The General Visit began with a solemn Eucharist presided over by Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major, with the homily of Fr Francesco Cereda, his Vicar. "The Team Visit we are starting today invites us to live the experience of unity in diversity in the charism of Don Bosco," said Fr Cereda.
For starters, the Rector Major referred to the situation of the General Directorate: he explained at length the situation and the reasons why the Salesians shall permanently leave the headquarters of the General House (Rome - La Pisana). This was followed by a moment of dialogue wherein he answered questions from the meeting's attendants.
Subsequently, the proceedings of the assembly itself began with the Rector Major, several members of the General Council and 97 Salesians, including Provincials and members of the Provincial Councils of the Provinces involved, all gathered in the same meeting room.
Fr Stefano Martoglio, Councilor for the Mediterranean Region, then provided some statistical data to illustrate the current situation: he underlined the reality of the region, and especially the Mediterranean Zone - which has 10 Salesian Provinces, with Salesians whose average age is over 70 – one of the first challenges, in fact, was to discuss the quality of religious and community life, the requalifying of formation, and the need for greater visibility of the consecrated life.
In the afternoon, after a period for reflection in groups, Fr Cereda intervened and talked about the redesign of the Salesian presence.
To conclude, Fr Á.F. Artime expressed his thoughts at the Salesian "Good Night."
