Following this, in a session moderated by Fr. Francisco Chimento, coordinator of the Congress’ organizing team, presentations will be given by Fr. Marcelo Coronel and Dr. Blas Garzón Vera, from the Salesian Polytechnic University of Ecuador. Their talk, titled “Salesian Presence in Eastern Ecuador: Impact on Shuar and Achuar Culture (1893-2020),” will explore the Salesian Congregation’s role in eastern Ecuador from its arrival in 1893 to the present century, focusing on two case studies:
• The foundation and development of the "Sevilla Don Bosco" Institute in 1943, serving the Shuar people.
• The ongoing missionary work in Wasakentsa, founded in 1988, supporting the Achuar people.
• Exploring the Impact of Salesian Education
The research will reflect on the impact of the Salesian educational model on the communities it has served and influenced, particularly regarding cultural and identity transformations.
“It is worth emphasizing,” note the organizers, “that the missionary policies and actions carried out by the Salesians have been adapted over time, evolving in response to ecclesial, academic, political, and social contexts that have shaped these evangelization experiences.”
How to Participate
Those interested in attending the webinar must register using the form available here. A few days before the event, registered participants will receive the Zoom link to join.
? Date & Time: February 27, 2025
⏰ Start Time: 7:00 PM (Argentina Time, UTC-3)
?️ Language: Spanish
About the Salesian Missionary Congress of America
The Salesian Missionary Congress of America, “Interweaving Paths” (“Entrelazando Caminos”), seeks to merge the rich history of Salesian missions with critical reflections to foster more effective cultural evangelization in America.
This initiative is part of the 150th anniversary celebrations of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition (1875-2025) and is organized by:
• Salesian Polytechnic University (UPS) of Ecuador
• Salesian University (Unisal) of Argentina
Upcoming Congress in Argentina
The Salesian Missionary Congress of America will take place from Monday, May 19, to Thursday, May 22, 2025, at the "La Montonera" retreat center in Pilar, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina.
Certification for Participants
Those who attend all four preparatory webinars (on November 14, 2024; December 5, 2024; February 27, 2025; and March 27, 2025) will receive a certificate issued by UPS Ecuador and Unisal Argentina.
For more information, visit: www.entrelazandocaminos.org.
