This exception, which applies to the Rector Major and his newly elected General Council, represents a significant step toward greater appreciation of the vocational complementarity between Salesian priests and Salesian brothers. The resolution, adopted by the Chapter members, was accompanied by intense debate and open, fraternal dialogue. We gathered the impressions of three Salesian brothers present in Valdocco, who shared their reflections on this important development.
The Voices of the Brothers: A New Opportunity for Service to the Community
Albert-Sébastien Ramadan, originally from Chad and currently in Tunisia, was invited as an observer and contributed to the debate with an intervention in the assembly:
“After yesterday’s vote, which gives Salesian brothers the opportunity, as an experiment, to serve as directors of a local community, I feel satisfied. There was debate on this topic to consider the pros and cons. I felt that my intervention at CG29 made a difference and brought something additional. Even when I spoke in our commission, many people changed their point of view.
The Holy Spirit ensured that there was a perspective that satisfied both sides. For now, it is already an open door; this is a step forward. Everything God has done is good: I am convinced that it was the Spirit acting. He will act and guide us according to God’s will.”
Van Luan Bui, from Vietnam, is also an observer at CG29. In his country, Salesian brothers represent a significant part of the community:
“I am happy with everything that has been decided because we are focusing on our responsibility toward the community, our mission, and the young. We listened to the will of the Father and took the time to learn how to engage in dialogue about it. Now our communication is open, and we have found a way to work together.
In Vietnam, there is a large presence of brothers, more than 70 members: a number that reflects the quality of the work we do and the spirit of community that unites us.”
Lucas Mario Mautino, a delegate from Northern Argentina, shared a thought that recalls the figure of Artemide Zatti, an Argentine brother recently canonized:
“I think it is also a beautiful sign of the times that the non-ordained, on some occasions, can be called to serve in leadership in the style of Jesus. I see this new option we are taking with great hope, especially for the service of the young.
Don Bosco envisioned us as a single vocation, living in fraternal complementarity, valuing one another. To understand the Salesian priest and the Salesian brother, we must consider them together: this is the direction to follow. We also have Artemide Zatti as a model, and it is wonderful to look to him in this moment. For us, he is a very important figure who teaches us to evangelize and educate through testimony and the way we live.”
A Courageous Step Toward the Future
The position taken at CG29 represents a significant turning point and a sign of the times for the Salesian Congregation. It not only opens new perspectives of service and leadership for Salesian brothers but also highlights the value of vocational complementarity within communities.
In the history of the Salesian Family, this position aligns with Don Bosco’s spirit, who always considered vocation as a unique reality, enriched by the diversity of charisms. Looking to the future, CG29 has chosen to embrace a more inclusive vision that strengthens the Salesian mission in service of young people and local communities.
With the contribution of all members, priests and brothers alike, the Chapter continues its journey with determination, confirming its fidelity to God’s call and the Salesian charism, always attentive to the signs of the times.
