The Mass will begin at 12:30 (UTC+2) on Sunday 29 September 2024, and will be celebrated, as per tradition, in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Valdocco in Turin – the same place where on 11 November 1875 Don Bosco himself addressed his greeting and missionary recommendations to the first ones departing, led by Fr John Cagliero. This was the beginning of a missionary impulse that has never ceased for the Salesian Congregation, but rather, after bringing the charism of Don Bosco to Argentine Patagonia and from there to all of the Americas, then spread to all the other continents Next year, in 2025, it will be celebrated as is fitting for its 150th anniversary.
This year 27 Salesians will receive the Missionary Cross – most of them still in initial formation (19); the rest are priests (5), brothers (2), and a deacon. Also sent will be some Daughters of Mary Help of Christians from the 147th FMA missionary expedition and various lay volunteers from the Community of the Mission of Don Bosco (CMB), a private association of the faithful belonging to the Salesian Family since 2010, as its 28th group.
All of them will join the thousands of other consecrated and lay people who throughout history have witnessed the Gospel and spread the charism of Don Bosco throughout the world.
Thinking of the many interested parties around the world who will not be able to be physically present, the live broadcast of the Mass has been scheduled, accessible to all on the ANS YouTube channel.
