Bergamo, Italy – November 2024 – The Italian tour of the exhibition “Images of a Vanished World: Fr. Alberto De Agostini – Man, Nature, Art, Science” continues. He was an Italian Salesian priest, geographer, mountaineer, explorer, cartographer, photographer, ethnologist, writer, filmmaker and naturalist. Originally previewed at the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) in Rome during the International Study Conference on Fr. Alberto Maria De Agostini (1883-1960) in May 2023, the exhibition has since traveled to Turin, Padua, and Lecco. On November 5, it reached Bergamo, presented by curator Fr. Francesco Motto, SDB, at the CAI (Italian Alpine Club) venue “Palamonti” (Mountain Training Institute). It was inaugurated by CAI President Italo Valoti, with Dr. Emanuele Falchetti, Director of Orobie magazine, who covered the exhibition with a feature article in October. “No need to elaborate on Fr. De Agostini’s figure,” noted Fr. Motto, “as it has been previously presented.” However, he highlighted a recent video featuring Fr. De Agostini aired by the training ship “Amerigo Vespucci,” filmed in the Strait of Magellan during its global voyage. The exhibition will remain open until December 5, after which it will move to Treviglio and then return to Rome at the Italian Geographical Society headquarters in January 2025.

Rome, Italy – October 2024 – On October 26-27, the first meeting of the National Council of the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) Italy for the 2024-25 pastoral year was held at the Salesian Institute Gerini. Participants, including Youth Ministry Delegates, Councillors for Youth Ministry, and young people from the Council, discussed various topics. SYM Lombardy-Emilia shared insights on the Animator Training School and the revision process underway as part of the Territorial Secretariat, while the Triveneto region presented its “Paths of the Council,” working methods, and projects for the year. A newly printed regulation booklet was also distributed to all Council members, providing a useful tool for outlining SYM Italy’s objectives. Group discussions followed, focusing on concrete themes for the 25-26 pastoral proposal, which will emphasize faith as part of the ongoing three-year program. The next day, participants reflected on SYM Italy’s path, its current and future priorities, and ways to implement them practically, using the Salesian Youth Synod document as a starting point.

Nigeria – November 2024 – After nearly nine weeks, Fr. Gianni Rolandi concluded his Extraordinary Visit to the Salesian Province of Africa Nigeria Niger (ANN). During this period, Fr. Rolandi met with the Provincial Council, the Provincial Councillors, and Rectors of various Salesian Houses in the ANN Province. He visited 13 communities across Nigeria and began his journey with a visit to the Salesian community in Niamey, the capital of Niger, describing the visit as “demanding yet rewarding.” In an interview with "Art. 43 Media," ANN’s official platform, Fr. Rolandi reflected on his experiences, sharing the challenges and satisfactions of his journey. He commended the ongoing Salesian initiatives and highlighted the importance of the oratory-youth center model within ANN Province. Fr. Rolandi emphasized the importance of collaboration with laypeople and encouraged community members to embrace this aspect of Salesian spirituality and take on mission roles throughout the Province. The Extraordinary Visit inspired many within the Province, strengthening their dedication to the Salesian mission and energizing them for future commitments.

Link to the Interview with Art. 43 Media
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPL8f3Fx3iY