(ANS – Rome) – In Valdocco and Colle Don Bosco, where so much Salesian history and fidelity has passed, the Salesian Youth Synod studied a proposal for the entire Salesian world. This was done by 375 people, mostly young people belonging to 94 nationalities, boys and girls of an average age of 23, from many nations, with different cultures and languages, but all with the same faith and the same intense commitment to the work started by Don Bosco.
(ANS – Colle Don Bosco) - On August 16, 2024, the Salesian Family witnessed a momentous event as Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the 10th successor of Don Bosco, keeping in mind the decree and the stipulated time offered by the Holy See, resigned as Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, while his vicar Fr Stefano Martoglio took charge ad interim of the governance of the Salesian Congregation. The day, marked by the concluding mass of the weeklong Salesian Youth Synod, also held special significance as it was also the birthday of St. John Bosco himself. The holy mass was celebrated with profound solemnity and joy in Colle Don Bosco, the birthplace of the beloved saint.
(ANS - Colle Don Bosco) - In a deeply moving session at the Salesian Youth Synod, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major, engaged in an intimate and insightful dialogue with young delegates from around the world, offering wisdom and guidance rooted in his own life experiences. Six delegates, representing different regions of the world, joined Cardinal Ángel on stage, reading questions that had been thoughtfully selected in advance. The Cardinal’s responses were filled with wisdom, emphasizing the profound importance of inviting God into our lives to find true happiness.
(ANS - Colle Don Bosco) - The fifth day of the Salesian Youth Synod, commemorating the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary began with a profound Eucharistic celebration in the lower basilica of Colle Don Bosco, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major, presided over the Mass, which was concelebrated by numerous Salesians from around the world. Adding a special touch to the liturgy, participants from India sang hymns during the Mass, beautifully coinciding with India’s Independence Day.
Colle Don Bosco, Italy – August 2024 – On the fourth day of the Salesian Youth Synod, as the evening unfolded, the courtyard of Colle came alive with the enchanting performance of Circus Fuskabo, a renowned Salesian circus troupe from Slovenia. The show was a dazzling display of skill and artistry, featuring impressive juggling and breathtaking acrobatics that mesmerized the audience. The highlight of the evening was a poignant final act-a condensed retelling of one performer’s personal journey from Palestine to Slovenia. This moving narrative added a profound dimension to the night, reflecting the resilience and hope that embody the Salesian spirit.
The festivities continued with a creatively crafted “Good Night” in the courtyard, cantered around the six components of Salesian Youth Spirituality. Six delegates summarized each component, sharing their personal insights and experiences. The Slovenian circus performers enriched the reflections by dramatizing the challenges young people often face. In each scene, Don Bosco was depicted as a guiding presence, helping characters overcome difficulties and rediscover joy. The evening’s events beautifully captured the vibrant spirit of the Salesian community, blending artistic excellence with meaningful reflection. The performance by Circus Fuskabo and the imaginative ‘Good Night’ provided a memorable conclusion to a day filled with celebration, unity, and inspiration.
(ANS - Colle Don Bosco) – As the sun set on the fourth day of the Salesian Youth Synod, the courtyard of Colle transformed into a vibrant Fair Market. The evening brought together the young participants from around the world in a joyful exchange of culture, tradition and fellowship. The marketplace buzzed with excitement as delegates eagerly displayed and exchanged souvenirs from their home countries. Each continent was represented, with tables filled with a colourful array of traditional items, Salesian mementos and unique treasures that reflected diverse cultures. The air was filled with laughter and lively conversations as participants explored each other’s stalls, collecting mementos that represented the rich tapestry of the Salesian world.