In view of the seriousness of these crimes and of the scandal involved, the liturgy was an opportunity to ask for forgiveness from the victims and their families, by imploring forgiveness from them and from God, and by participating as the Salesian Family in this Year of Mercy, following the call of Pope Francis. In addition, the Salesians are committed to continue building a safe environment for children and young people, in a more just and more united country and Church.

One of the major gestures was performed by Fr Alberto Lorenzelli, Salesian Provincial of Chile, who prayed on his knees and asked for forgiveness in front of a cross carried by some young people in front of the altar. Subsequently, all the consecrated Salesians approached the altar and, looking at the young and the assembly of the faithful, prayed together:

God our Father,

You have called us to be signs and bearers of

your love for the young …

We humbly ask pardon

for those of us,

who have failed in this mission;

we express sorrow and shame

for the harm caused to the victims and their families,

for those who have lived in silence

and for those who have suffered and who are still suffering today.

Aware that this must not be repeated

We are committed to promoting

And putting into practice actions that ensure

Healthy and safe environments in our communities.

In his homily, the Provincial also stated: "It is really a source of pain, because as Sons of Don Bosco we cannot stop experiencing profound shock and consternation, shame and remorse, and in communion with the victims, fear and the sense of betrayal that they experienced with these sinful and criminal acts. " 

Source: Salesian Bulletin of Chile

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