The goal of the meeting is to discuss issues of common interest in the Region, including the preparation for the 29th General Chapter of the Salesians of Don Bosco which will take place in Valdocco from 16 February to 12 April 2025, on the theme "Passionate about Jesus Christ, dedicated to young people. Living our Salesian vocation faithfully and prophetically.”
The meeting also includes several occasions for meeting and formation.
In addition, the Directors and their respective teams from the Salesian Brothers Regional Centre (CRESCO) in Mexico, and the Salesian Ongoing Formation Centre for America (CSFPA) in Ecuador, will also be involved online to discuss the formation paths offered by the two continental bodies, share some news, and together examine the needs for the coming years.
As part of the meetings, an exchange is also planned with representatives of the Salesian America Social Network, the coordination network of Salesian works and social services that assist children and young people at high risk of social exclusion; and a discussion with Fr Miguel Ángel García Morcuende, World Councillor for Youth Ministry, who will explore the topic of Vocation Ministry and work with new vocations.
Finally, the programme also includes a meeting with Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati, SDB, Archbishop Emeritus of Santiago, who will hold a conference on the identity of consecrated Salesians in the Church.
"It is basically an opportunity for fraternity, useful and necessary to share their experience, the reality of the Provinces, the experience of each of them as Provincials. There are some who are finishing their work as Provincials and others who have just started. So it's a nice group," Fr Romero said.
The host Provincial for the meeting, Fr Nelson Moreno, added that "It is a joy for our country to host this gathering. It is, ultimately, a reflection on the General Chapter, on how we as a Region are able to project our mission. Each of our Provinces has already held its own Provincial Chapter, and now it is possible to cross-reference the information and see some of the proposals and challenges we are facing".
"There is a common dream, we have shared hopes in our Provinces, so I think this discussion is positive, because we learn from each other" concluded Fr Moreno.
