The Eucharistic celebration marked the start of a year of commemorative activities aimed at reflecting on the Salesian legacy in the comprehensive education of children, teenagers and young people, especially those in vulnerable situations. With the charism of St John Bosco and the spirituality of joy, commitment and closeness, the Salesians have left an indelible mark on Dominican society.
In his homily, Fr José Pastor Ramírez, Provincial of the Antilles, emphasised the importance of living the Salesian mission inspired by the Good Shepherd: ‘Today, too, we are remembering and bowing our heads before so many Salesians and lay people who have been good shepherds in these 90 years; and, likewise, asking forgiveness for those who have not been so. The shepherd who resembles Jesus only thinks of his sheep, he does not ‘run away’ from problems, he does not ‘abandon’ them. On the contrary, he is close to them, he defends them, he goes out of his way for them, he ‘laid down his life’ seeking their good’.
The Salesian presence in the Dominican Republic began in 1934, when the first missionaries arrived to establish works that would offer quality education and a space of hope for the youth. Since then, the Salesians have impacted thousands of people through schools, parishes, oratories, youth centres and social works.
Today, the Salesian Family is made up of various branches including the Salesians of Don Bosco, the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, the Salesian Cooperators and numerous committed lay people, who work together for the good of young people and their communities.
Celebrating 90 years of Salesian presence is a milestone that deserves to be recognised and celebrated for its invaluable contribution to the country, with the transformation of more than one hundred thousand people each year in its evangelising, educational and formative work in the construction of a better nation.
The Salesians in the Antilles invite the whole community to join in the different activities that will take place throughout the year. It will be an opportunity to thank God for the fruits harvested in these nine decades and to renew the commitment to the new generations.
