One of the biggest challenges of the Rector Major's visit to these two great provinces was to meet his confreres and encourage them in the consecrated life and in following the Lord in the manner of Don Bosco. He reminded them that "we have a fine congregation, - this is not conceit or boastfulness," but at the same time he indicated the need to be mature and happy Salesians to convey to young people the joy of following Jesus Christ and to evangelize without complexes. He invited them to be "more open towards the neediest young people."
Another recurring theme was young people: "We are a community for young people and among young people,” he emphasized in clear and concrete fashion. “We are for those who need us most, and according to Don Bosco they are the least, those most at risk."
He pointed out some big goals for the young people: "it is not enough to comply or to be mediocre,” the Rector Major told the young. “You have amazing capabilities that allow you to dream. You have a big heart and deep generosity." He also pointed out: "We cannot be holy, if we leave God aside. We cannot understand Dominic Savio without God, without Jesus who accompanied him."
The Rector Major concluded his visit to Salesian Spain in Barcelona where he had started on 28 April. Even after a busy schedule of visits to the different works all over the country, he kept up his strength, kindness, closeness and empathy with everyone right to the end.
He left a final message that remained engraved in everyone's heart: "Consider life as a gift: it is the best guarantee of happiness, whatever your dream."
Further information can be found on the blog https://visitarectormayor.wordpress.com and fore more photos visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/140626487@N08/sets/
