On January 17, 2025, the second day of the Days of Spirituality for the Salesian Family, members embarked on a spiritual pilgrimage as pilgrims of hope, traveling from the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians to the Cathedral of Turin, following in the footsteps of Don Bosco. The route traversed the streets and squares that Don Bosco frequented countless times, enriching the experience for all participants.
Divided into language groups, each cohort followed a designated path guided by knowledgeable leaders. This thematic approach deepened their understanding of Don Bosco's life and the holiness that Turin has contributed to the Church. The itineraries included: Oratory on the Move, Justice and Mercy, Carlo Gastini Route, FMA Route, Prayer, Pastoral Care and Prisons, Social Works of Hope, Social Saints of Hope, and Don Bosco Yesterday and the FMA Today.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, home to the revered Holy Shroud, served as the pilgrimage's final destination. Upon arrival, members of the Salesian Family gathered for a Eucharistic celebration led by Bishop Alessandro Giraudo, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Turin. In his homily, Bishop Giraudo emphasized how saints bear credible witness through their lives, showcasing the beauty of God’s love and mercy, particularly as exemplified by Saint John Bosco and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.
Following the Mass, Federica Baradello, a young woman from Turin, shared her testimony about the life, work, and inspiration of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. Federica honored the connection between Pier Giorgio Frassati and Don Bosco, emphasizing how both figures inspired her faith. She spoke passionately about how Frassati has become a beacon of hope in her life and for many young people in Turin. She highlighted Pier Giorgio's remarkable choices, such as his service to the poor, despite coming from a wealthy family. His commitment to social justice led him to engage directly with marginalized communities, illustrating his deep Christian faith. Even in personal struggles and his untimely death at 24, Pier Giorgio maintained a joyful spirit rooted in hope and charity. Baradello concluded with Pier Giorgio's belief that true living comes from faith, urging everyone to embrace their faith in pursuit of a meaningful life.
A pilgrimage offers an opportunity to encounter God in the very places where He has revealed Himself. Throughout this journey, the members of the Salesian Family found hope in their hearts, bringing their prayers and intentions to the Lord. They encountered Him in the sacred spaces of Turin, consecrated by saints, in the companions they walked alongside, and in the pilgrimage itself.
