This process began with an in-depth discussion on the role of the Vicar, described in the Salesian Constitutions as the "first collaborator of the Rector Major." The discussion also considered recent developments and challenges faced by the Vicar. The Vicar serves as a kind of Provincial for Salesian houses directly under the Rector Major, including those in close proximity to the Holy See, such as the Salesian presence inside Vatican City, the Catacombs of St. Callistus, and the Pontifical Parish in Castel Gandolfo.
"His internal service fosters an authentic consecrated life, helping to reveal its profound beauty," Fr. Martoglio emphasized. He also pointed out that each Province should give greater consideration to the role of its Vicar, ensuring that their mission focuses on religious life and discipline. As a result, Article 168 of the Constitutions will need further clarification.
Presentations on the Congregation’s Global State
To provide a comprehensive picture of the Congregation worldwide, the following General Councillors shared reports:
- Fr. Ivo Coelho, General Councillor for Formation
- Fr. Miguel Ángel García Morcuende, General Councillor for Youth Ministry
- Fr. Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication
- Fr. Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for Missions
- Fr. Joan Lluís Playà, Central Delegate of the Rector Major for the Secretariat for the Salesian Family
Regional Reports
In the afternoon session, a detailed analysis of four Salesian Regions was presented:
- Africa-Madagascar – by Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, Regional Councillor and GC29 Moderator
- South Asia – by Fr. Biju Michael, Regional Councillor
- East Asia-Oceania – by Fr. Joseph Nguyen Thinh Phuoc, Regional Councillor
- South Cone of America – by Fr. Héctor Gabriel Romero, Regional Councillor
The remaining Regions will be addressed on Tuesday, February 25, and a summary of all interventions will be shared in future articles.
Key Insights and Challenges
From the global analysis of the Congregation, certain significant elements emerged, reflecting both areas of growth and ongoing challenges. Although the current six-year period was effectively shortened to five years, key trends have already been identified—some highlighting progress, while others demanding courageous corrections and changes. The Capitulars have already begun internalizing the need for broad, forward-thinking decisions, informed by preliminary discussions within their respective Provinces and the first days of the Chapter assembly.
However, perspectives on the present and future of the Congregation vary, depending on factors such as:
The "youthfulness" of the local Salesian mission The number of vocations Economic and political contexts, which are increasingly affected by recurring humanitarian crises
The Challenges Highlighted by Fr. Coelho
Fr. Ivo Coelho underscored the critical challenges ahead, emphasizing:
- The need to overcome a purely "functional" view of the Salesian vocation
- Joint formation with diocesan priests, which must avoid leading to a loss of Salesian identity
- Authentic implementation of the Preventive System, which requires well-trained formators for young Salesians
- The current condition of youth, as they face cultural shifts that challenge the foundations of their values
A Call for a New "Ratio"
Ultimately, the discussions pointed to the need for a new "Ratio" (guiding principles for formation), one that will help every Salesian respond daily to God’s call with renewed clarity and commitment.
