San Cataldo, Italy – March 2025 – Not everyone in San Cataldo had the opportunity to see and venerate the relic of Don Bosco, which arrived in the central Sicilian town for the centenary of the Salesian presence there. And so, once again, Don Bosco became a "pilgrim of hope," bringing comfort to those in difficult situations. The gates of the San Cataldo Prison also opened to welcome Don Bosco, whose message still echoes today: “If only someone had taken care of them!” Thanks to the efforts of long-time chaplain Fr. Enrico Schirru, a Mercedarian, and the full cooperation of Director Dr. Marilena Lo Faro and Commander Dr. Carlo Di Blasi, the relic was warmly received by the inmates, who entrusted it with their dreams and hopes. Likewise, the chapels and wards of the "Maddalena Raimondi" Hospital in San Cataldo and the "Sant’Elia" Hospital in Caltanissetta were filled with tear-streaked faces and hearts full of hope as people sought intercession for healing and the grace to follow God’s will. This profound experience also touched doctors, nurses, volunteers, and staff, leaving a lasting impression on many hearts and opening them to hope, as emphasized by the hospital chaplains, Father Francesco Falletta and Father Enzo Spoto.

Luciano Arcarese