NEWS PHOTOS
Rome, Italy – November 2024 – On November 8, the course for Spanish, Portuguese, and French-speaking Provincial Secretaries, coordinated by Fr. Guido Garino, Secretary of the General Council, concluded at the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS). During the course, secretaries from around thirty Salesian jurisdictions learned essential content for their roles and engaged in discussions with several members of the Salesian Headquarters in Rome, including Fr. Luis Botasso from the General Economer’s office for financial matters, Fr. Pier Fausto Frisoli on legal topics, and Salesian Brother Marco Bay, Director of the Central Salesian and Photographic Archive, for cataloging and statistics. Participants also had an opportunity to discuss the fundamental role of the Provincial Secretary with Fr. Stefano Martoglio, Vicar of the Rector Major. Today, delegates also enjoyed a visit to St. Peter's Basilica, appreciating the beauty of Rome.
Vitória, Brazil – November 2024 – At the end of October, Salesian social works in Vitória (ES) received over a ton of food. Donations were collected during the “Salesian Interclass Games” organized by the Salesian Jardim Camburi school, with primary students from grades 2 to 4. The donations will be organized into more than 100 food baskets to be distributed to families of children attending the Festive Oratories and Cesam-ES apprentices in vulnerable situations. After the food delivery, Fernanda Aparecida Chisté de Andrade, the pastoral coordinator of Salesian social works in Vitória, visited participating classes to talk about the Salesian social work in Vitória and its history of social action. “It’s very important for these children to understand how sharing helps others. Thanks to the children and families' initiative, we’re able to provide food for those who lack it. It’s transformative, and it’s great for them to learn this from a young age,” Fernanda explained. “We want to thank the families for their support, the volunteers who helped with transportation, and especially the children, who participated so wonderfully,” said the coordinator. The initiative also received support from Christian Family Movement (MFC) volunteers who helped transport the donations to the Salesian Fort São João location, the headquarters for Salesian social action in Vitória.
Dimapur, India – November 2024 – The annual youth gathering from various oratories, parishes, and ecclesial units in Nagaland and Assam took place on November 3 at Salesian College in Dimapur, centered around the theme "Eucharist: The Way to Heaven" inspired by Blessed Carlo Acutis. With approximately 500 participants, the event aimed to deepen faith, strengthen community ties, and celebrate cultural heritage. Fr. Elow Samuel, Rector of Salesian College, presided over the inaugural Holy Mass, encouraging the youth to live purposeful, faith-rooted lives and strive for holiness like Blessed Carlo Acutis. Salesians led interactive sessions and team-building activities to promote unity, teamwork, and leadership. In the afternoon, Fr. Deli David, SDB, Vice-Provincial of Dimapur (IND), attended as the chief guest, blessing and encouraging the youth. The program included traditional dances, songs, and performances in Nagamese and other regional languages, celebrating cultural heritage and diversity. In his speech, Fr. Deli urged the youth to use the digital age to proclaim Christ, following Blessed Carlo Acutis’ example. Organizers expressed their heartfelt thanks to volunteers, clergy, and community leaders for making the day memorable.
Betafo, Madagascar – November 2024 – The 5th National Congress of the Salesian Cooperators Association (SSCC) of the Salesian Vice-Province "Mary Immaculate" of Madagascar (MDG) took place from October 31 to November 3 at the Salesian Community’s Spiritual Center in Betafo. Starting with a Eucharistic celebration, the congress served as a moment of fraternal and spiritual sharing. Fr. Eric Franck Randriamiandrinirinarivo, Delegate of the MDG Vice-Province for the Salesian Cooperators Association, delivered a lecture on the identity and source of Salesian Cooperators and their belonging to the Salesian Family. Reports from each local center and the SSCC Provincial Council were presented. A new SSCC Provincial Council for the next three years was also elected.