In the morning, Fr Á.F. Artime met with educators from the schools, social centers and Salesian universities, and before some 250 people he emphasized the importance of working together to change the world through education. "We have a shared mission among lay people, Salesians, and religious. And this is an incredible force."
He then highlighted the growing need for educators to strengthen their Salesian and Christian identity. "It does not mean that we all have a perfect life, without difficulties. But it means that educators in the Salesian Houses must transmit the best we have. We can transmit professional excellence, of course, but not only that. What distinguishes us is the Salesian style, the Preventive System, Salesian spirituality. We transmit values, not just content."
Fr Luis Otávio Botasso, Salesian School animator, also spoke on the role of the religious in the missions shared with laity: "We, religious, must guarantee to you, lay people, the identity of the Salesian charism. At all times, in all the works."
Then, during the Eucharistic celebration, the Rector Major spoke about the vocation of the educator and his great responsibility: "Don Bosco is here in spirit, but not in person. He cannot see, but our gaze on a young person can be Don Bosco's. Our embrace can be Don Bosco's. His word of support for a young person who needs it is Don Bosco's word. Each of us is the mediation of God; we are his instruments, just as Don Bosco was."
Subsequently, the Rector Major met with the sick Salesians of the Liceo Maria Ausiliatrice Cristiani; he was then accompanied to see the conditions of the city's outskirts where the Salesian Social Works operate - through 7 centers, it serves thousands of children, young people and adults every month. The Rector Major, welcomed by the children at the social center, then visited 2 other centers, located in different neighborhoods, and ended the day meeting with educators and parishioners.
