The great interest in this theme, in the year of the Bicentenary of this charismatic dream for the entire Salesian Family, was reflected in the participation of over a thousand participants, including Salesians, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, lay people and members of the Salesian Family from the Provinces of all America and beyond – connections from Europe and Africa were also reported. Everyone gathered to reflect on a dream that still invites us to dream, in the present and for the future.
Fr Manolo Pérez, Director of the CSFPA, greeted the participants at the beginning of the webinar and recalled that this virtual formation initiative was born in the context of the celebration in 2024 of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Centre. "I hope it is an experience that makes the heart of each of the participants vibrate" he said on the occasion.
Then, during his address, Fr Timossi began by indicating some elements that still urge us to dream, based on the Strenna of the Rector Major and Don Bosco's dream 200 years ago. "The first element to take into account is that when Don Bosco recorded the dream in writing, he thought more of the Salesians of the future, of those who would come, than of those who already existed in his time... And this is because essentially it is not a dream of Don Bosco, or for Don Bosco, but it is the dream of God and Mary for the poor and abandoned young people of all times".
Then, starting from a part of the dream text, he emphasised the presence of Jesus in the dream and the mission that he entrusts to Don Bosco. Another aspect of reflection was the absolute prohibition within the Salesian charism of all types of violence and aggression. An aspect that the Rector Major himself, in the Strenna for 2024, delves into, detailing various expressions of violence that must be avoided in today's times.
During the live presentation, participants could interact by submitting some of their comments or considerations. "Fr Timossi's reflection is very interesting and profound; it is clear that the meeting with young people is a space to accompany them, teach them and not leave them alone" shared Miguel Ramírez; "Thank you for your deep and thoughtful words and for teaching us that the love of God is the point of connection with young people" echoed Ana Espinoza; Andrea Montenegro, for his part, summarised the message of the webinar by writing: "Walking with young people, starting with listening to them deeply. Thank you Fr Luis for this gift"; while Lore Larco commented: "Thank you for always reminding us of the motivation we have and the work we still have to do with young people."
The video of the first webinar is available online through the Salesians of Ecuador Facebook page and YouTube channel.
The next two in-depth webinars on Don Bosco's Dream are scheduled on the same platforms for 20 March and 20 April at 6:00 pm (UTC-5).
Social Communication Office of the Province of Ecuador
Source: Salesianos.org.ec
