The 29th General Chapter (GC29) dedicated much of Tuesday’s session to Commission work, with several significant developments. A particularly complex and somewhat unexpected discussion arose regarding the priesthood requirement to be Rectors, Provincial Superiors, or the Rector Major. This was prompted by a Vatican rescript inviting religious congregations to consider appointing non-ordained lay consecrated members to governance roles. By the end of the day, a general direction had emerged—though not yet a final decision—on the possibility of allowing coadjutors (Salesian lay brothers) to assume roles as community Directors, Provincial Superiors, or even the Rector Major.

This issue calls for careful study, listening, and a dialogue between tradition and the future. It is not simply a debate over differing ideas but rather a shared journey toward a responsible and prophetic response.

During the session, the members cast votes to resolve key issues related to the structure of the next General Council and the reorganization of two Regions. The focus shifted to the so-called “third block” of topics, which began to take shape through precise thematic discussions.

The Central Commission carefully reviewed each proposal for deliberation. The Assembly decided that even proposals presenting radically opposing solutions should proceed in parallel while merging the related proposals into a single, comprehensive resolution. The members decided to postpone some decisions to future sessions, particularly those that do not require amendments to the Salesian Constitutions, as the Chapter must prioritize matters that will (or will not) be submitted for Vatican approval.

The Presidents or Rapporteurs of the six Commissions presented their reports in the Assembly, clarifying the content and objectives of their respective proposals. They also transparently indicated the level of support or opposition within their groups, ensuring that the deliberation process remains open and not falsely suggest unanimous consensus while ignoring minority positions.

Another night of reflection and another day of dialogue will be necessary to grasp the implications of any decision entirely—so that when the time comes to vote, the members can do so with complete awareness and responsibility.

Courtesy: SDB.ORG:

(ANS – Turin) – The work session of the 29th General Chapter (GC29) opened on March 12 with clarifications from the General Secretariat, which had to organize and synthesize 15 proposed resolutions concerning Core Theme 3.

“All of them navigate the fine line between the desire for renewal and the prudence of continuity,” noted the Secretariat. It also sought to assign appropriate voting weights, depending on whether a motion leaned more toward one approach or the other. In fact, constitutional changes require a two-thirds majority, while resolutions that maintain the current state of affairs can be approved by a simple majority of half plus one.

The resolutions submitted to the Chapter members were further refined and reduced to three for this session. The decisions made by GC29, based on the votes cast, focus on internal coordination among the Sectors of the General Council while keeping the composition of its members unchanged.

A particularly challenging discussion arose regarding proposals 8, 9, and 10, which explore the possibility of allowing Salesian coadjutors to take on leadership and governance roles at the levels of Rectors, Provincials, and even the Rector Major. In previous reports, the differing positions of the Commissions on this issue had already been noted. On Wednesday, March 12, the Assembly once again addressed the topic, with numerous speakers—each in a spirit of fraternity—highlighting the pros and cons of each possibility.

However, the prevailing sentiment remains the need to respect the outgoing Rector Major, Fr. Ángel Fernández Artime’s invitation to balance historical continuity with a forward-looking vision. In light of this, the Rector Major Emeritus, Fr. Pascual Chávez, who has been following the proceedings daily, was invited to briefly present how past Rector Majors, from the Second Vatican Council to the present, have understood their role.

All participants in the discussion referenced the origins of the Congregation to support their arguments, whether in favor of or against the motion inspired by the papal rescript. Yet, as was noted, each person interprets Don Bosco’s choices through their own sensitivity and lived experience of the Salesian charism.

A parallel but related discussion is also expected to arise soon concerning the responsibilities of lay (non-consecrated) individuals, who already collaborate extensively with Salesians worldwide. Additionally, it was pointed out that the Congregation’s unique identity within the Church does not exempt it from participating in the Church’s universal journey. Therefore, Pope Francis’ call to be prophetic should be heeded today, just as Don Bosco responded to the exhortations of Pope Pius IX in his time.

As President Fr. Stefano Martoglio emphasized, it remains essential to continue praying, discerning individually and collectively, and working toward a mature formulation of guidelines for the new General Council regarding the involvement of consecrated lay members at all levels of the Congregation.

From this perspective, a proposal originally considered “off-topic” may prove relevant to the discussion. Fr. Joan Lluis Playà Morera, representative of the Salesian Family, presented a motion regarding the voting rights of the Rector Major’s Delegate for the Salesian Family.

(ANS – Turin) – On Thursday, March 13, the participants of the 29th General Chapter (CG29) were engaged in two fundamental tasks: listening and expression. On the one hand, they devoted patient attention to the reports of the six Commissions, which drafted a detailed text on the topics of Core Theme 1; on the other hand, they reviewed the progress made so far, allowing everyone to recognize themselves in the process through the approval of minutes and deliberations.

To this commitment was added the need to intensify the exchange of ideas, even during informal moments, to clarify their own thoughts and better understand those of others. The Chapter, in fact, can be compared to a large workshop, where the three “production lines” (i.e., the core themes) intertwine while maintaining their own specificity in terms of content and weight. This requires the capitulars to demonstrate considerable mental flexibility and resilience: they must keep the “technical designs” and the “pieces” to be assembled distinct, without losing sight of the unified and coherent vision that will transform these reflections into the “finished product.”

A Strengthened Vision for the General Council

A central aspect of the day’s work was the consolidation of the vision of the General Council, ensuring that it adequately represents the Sectors and Regions. The goal of closer coordination was outlined, aimed at more recognizable and unified action, along with enhancing the planning capacity of this body.

At the same time, the essential traits to be recognized in confreres called to roles of responsibility, both globally and within the provinces, were reaffirmed. These confirmations were enriched with important nuances, in line with the directions that CG29 is charting for the next six-year period.

Centrality of Christ and Fidelity to the Vocation

The Commissions and their rapporteurs presented texts on two key topics: the centrality of Christ and the care of vocations, and listening, interpretation, and choices for the lives of Salesians. These reflections offered a frank and in-depth assessment of the spiritual, psychological, and organizational state of Salesian communities.

There was no hesitation in highlighting personal and structural limitations, and the convergence of observations emerging from different groups attests to the credibility and, at times, the severity of the analyses. The objective is clear: today’s Salesian must reaffirm fidelity to his vocation, moving from ideals and abstractions to inner authenticity and practical concreteness.

This means reexamining the methods and practices of community life, which must be envisioned as families capable of listening to and understanding the difficulties of each confrere and together addressing the inevitable recurring crises. Salesians, immersed in the contemporary world, are influenced by it and constantly questioned, often even “provoked,” by its challenges.

The set of documents produced so far, now an integral part of CG29’s legacy, allows for redefining the direction of the path to be taken. This path must authentically serve the human and Christian growth of every confrere, fostering lifelong formation in a climate of authenticity and joy.

On the horizon, the image of the oratory emerges as a paradigm of a fraternal and welcoming relationship. A place where every person can be listened to and supported, where the creativity necessary to respond to the needs of the heart and available resources can be developed. The oratory, in fact, represents a model capable of fostering youth gatherings and education, evangelical witness to the poor, and the construction of peace.

The 29th General Chapter continues its work with determination, striving to translate these reflections into concrete guidelines for the future of the Salesian mission. The challenges are great, but so is also the hope of building more authentic communities, faithful to their calling, and capable of responding coherently to the needs of our time.

(ANS – Turin) – March 13 at the 29th General Chapter (CG29), currently taking place at Valdocco, in Turin will be remembered as a milestone in the history of the Salesian Congregation. The Chapter expressed a favorable opinion, giving the possibility to the Rector Major and his Council to make use of the exemption granted by the Holy Father. Subsequently, a resolution was approved that will allow, ad experimentum, the assignment of the role of the Rector of a Salesian community to a lay brother, without it being necessary for them to be an ordained priest.

This exception, which applies to the Rector Major and his newly elected General Council, represents a significant step toward greater appreciation of the vocational complementarity between Salesian priests and Salesian brothers. The resolution, adopted by the Chapter members, was accompanied by intense debate and open, fraternal dialogue. We gathered the impressions of three Salesian brothers present in Valdocco, who shared their reflections on this important development.

The Voices of the Brothers: A New Opportunity for Service to the Community

Albert-Sébastien Ramadan, originally from Chad and currently in Tunisia, was invited as an observer and contributed to the debate with an intervention in the assembly:

“After yesterday’s vote, which gives Salesian brothers the opportunity, as an experiment, to serve as directors of a local community, I feel satisfied. There was debate on this topic to consider the pros and cons. I felt that my intervention at CG29 made a difference and brought something additional. Even when I spoke in our commission, many people changed their point of view.

The Holy Spirit ensured that there was a perspective that satisfied both sides. For now, it is already an open door; this is a step forward. Everything God has done is good: I am convinced that it was the Spirit acting. He will act and guide us according to God’s will.”

Van Luan Bui, from Vietnam, is also an observer at CG29. In his country, Salesian brothers represent a significant part of the community:

“I am happy with everything that has been decided because we are focusing on our responsibility toward the community, our mission, and the young. We listened to the will of the Father and took the time to learn how to engage in dialogue about it. Now our communication is open, and we have found a way to work together.

In Vietnam, there is a large presence of brothers, more than 70 members: a number that reflects the quality of the work we do and the spirit of community that unites us.”

Lucas Mario Mautino, a delegate from Northern Argentina, shared a thought that recalls the figure of Artemide Zatti, an Argentine brother recently canonized:

“I think it is also a beautiful sign of the times that the non-ordained, on some occasions, can be called to serve in leadership in the style of Jesus. I see this new option we are taking with great hope, especially for the service of the young.

Don Bosco envisioned us as a single vocation, living in fraternal complementarity, valuing one another. To understand the Salesian priest and the Salesian brother, we must consider them together: this is the direction to follow. We also have Artemide Zatti as a model, and it is wonderful to look to him in this moment. For us, he is a very important figure who teaches us to evangelize and educate through testimony and the way we live.”

A Courageous Step Toward the Future

The position taken at CG29 represents a significant turning point and a sign of the times for the Salesian Congregation. It not only opens new perspectives of service and leadership for Salesian brothers but also highlights the value of vocational complementarity within communities.

In the history of the Salesian Family, this position aligns with Don Bosco’s spirit, who always considered vocation as a unique reality, enriched by the diversity of charisms. Looking to the future, CG29 has chosen to embrace a more inclusive vision that strengthens the Salesian mission in service of young people and local communities.

With the contribution of all members, priests and brothers alike, the Chapter continues its journey with determination, confirming its fidelity to God’s call and the Salesian charism, always attentive to the signs of the times.

(ANS – Turin) – During the 29th General Chapter (GC29), taking place in Valdocco, a historic recommendation was made to the Rector Major and the General Council to be elected: to allow, ad experimentum, the assignment of the role of the Rector of the Community also to the lay consecrated brothers. This decision marks not only an important moment for the Salesian Congregation but also a significant step for the entire Church.

To better understand the importance of this change, we share the comments of the Economer General, Br Jean Paul Muller, who described this position as a “moment of change” and a “renewed appreciation of the brothers.”

A Moment of Change and New Opportunities

“The discussion we had in the Chapter showed us that there is a moment of change and a renewed appreciation of the brothers,” said Br Muller. “On the one hand, these confreres have made significant progress: they follow academic paths, and their way of living in the Congregation has changed; on the other hand, they have started to take on new responsibilities, finding themselves truly on the front line.”

This position of the GC29 has its roots in the Rescript signed by Pope Francis in 2022, which authorized non-priest religious to hold positions of governance within communities. However, Br Muller expressed a small regret for the time lost in not experimenting with this possibility earlier: “I regret that we did not practice it back then because there would have been an opportunity to ‘test’ it. Appointing a brother as a Rector would have been a great experience to discuss in this Chapter. Now we have to wait and initiate a six-year experiment.”

An Immediate but Limited Impact

When asked about the immediate impact of the decision, Br Muller responded realistically but also with hope: “Not many brothers will be called upon because their number is low. But I am sure that wherever they are appointed, this will be a great sign. A positive dynamic will develop in those communities and provinces, and eventually throughout the Congregation.”

Another relevant aspect touched upon by the Economer General concerns future vocations: “I hope this decision will have a good influence on vocations. We must prepare ourselves: from today, brothers must be trained as we already train priests, so that they can take on responsibilities and represent Don Bosco wherever they find themselves.”

A Positive Innovation for the Entire Congregation

Regarding the value of this decision for the integrity of the Congregation, Br Muller added: “I believe so. I was one of those who said to leave things as they are; I didn’t feel involved in planning changes. But I have seen the development of the Salesians in recent years, and that of the Church: today, all those who declare themselves Catholic feel this wind of change.”

The decision made at GC29, therefore, is not just an organizational choice but a sign of the times, a step toward a Church and a Congregation increasingly capable of valuing the vocation of each member, according to Don Bosco’s charism.

A Look Toward the Future

With the launch of the six-year experiment, GC29 has opened a new path for Salesian brothers, offering them opportunities for leadership and increasing responsibility. This signal is not just a recognition of their past contributions but a call to look to the future, with trust and hope, toward new forms of mission and service in the Church and among young people.

As General Chapter 29 reaches its halfway mark, the members are on a reflective journey, discussing Core Theme 2: Sharing Spirituality and Mission in the Educative-Pastoral Community (EPC).

This reflective journey set the stage for Monday, March 17, a day entirely dedicated to Theme 2:
– Sharing spirituality and mission within the Educational and Pastoral Community
– Educating and evangelizing
– Exploring new expressions of the Salesian charism
All within a context increasingly involving greater co-responsibility from laypeople engaged in the Salesian mission.

The guidelines for the work of the Chapter’s six Commissions emphasize concrete action concerning past work:
– Completing the reflections of GC28 on a shared mission
– Promoting spiritual and apostolic life
– Collaborating with laypeople to ensure financial sustainability for Salesian presences, without ever excluding the poor

New models of presence and newer expressions of the Salesian charism must be sought to foster true communion with young people, including in the areas of integral ecology and digital culture.

The weekend of March 15-16 presented the Chapter members with a dual challenge: first, to take stock of the journey now at its halfway point, giving the necessary momentum for the weeks ahead; second, to open a broader vision beyond the Chapter itself in light of the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian Missionary Expedition (1875-2025).

Fr. Pascual Chávez, Rector Major Emeritus, initiated the session on Saturday with a profound reflection on the themes engaging the participants. He highlighted the continuity between the General Chapters that followed the Second Vatican Council, emphasizing the Salesians of Don Bosco’s ongoing journey between faithfulness to God and responding to the needs of young people. “Today, the Salesian is called to reaffirm the centrality of the mission, as a witness and bearer of God’s love, especially for the poorest and most abandoned,” said the Rector Major Emeritus. “This mission is lived in community, in co-responsibility with the laity, giving life to a new pastoral subject,” as indicated by GC24.

The Chapter is not merely an organizational plan but a movement of the Spirit. To fully grasp its significance, the meditation on Matthew 18:20 [“Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst”] offered by Fr. Eunan McDonnell, Provincial of Ireland, was particularly enlightening. “It is a presence within each individual and among those gathered. It is an entity that joins the group. Jesus is ready to give us His time,” said Fr McDonnell. The community, therefore, is more than just a group of youth educators; it is a shared spiritual journey.

The trip to Genoa: a missionary reflection

A journey to Genoa, including a stop at the port where Don Bosco—visibly moved—bid farewell to the first ten Salesians departing for the “New World,” provided a historical excursion and a strong inspiration to reconsider the missionary dynamic blessed by the founder. Sent initially to assist Italian migrants in Buenos Aires in the late 19th century—offering both spiritual and material care—the young and courageous Sons of Don Bosco, led by Fr. Giovanni Cagliero, shaped the dream of reaching the legendary Patagonia. Today, too, Salesians are called to embrace new challenges with openness and adaptability while remaining faithful to their charism.

Courtesy: ANS-Turin

General Chapter 29 (GC29) on March 18 focused on Core Theme 2, which deals with implementing the Salesian mission directed towards young people. The day allowed participants to engage with diverse realities from their contexts while maintaining fraternal harmony, even when differences arose.

During discussions, it was highlighted that the Sons of Don Bosco operate in various cultural and religious contexts—some welcoming and tolerant, others requiring necessary adaptations due to their minority status. The fact that Salesian presences serve not only Catholics prompted reflections on remaining faithful to the Salesian Identity while addressing the needs of diverse communities.

Additionally, Salesians worldwide are increasingly affected by significant climate changes, experiencing natural disasters such as floods, extreme rainfall, droughts, and desertification, which impact both the people they serve and their communities. The theme of Laudato Sì remains central to promoting environmental awareness and action among young people.

Another pressing concern at GC29 is the growing number of wars spreading like a domino effect. Instead of being deterred by casualties, wounded civilians, forced migrations, and broken families, governments and military forces seem emboldened to plan further conflicts. Salesians find a space for analysis and proactive response to these global challenges within their Educative-Pastoral Communities, collaborating with laypeople—both volunteers and employees—to carry out their mission with commitment and prudence.

On Tuesday, March 18, GC29 also tasked members of the Africa-Madagascar Region with developing a proposal for restructuring into two new regions based on the provinces involved. The proposal will be presented later to the Chapter members for broader discussion.

In the evening, the Chapter members gathered for Vespers on the eve of the Feast of St. Joseph.

A 12-page draft document has been produced, providing a global overview of the Congregation’s current state and specific proposals for strengthening its missionary capacity among young people. As a working document, it is still open to corrections and improvements. The Editorial Committee, represented by its nine members, encouraged Chapter members to submit specific suggestions for refinement.  

The analysis highlights how Salesians today live in societies marked by acceleration, efficiency-driven culture, and consumerism, often leading to individualism. To counter these challenges, the Salesian community must re-centre itself on the Eucharist, recognizing it as:
• The core of the Salesian community,
• A daily return to the deeper meaning of service,
• The most potent safeguard against loss of commitment and fidelity.

With an optimistic vision, the draft reaffirms the fundamental purpose and mission of the Congregation.
Alongside the sacraments, prayer and lectio divina are seen as essential for:
• Deepening awareness of one’s vocation,
• Offering a critical, prophetic, and consistent interpretation of how to live out this vocation in today’s world.

Fraternity, Mission, and Mutual Support
The document emphasizes the need for a renewed commitment to mutual charity. Thus, we should support and encourage one another in the shared mission. This mission demands a simple and coherent lifestyle, which strengthens the Salesian community’s spiritual and apostolic energy.

Don Bosco was well aware of human limitations, the challenges of relationships, and the weaknesses of young people in his oratories. Then, as now, it is essential to invoke the Holy Spirit, asking Him to shape hearts today just as He shaped the heart of Don Bosco.

This spiritual renewal will strengthen fraternal life within Salesian communities, ensuring that members truly care for one another. The Salesian vocation, formed through years of study and formation, must be continually nourished and sustained.

As the day concluded, the assembly listened to and discussed the reports from the six Commissions, focusing on two key topics:
1. The creation of two new Regions in Africa.
2. Fr. Joan Lluis Playà’s proposal regarding the role of the Central Delegate for the Salesian Family within the General Chapter.
Finally, Fr. Pier Fausto Frisoli presented legal matters to be studied further in the coming week.

The Solemnity of Saint Joseph was celebrated during the 29th General Chapter. The participants turned to the patron of the Congregation, seeking his guidance and intercession for the successful outcome of the ongoing assembly in Valdocco.

Courtesy: ANS-Turin

The General Chapter members spent time refining the document that will summarize the key themes of Core Topic 1: Animation and Care of the True Life of Each Salesian. The representatives of the six Commissions presented their proposed modifications, each beginning by expressing appreciation for the synthesis work carried out by the Drafting Commission.

The refinement of the first draft of the propositions—considering both the scope and the most effective style—became a process of listening and meditation aimed at identifying the key points to be emphasized in the final document.

The courtyards of Valdocco were filled with small groups engaged in fraternal dialogue while others gathered around tables for discussions. Many also spent personal moments of prayer in the Basilica, the Pinardi Chapel, and the Church of St. Francis de Sales, all in view of determining the best way to express the insights developed in the various commissions. This text will serve as a guide for the Congregation’s next steps.

Inspiration from the past for the journey toward holiness

In the Goodnight talk, Fr. Pierluigi Cameroni, Postulator General for the Causes of Saints for the Salesian Congregation, emphasized the importance of drawing upon the testimony of those who have gone before us—the canonized Saints, the Blessed, the Servants of God, and even the ‘masters’ encountered along one’s personal formation journey.

In the lives of individuals, experiences, ideas, desires, and expectations come together in harmony. A fulfilled life pleases the Father and is recognized by the People of God as a model of living out the Beatitudes proclaimed by Jesus, said Fr Cameroni. “Our confreres who have fully lived, or continue to live, the evangelical project of the Constitutions serve as both an inspiration and an aid on our journey toward holiness,” Fr. Cameroni reminded. This testimony of holiness is realized in the Salesian mission: “From Don Bosco to the present day, we have witnessed a tradition of holiness that deserves attention, as it embodies the very charism that originated with him. This charism has been expressed in various vocations and life forms.” 

Courtesy: ANS-Turin

March 21 marks the beginning of spring in the northern hemisphere and autumn in the southern hemisphere. At the 29th General Chapter (GC29), held in Valdocco, the day’s work began with clearly defining the geographical boundaries of two new Regions created from the division of the current “Africa-Madagascar” Region. The new Regions will be named “East and South Africa” and “Central and West Africa.” This restructuring led to further reflections, such as the minimum number of confreres required to sustain a Salesian house. 

Every aspect of Salesian life is studied through the lens of ‘inculturation,’ meaning its ability to adapt to current conditions and the traditions of different Regions and territories. Chapter members are called to support and guide the various expressions of the Salesian charism, mainly as they are realized in local community activities. This process begins with the basic community, where confreres live and work together in a house.

Provinces and Central Relations

The Provinces were a major focus, as strengthening their operational capacity and fostering cooperation—both among themselves and with the central leadership—is essential. The discussion also examined the role and functionality of the ‘Curatoria,’ key centers for forming new Salesians. These centers are envisioned as collaborative spaces shared by different Provinces.

Another key topic was the relationship with the Rector Major and the Councillors. This relationship is primarily realized through visits, both extraordinary and general. These visits are vital tools for maintaining the unity of the Congregation and promoting circular communication between the works spread across the world and the central leadership.

Several proposals were discussed, some of which will be transformed into motions to be submitted to the Chapter. A significant focus was placed on clarifying the visits’ objectives, timelines, and methods, with particular attention to tools for evaluating their effectiveness. The goal is to strengthen authentic face-to-face exchanges between central representatives and those directly involved in various activities.

One essential theme that emerged was the need to increase organizational efforts within individual Provinces. This would help prepare and foster authentic “synodality”—a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration. Ongoing reflections are focused on ensuring that visits lead to concrete and binding outcomes that influence daily activities.

Roles and Functions: Toward Greater Clarity

The Chapter also addressed constitutional matters, focusing on the roles of Sector Councillors, Regional Councillors, Provincials, and Vicars. The aim is to make these roles more explicit and standardized across different levels. The proposals outlined in the draft resolutions will undergo further review to achieve this.

Particular attention was given to the composition of Provincial Councils, aiming to define better the roles of those responsible for Youth Ministry and Formation.

Intense Collaboration for the Best Result

Significant work remains to finalize the documents that the Chapter will sign. With a strong spirit of collaboration, this collective effort is expected to result in the best possible outcome.

Courtesy: ANS-Turin