Fr Fabio Attard, Rector Major and the newly appointed General Council Members.
The Salesian Congregation has chosen its new leader, and for the first time in history, the decision fell on someone who was not present at the General Chapter. In a moment filled with emotion, Maltese priest Fr. Fabio Attard was informed via phone call that he had been elected as the XI Successor of Don Bosco, the founder of the Salesians. His voice, trembling with gratitude and tears, echoed through the assembly hall as he accepted the role, acknowledging both the trust of his fellow Salesians and the divine guidance he believes led him to this moment.
Fr. Attard’s election took place during the 29th General Chapter (CG29) of the Salesians, currently being held in Turin, Italy. The Chapter, which brings together 227 representatives from 135 countries where the Salesians operate, has been underway since February 16 and will conclude in Rome on April 12. As per Salesian tradition, the Rector Major is not just the leader of the congregation but also its spiritual father, responsible for guiding and unifying the global Salesian Family for the next six years.
Fr. Fabio Attard, known for his deep commitment to youth ministry and formation, previously served as the General Councillor for Youth Ministry from 2008 to 2020. His extensive experience in the field of education and pastoral care, coupled with his ability to connect with young people and educators alike, made him a prominent figure within the congregation. His election signals a new chapter for the Salesians, one that continues Don Bosco’s vision while addressing contemporary challenges facing young people worldwide.
The announcement of his election was met with a mixture of surprise and joy, as delegates at the General Chapter embraced the unconventional but inspired choice. Many see in Fr. Attard a leader who embodies the Salesian spirit of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the mission of accompanying young people, especially the most vulnerable.
Following his election, Fr. Attard addressed the congregation via video call, expressing his humility and readiness to serve. “This mission is greater than any one of us, but with God’s grace and the love of our Salesian Family, we will continue to walk in the footsteps of Don Bosco,” he said.
As the Salesians look to the future under the leadership of their new Rector Major, there is a renewed sense of hope and commitment to the charism of St. John Bosco. Fr. Attard’s leadership promises to build on the rich legacy of the congregation while adapting to the evolving needs of young people in today’s world.
The Names and Designations of the new council members are as follows:
1. Fr. Fabio Attard – Rector Major
2. Fr. Stefano Martoglio – Vicar of the Rector Major
3. Fr. Rafael Bejarano – General Councilor for Youth Ministry
4. Fr. Silvio Roggia – General Councilor for Formation
5. Fr. Jorge Mario – General Councillor for Missions
6. Fr. Fidel Maria Orendain – General Councilor for Social Communication
7. Fr. Gabriel Stawowy – Economer General
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