Madrid, Spain – March 2025 – The Salesian House of Spirituality in El Plantío (Madrid) hosted the third training meeting last weekend for short-term Salesian Missionary Volunteers (SMV). The 49 participants in the program, coming from various environments of the “St. James the Elder” Salesian Province, found out the destinations where they will serve during the upcoming summer. They will be sent to 22 Salesian missions across 15 countries in America and Africa, traveling in pairs or small groups to support one another throughout the experience. The weekend gathering was a mix of formation, prayer, and joyful moments. It also served as a space to share concerns and uncertainties about the journey ahead. The meeting was led by José Carlos Sobejano, coordinator of the Mission Animation and Volunteer group, along with Alejandro Vázquez, Head of Volunteering at Misiones Salesianas, the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid. During the session, participants received various training modules, including:

• Salesian Youth Ministry principles;
• Health and safety guidelines;
• Introduction to the local projects where they’ll be volunteering.

Now that they know their destinations, the volunteers will begin several weeks of preparation—logistically and by deepening their knowledge of the local culture and mission setting. They will also take part in online courses and begin connecting with the local Salesian leaders who will welcome them. The final gathering before departure is scheduled for May 30 to June 1 in Astudillo (Palencia). During that meeting, the volunteers will receive their Missionary Cross, and will be joyfully sent off in a special ceremony surrounded by family and friends.