The SMV crosses stand as a unifying symbol exclusively for Salesian Missionary Volunteers, epitomizing their unwavering devotion to service and solidarity. Defined by the Congregation, Salesian Missionary Volunteering represents a voluntary commitment undertaken by young individuals within Salesian communities, propelled by faith and inspired by the teachings and spirituality of Don Bosco.
There was a process to ensure that the cross represents all the important facets of SMV. The SMV Advisory Team held a design competition to involve the Salesian Provinces and Fr. Jeff Miller SDB, from Australia, won the contest and his project has been the basis for the actual cross, following the suggestions of the Councillors for Youth Ministry and Missions to harmonize in a simple way the most important features of SMV.
To ensure the significance of the cross, specific criteria have been established for those eligible to receive it:
1. Volunteers with Salesian Formation: Individuals who have undergone comprehensive training and formation centered on Salesian spirituality and pedagogy.
2. Integration within Salesian Communities: Volunteers who will reside and work within Salesian communities actively engaged in the educative and pastoral projects championed by the Salesians.
3. Commitment to Continuous Service: Volunteers who pledge themselves to an ongoing and uninterrupted service period, offering their time voluntarily and without remuneration.
4. Motivated by Faith: Volunteers who are grounded in faith, propelled by Don Bosco's mission ethos, and animated by the spirit of the Salesian charism.
The SMV Advisory Team has streamlined the process for obtaining the SMV crosses, allowing coordinators to request crosses from the Missions and Youth Ministry Sectors. These crosses, tangible embodiments of the shared commitment of Salesian Missionary Volunteers, will be housed at the Missions Sector office in Rome, located at the Generalate.
Introducing the Salesian Missionary Volunteer Cross underscores the Salesian Congregation's steadfast commitment to nurturing unity and solidarity among its volunteers. By wearing this emblem, volunteers embody Don Bosco's legacy of selfless service and unwavering devotion to the youth.
For further inquiries regarding the SMV Cross, interested parties are encouraged to contact the SMV Advisory Board at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
In embracing the SMV Cross, volunteers not only adorn themselves with a physical symbol but also carry within them the profound ethos of Don Bosco's mission, perpetuating his legacy of love, service, and empowerment among the youth.
