. We have to be proactive and take initiative," shared one student. Additionally, some youth ministry team members visited the West Country Youth Club, further strengthening ties with the broader community.

Teachers also provided valuable feedback during the visit. Many admitted they had previously been unaware of the youth ministry team's role and were excited to learn more. Their enthusiasm reinforced the importance of fostering unity and a deeper connection to the Salesian mission across the entire school community and the province.

During the visit, the bishop also celebrated a Mass, providing a nice reflection about being a Salesian. The overarching theme, "We Are Salesian," emphasized service and active involvement, inspiring students and staff to recognize their role as an extraordinary institution.

The Salesian Family would like to thank Fr. Joe Nguyen, SDB, for his ongoing work with the school, the CYM Adrian Fulay, and the school administration for their support and coordination efforts. This article serves as a reflection on the visit and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Salesian mission, which continues to inspire and guide young people worldwide.

 Jc Montenegro, Ph.D

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