Italy – GC29: Open Discussions, Always in Obedience to Young People and the Holy Spirit

11 March 2025

(ANS – Turin) – The guiding principle of the work being carried out by the participants of General Chapter 29 (GC29) in Valdocco has been "Obedient to reality in order to build for young people." But with a key distinction: "Obedient to the Spirit." This was reiterated at the start of the day by Fr. Stefano Martoglio, President of the assembly, which is tasked with assessing the state of the Salesian Congregation and remaining open to even profound changes if necessary. 

The assembly's discussions focused on hearing reports from the representatives of the six Commissions established to analyze the three thematic areas that were proposed. The structure of the future General Council and the configuration of the Regions were the subjects of deliberations, which were formally put to a vote by Monday, March 10. 

There were differing opinions on the extent of the changes to be made: from transforming two Sectors (Communication and Missions) into Secretariats directly under the Rector Major, to refining the roles and tools available to the current Sectors and Regions within the General Council. A general consensus emerged in favor of splitting the Africa-Madagascar Region and for including Croatia in the Mediterranean Region. 

Beyond the voting results—where all proposed deliberations were approved—what stood out was the reasoning behind each position. The President welcomed these perspectives as they contributed to a deeper understanding of the Congregation's structure for governance and animation. 

Many participants admitted they were not yet fully prepared to make decisions on organizational aspects, as they lacked sufficient insight into the mechanisms behind them. As a result, questions and requests for more time were encouraged, since, regardless of GC29’s official deadlines, every Salesian present would leave with a greater awareness of the vast and complex "system" in which they operate. 

Moreover, discussions in both the Commissions and the Assembly often touched on broader cultural and pastoral challenges faced by the Sectors and Regions, including: 

  • Formation and animation within Provinces in an international context;
  • The mission within a new framework of constant exchange between confreres;
  • The need to prevent structural inertia from slowing progress;
  • Commitment to following the Church’s call to be “outgoing”;
  • The evolving role of laypeople, who are increasingly present in leadership positions;
  • The evangelizing role of communication in an increasingly "distracted" society. 

Diverse opinions and intense debates will naturally persist. However, as Fr. Martoglio reaffirmed, “We are all experiencing a strong sense of responsibility and the high quality of the work being done, where everyone is engaged in everything.”

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

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