News written by: ANS – Turin

The gathering at the Salesian Mother House at Valdocco witnessed the official opening of the 29th General Chapter (CG29) on February 16. Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, the Chapter Moderator, did the honours of declaring the Chapter open. A gathering of 230 provincials and delegates of the Society of St. Francis de Sales, thus, commenced meaningfully, united in their mission to nurture Don Bosco’s charism, in the theme: “Passionate about Jesus Christ, dedicated to the young.”

Father Stefano Martoglio, President of the Chapter, expressed with an emotional tone the profound responsibility entrusted to the assembly: “to redesign the Congregation at all levels.” He emphasized that religious and consecrated life today is characterized by a specific challenge: ‘an authentic prophecy.’ “We must allow ourselves to be shaken, not remain complacent, and provide personal and institutional responses,” Father Martoglio urged. “This is the path of the entire Church, guided by Pope Francis,” he said.

Cardinal Roberto Repole, Archbishop of Turin, during the homily at the Eucharistic celebration in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, affirmed: “It is not about addressing an organizational task, but about embodying the mission of the Church, to bring the gaze of Christ to the world and humanity, calling injustices by their name. Only He can overcome injustice and oppression.”

The Mayor of Turin, Stefano Lo Russo, bringing the city’s greetings, expressed his wish, saying, “I trust that the reflections which will occupy your time may bring forth important answers—not only for the Salesian mission but also for all of us engaged in public service.”

Sister Simona Brambilla, Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life (the same office of Cardinal Artime), shared the encouragement inspired by the experience of the disciples’ journey to Emmaus. “The road takes us far from Jerusalem, from the painful and burdensome experience of the Cross. But after the encounter with Jesus, we see the return, even in the night, but without fear, toward the community and life,” she said.

Sister Chiara Cazzuola, Superior General of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), said, “The future of the charism is in the hands of each one of us, but especially in your hands, as the worldwide Chapter assembly of the Salesians. This is an event of grace and synodality. It has the potential to radiate strength into the daily lives of younger generations and secure them a brighter future.”

Antonio Boccia, World Coordinator of the Salesian Co-operators, gave the Chapter participants a clear and direct invitation. He said, “Strengthen your interiority, discover opportunities for improvement: it is your duty to preserve the flame of Don Bosco’s charism, deeply rooted in the spiritual community that unites the entire Salesian Family.”