At the Shrine of Guadalupe, the Rector Major called for "a special prayer for our brothers who in various parts of the world are facing moments of pain and anguish, as in Mexico itself, in Syria on account of the long war, and especially the beloved Venezuelan people."
On the morning of Friday 12 May, Fr Á.F. Artime met with the Salesians, urging them to "return to the experience of the Oratory of Valdocco". He emphasized "the importance of the family as the central place where one learns and acquires faith."
At the work of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, he met with the Novices of Mexico and Haiti, in a climate of great enthusiasm. He then met the young people of the Salesian Youth Movement, who put on a festive show for him. On his part, the Rector Major advised them: "If you get confused in your dreams, you are making the worst mistake you could make". He reminded them that giving one’s life is something worthwhile. "When a young person gives himself, giving his time and himself for others, he feels happy. To give oneself is to experience true happiness." He also stressed that life without a dream is not life. It is good to "dream God’s dream for you". "Keep dreaming big, dream about holiness," he said in conclusion.
The Rector Major concluded his visit with Fr Timothy Ploch, Councillor for the Inter-America Region; Fr Hugo Orozco, Provincial of Mexico-Guadalajara; Fr Gabino Hernández Paleta, Provincial of Mexico-Mexico; and the Rector Major’s secretary, Fr Horacio López.
"I am very happy to be in Mexico for the first time," said the Rector Major. Please God it will not be my only visit.”
