During the homily, Fr. Fabio shared several key messages inspired by the Word of God and the journey undertaken during the General Chapter. His reflections touched on profound themes related to the Salesian mission, the importance of education, and the challenge of transmitting the Christian message in a hyper-connected and complex world.
Reflections of the Rector Major
At the heart of his homily, Fr. Fabio invited the chapter members to reflect on the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and anchored to solid points of reference. He emphasized that Jesus continues to be a light in contemporary society, often flooded with disordered and contradictory messages.
He spoke of a generation of young people immersed in the media-driven world but deeply in need of authenticity and stable values. Fr. Fabio highlighted how, through the Salesian educational proposal, especially inspired by Article 2 of the Salesian Constitutions, young people can be offered not only quality education but also a sense of community that helps them grow in faith and holiness.
He reiterated that the Salesian mission is not just an educational service but also a path to personal and communal sanctification.
Recalling some experiences and testimonies that emerged during the Chapter, Fr. Fabio underscored how Salesian work represents a concrete response to the challenges of our time. He mentioned the fundamental role of Salesian works worldwide, which provide care and support to young people in vulnerable situations, and spoke of the freshness of the Salesian educational message, which can engage in dialogue with contemporary cultures and realities.
Fr. Fabio also emphasized the importance of resilience and courage in carrying out the Salesian mission, despite the difficulties and resistance that may arise. He reminded the Salesians that they are called to be bearers of God’s message, living an authentic and concrete witness even in contexts marked by suffering and marginalization.
He concluded his homily by reaffirming that the Salesian witness must be rooted in love and solidarity, offering young people not only educational solutions but also hope and concrete support.
A Symbolic Gesture of Prayer and Entrustment
At the end of the celebration, in a particularly significant gesture, the Rector Major, accompanied by the members of the General Council and a group of young people, went in procession to Don Bosco’s tomb.
In an atmosphere of recollection and prayer, they entrusted the members of the General Chapter, the fruits of their work, the Salesian Congregation, and the entire Salesian Family to Don Bosco. This moment of prayer at the founder’s tomb represented an act of entrustment and hope, a symbolic moment, and an invitation to continue the journey with faith, passion, and dedication to the Salesian mission.
At the end of the Mass, the Rector Major personally handed each chapter member a memento of the 29th General Chapter, as a sign of gratitude and as a keepsake of this important moment of discernment.
