Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, the Chapter's Moderator, explained: "Having completed the phase of shared understanding of the state of the Congregation, the need has emerged to modify the Instrumentum Laboris. For this reason, we are now formulating the proposals that have arisen from the Chapter itself." The Commissions are now tasked with identifying and proposing the five most important priorities in response to the challenges identified. These priorities will serve as the foundation for the final document, which will be presented to the new Rector Major and the General Council.
A Call to Unity and Inculturation
In his address, Fr. Chávez highlighted Article 146 of the Salesian Constitutions as a guiding principle for faithfully living the Gospel and following the Holy Spirit in the footsteps of Don Bosco. He emphasized that unity is built through fraternal encounter, which values diversity among individuals. "The General Chapter is the most beautiful experience of this dynamic and the most comprehensive moment of formation we have," he stated with enthusiasm.
He also shared a key reflection for the future of the Congregation: the shift from merely inculturating the Salesian mission in different contexts to embracing the interculturality of the project as it is today worldwide.
Working in groups, whether small or large, to express a common will requires a clear method. When invoking the presence of the Holy Spirit, this approach must be even more methodical, overcoming individual protagonism and fostering true mutual listening.
The Synodal Method in the General Chapter
The Catholic Church has embraced the synodal method, which is characterized not only by the Pope’s authoritative convocation but also by a well-defined working process. This method was presented to the Chapter members in a dedicated session, featuring a joint address by Fr. Andrea Bozzolo, Rector Magnificus of the Salesian Pontifical University in Rome, and Fr. Eunan McDonnell, Provincial of Ireland.
Participants in GC29 are deepening their understanding of the synodal method through resources available on a dedicated website. The testimonies of the following three Salesians who had successfully implemented it in their local leadership experiences were also shared:
Fr. Luis Fernando Gutiérrez Cuesta, Provincial of Spain–St. James the Greater (SSM); Fr. Daniel Federspiel, Provincial of France-Southern Belgium (FRB); Fr. Giampaolo Roma, Provincial of Southern Italy (IME).
The work of the Commissions and the adoption of the synodal method reflect GC29's commitment to discerning current challenges and finding shared, intercultural responses. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Salesian Congregation is preparing to renew its dedication to its educational and pastoral mission, remaining faithful to Don Bosco's charism.
