Eucharist: the Greatest Expression of God’s Love
In his homily, Fr. Fabio emphasized the profound meaning of the Eucharist, describing it as the greatest expression of God’s love. He invited the assembly to live the celebration as a moment of thanksgiving, recalling the beauty and importance of this event for the Congregation.
The readings proclaimed during the Mass highlighted the journey of God’s people—a journey of transformation and growth, leading from one condition to another, always toward something greater and better.
"The Lord invites us to listen, to follow, and to choose freely," said Fr. Fabio, "not out of fear or obligation, but from an authentic and profound desire to walk with Him." He then stressed the importance of personal freedom and responsibility in responding to God’s call.
Listening and the Maturation of Faith
Fr. Fabio reflected on the importance of listening, describing it as the foundation of faith. He explained that true listening is not passive but active and transformative, capable of helping people grow in maturity and wisdom.
"Listening to the Word of God," he observed, "makes us authentic witnesses, capable of living and communicating the Gospel in every aspect of life."
He then issued a particular appeal to educators and pastors present, urging them to examine their ability to listen and bear witness. "Our task is not only to teach," he emphasized, "but to inspire through our lives. Our witness must go beyond words, communicating concrete signs of intelligence, prophecy, and love that speak to the hearts of young people."
Don Bosco: A Model of Pastoral Charity
The new Rector Major then drew attention to the figure of Don Bosco, who remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the Salesian Family. He described Don Bosco as a man of pastoral charity, characterized by wisdom, prudence, and a deep love for young people.
"Don Bosco’s project was not propagandistic, but evangelical," said Fr. Fabio, "and for this reason, it was credible."
He also highlighted Don Bosco’s ability to create connections among believers, non-believers, and people of other faiths, always with the aim of benefiting young people. Fr. Fabio then exhorted the Salesian Family to follow Don Bosco’s example, living their vocation with the same spirit of pastoral charity, wisdom, and professionalism.
Memory and the Danger of Losing Meaning
A central theme of the homily was the value of memory in the Salesian mission. Fr. Fabio warned against the risk of losing the memory of God while working for Him, cautioning that this could lead to a loss of meaning and authenticity.
"When we forget the memory of God’s love," he said, "we risk becoming superficial and disconnected from the mission we are called to fulfill."
He then emphasized that the memory of God’s love is what sustains and energizes the mission, especially in difficult moments.
Jesus Christ: the Fulfillment of Love and the Law
Fr. Fabio reminded the congregation that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the law and the definitive expression of God’s love. "He is the way, the truth, and the life," he said, inviting everyone to rediscover the joy and depth of communion with Christ.
He then spoke of the importance of living a mature, joyful, and conscious adherence to the law of love, which is the heart of the Salesian mission. This, he observed, is the essence of Don Bosco’s preventive system—not merely a technique but a spirituality inspired by the Gospel, capable of transforming lives through love.
The Preventive System: An Evangelical Vision
Reflecting on Don Bosco’s preventive system, Fr. Fabio described it as "our Gospel." He noted that it is not merely a method but a spirituality that combines faith, reason, and love to guide young people toward a life full of meaning and purpose.
"The preventive system," he said, "invites us to look forward with hope and love, helping young people discover their potential and their path in life."
Looking to the Future with Responsibility and Gratitude
Concluding his homily, Fr. Fabio expressed gratitude for the journey that brought him to this moment. "I see this as a gift and a responsibility," he stated. "It is a call to accompany young people and the Salesian Family on this journey toward the Promised Land, guided by Christ’s love."
He invited everyone to renew their commitment to the Salesian mission, urging them to live with faith, hope, and love. "With Jesus, in Jesus, and through Jesus," he said, "we can continue to walk together on this beautiful journey."
A Moment of Grace and Renewal
Fr. Fabio Attard’s first Mass as Rector Major was a moment of grace and renewal for the Salesian Family. He reminded everyone of the profound mission entrusted to the Salesians: to be living witnesses of God’s love, especially for young people, and to walk together in faith, hope, and charity.
At the end of the celebration, in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, there was a palpable sense of joy and renewed determination—a perfect beginning for Fr. Fabio’s ministry as the 11th Successor of Don Bosco.
