Kigali, Rwanda – August 2024 – On 15 August 2024, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Fr Gabriel Ngendakuriyo was installed as the fourth Superior of the Africa Great Lakes Salesian Vice-Province (AGL), for the 2024-2030 six-year period. At the same Mass, Frédéric Murindangabo was installed as Vice-Provincial. The ceremony took place in the chapel of Mary Help of Christians in Gatenga, in the presence of Fr Camiel Swertvagher and numerous members of the Salesian Family. On behalf of the Rector Major, Fr Camiel Swertvagher thanked Fr Pierre-Célestin Ngoboka, former Superior, and his Council.

Colle Don Bosco, Italy – August 2024 – On the fourth day of the Salesian Youth Synod, as the evening unfolded, the courtyard of Colle came alive with the enchanting performance of Circus Fuskabo, a renowned Salesian circus troupe from Slovenia. The show was a dazzling display of skill and artistry, featuring impressive juggling and breathtaking acrobatics that mesmerized the audience. The highlight of the evening was a poignant final act-a condensed retelling of one performer’s personal journey from Palestine to Slovenia. This moving narrative added a profound dimension to the night, reflecting the resilience and hope that embody the Salesian spirit.

The festivities continued with a creatively crafted “Good Night” in the courtyard, cantered around the six components of Salesian Youth Spirituality. Six delegates summarized each component, sharing their personal insights and experiences. The Slovenian circus performers enriched the reflections by dramatizing the challenges young people often face. In each scene, Don Bosco was depicted as a guiding presence, helping characters overcome difficulties and rediscover joy. The evening’s events beautifully captured the vibrant spirit of the Salesian community, blending artistic excellence with meaningful reflection. The performance by Circus Fuskabo and the imaginative ‘Good Night’ provided a memorable conclusion to a day filled with celebration, unity, and inspiration.

Colle Don Bosco, Italy – August 2024 – The fourth day’s highlight at the Salesian Youth Synod was a profoundly inspiring presentation by Fr. Michael Pace on the three charismatic dreams of St. John Bosco, which have significantly shaped the Salesian mission. Fr. Michael brought to life Don Bosco's visionary experiences, starting with the first dream in 1824, where the seed of his life’s mission was planted. He then recounted the second dream in 1844, in which Mary revealed the future site for the basilica, and the third dream in 1886, envisioning his Salesians spreading their mission from Valparaiso to Peking.

Fr. Michael emphasized that these dreams were far more than mere visions; they were divine communications that guided Don Bosco's life and mission, with Mary consistently playing a central role. To enhance his presentation, Fr. Michael utilized the symbolically rich paintings of Spanish artist Javier Carabaño, which deeply resonated with the delegates and vividly illustrated the transformative power of Don Bosco’s dreams. Through his talk, Fr. Michael highlighted how a single dream can pave the way for many others, echoing Don Bosco’s journey from his childhood dream to becoming a priest, founding the Oratory of St. Francis de Sales, and establishing the Salesian Congregation. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own dreams, discerning how they might align with God's plans to unlock greater fulfilment and opportunities in their lives. The presentation served as a powerful reminder of the importance of dreams in guiding one's path and the profound impact they can have when aligned with divine purpose.