(ANS – Turin) – The week ahead represents a crucial moment for the 29th General Chapter (GC29), during which the capitulars will elect the 11th Successor of Don Bosco, along with the Vicar General and the General Councilors. It is a decisive week for the future of the Salesian Congregation, to be lived in an atmosphere of intense prayer, reflection, and discernment.

(ANS – Turin) – The fifth week of the 29th General Chapter (GC29) in Turin-Valdocco has been particularly intense. All three thematic areas under discussion have now reached the stage of analysis and proposal, requiring the Chapter members to shift their focus among multiple key issues.

Additionally, discussions included a proposal for an Article in the Regulations on Social Works, reviewed by the six Commissions, which will determine any necessary regulatory changes. Another significant moment was an update from Fr. Pier Fausto Frisoli, in his role as Procurator, regarding the status of ongoing processes related to cases of abuse.

Fr. Chávez’s Reflection on the Work Done

Over the past week and the upcoming one, dedicated to the election of those who will lead and guide the Congregation for the next six years, Fr. Pascual Chávez, Rector Major Emeritus, delivered a compelling summary on Saturday, March 22. Addressing the 220 Salesians gathered in Valdocco, he acknowledged that “the Holy Spirit, the true protagonist of this Salesian Pentecost, has guided us thus far and will continue to do so in the coming days.”

The Call for Renewal in Religious Life

As a former Rector Major, Fr. Chávez shared his reflections in a deeply fatherly tone, focusing on the spiritual journey of each Salesian. He pointed out that “these years of transformation have shaped a new form of religious life. We now have new wineskins, and little by little, new wine is being produced.”

However, he also recognized that the idea of “newness” can feel uncomfortable, particularly when it implies spiritual renewal, professional updating, and pedagogical qualification. This effort toward renewal is not unique to the Salesians, but is being embraced across Catholic religious congregations, as envisioned by Vatican II. He recalled:

“When the Superiors General decided to address the theme of the refoundation of religious life, they did so out of an awareness that the call for renewal is urgent.”

For the Sons of Don Bosco, this means engaging alongside others who live out different forms of spirituality. Since this renewal is rooted in their spiritual identity, it calls them to return to the origins of the Congregation and reclaim its unique mission.

The Perspective and Guiding Questions

Fr. Chávez then offered the assembly a clear direction for the future:

“The strength of religious life lies in its countercultural nature, in its opposition to complacency and limitless material growth without transcendence. Once again, the challenge is one of identity—not based on external elements like attire or structures, but on a deep experience of God that transforms our lives and turns them upside down. It is about building communities that live in a radically new way, offering alternative models to the dominant culture.”

This renewal of Salesian life is directly linked to an honest assessment of the realities within the societies where Salesian communities operate. His words resonated strongly with the Chapter members, prompting 19 interventions in the assembly, each offering personal insights in response to three key questions that will shape the coming days:

• What choices must we make?

• What priorities should we set?

• What is the profile of the leaders we should elect?

With these questions in mind and heart, the Chapter memebers now enter the decisive week of the elections for the General Council.

The Salesian Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati, joins the global Salesian family in rejoicing at the election of Don Fabio Attard SDB as the 11th Successor of Don Bosco. The momentous election took place during the 29th General Chapter currently being held at Valdocco, Turin, the cradle of the Salesian Congregation.

With hearts filled with gratitude, the Province of Guwahati congratulates Don Fabio Attard and thanks God for his appointment. We extend our best wishes as he assumes the immense responsibility of animation and leadership of the Salesian Congregation, carrying forward the legacy of St. John Bosco in service to young people worldwide.

Don Fabio Attard is no stranger to the Salesian world, having previously served as the General Councilor for Youth Ministry of the congregation. His deep experience, vision, and dedication to Salesian pedagogy make him well-equipped to guide the Salesian mission in today’s world. He was elected in the first ballot by the GC 29 members. Interesting, he was not a chapter member. The delegates of the 29GC will felicitate and congratulate him in the evening.

The Salesians of Guwahati, along with the wider Salesian family, invoke the blessings of Mary Help of Christians upon Don Fabio Attard as he embarks on this new journey of service and leadership.

Ad multos annos! (Source: ANS)

In a moment of great joy and fraternal solidarity, the Provincial, Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, along with the Regional of South Asia, Rev. Fr. Biju Michael, SDB, and the two province delegates, Rev. Fr. Joy Kachappilly, SDB, and Rev. Fr. Nicodim Aind, SDB, felicitated the newly appointed Rector Major of the Salesian Society, Rev. Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB in the evening of 25 March 2025. The felicitation took place in the Conference Hall during the ongoing General Chapter 29 in Rome.

As a token of appreciation, Rev Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal presented Fr. Fabio Attard with the traditional Assamese Phoolan Gamocha. Expressing his joy on the occasion, Fr. Kuricheal conveyed the unwavering support of the entire Guwahati Province to the new Rector Major. He assured Fr. Attard of their prayers and commitment to the mission of Don Bosco.

Following the felicitation, Fr. Fabio Attard shared a moment with the provincial delegation, engaging in a warm and fraternal exchange. The felicitation concluded with a commemorative photograph featuring the Rector Major, Fr Provincial, the Regional of South Asia, and the Guwahati Province representatives, marking the significance of the occasion.

In a 20-minute speech, Fr. Fabio, the newly elected Rector Major, outlined perspectives and clear priorities, offering thought-provoking challenges. Speaking in a warm and direct tone, he emphasized the importance of clarity in Salesian identity and the significance of the day’s event.

The Congregation as the Focus
“The most important subject today is not Fabio Attard, but the Salesian Congregation,” he began, explaining that “today, the Congregation has made a gesture that testifies not only to its vitality but also to the desire that this vitality continues through individuals chosen to serve for a period of time.”

He highlighted that those who serve the Congregation are not alone but are part of a greater dynamic: “where the Spirit of God is speaking… a human history that serves as a vessel for the power of a God who continues to create, redeem, and sanctify.”

For this reason, his first exhortation to his confreres was to “remain open to this story of salvation, which has its beginning and end in Jesus Christ,” starting with a sincere reflection on what it means to be a Salesian today. He urged them to truly embody the theme of the Chapter—”Passionate about Jesus Christ, Dedicated to the Young”—and to reflect on their personal attitudes and desires in advancing the Congregation and its mission.

“Today, as Salesians of Don Bosco,” he warned, “we are called to live our charism without falling into the trap of ‘pastoral photocopies.’ We recognize This danger intellectually, but transitioning from intellectual understanding to prophetic fidelity is not easy!”

From Passion for God to Passion for Humanity

Building on this foundation, Fr. Attard pushed the reflection further. If the starting point is being rooted in Christ and conscious of the Salesian charism, then, in this era—what Pope Francis has called “a change of epoch”—Salesians must carefully reconsider their educational service. “Are we benefactors, masters, suppliers… or are we servants?” he asked.

Drawing from his global experiences, Fr. Attard observed that young people today live in a single, interconnected village, and their fundamental questions are the same, whether in Vietnam, Brazil, Spain, India, or elsewhere. However, while their questions are shaped by this new era, their thirst for meaning remains timeless.

“The thirst is there—but do we recognize it?” he challenged. “If we are truly servants of the young, we must provide spaces, people, and opportunities where this thirst can be acknowledged, encountered, and—hopefully—quenched with a cup of water offered.”

This changing era should not be seen as an excuse or a problem but as an opportunity that must not be wasted. “Our passion is the measure of our dedication, our fidelity is the backbone of our prophecy—there is no alternative,” he stated emphatically. He also noted that, even from an external perspective, through media coverage, it was evident that the Chapter was genuinely listening to the Holy Spirit. However, the real challenge would be to translate this spirit, dynamic, and attitude into the daily work of the provinces.

The Salesians in War Zones

Finally, Fr. Attard dedicated a thought to the many Salesians serving in conflict zones, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Myanmar, Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. “These confreres need our spiritual closeness because they are there to bear witness—they are the martyrs of the new century,” he said.

He cited the example of Fr. Tom Uzhunnalil, the Salesian missionary in Yemen who was kidnapped for 557 days between 2017 and 2018: “a man of prayer, serenity…” like so many other Sons of Don Bosco who, in extremely challenging circumstances, “testify that, for Jesus, it is worth being a Don Bosco today for young people.”

A Journey to Be Taken Together

Fr. Attard concluded with a final reminder about the nature of service and a heartfelt request. He emphasized that “service must be lived credibly and visibly by the General Council first and foremost. We are there as an example of synodality, communion, fraternity, and fatherhood. We are there to serve—nothing more, nothing less.”

Finally, echoing Pope Francis, he asked for prayers.
“Pray for me and those you will elect to the General Council because we are a community—we are brothers.” 

Courtesy: ANS-Turin

In a significant development at the 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales, Fr. Stefano Martoglio SDB was re-elected as the Vicar of the Rector Major, confirming the role previously entrusted to him by the preceding General Chapter. The election took place at 10:45 a.m. and was met with a long and warm round of applause from the delegates gathered at the Teatro Grande of Valdocco, marking the joyous affirmation of his leadership.

As per the Salesian Constitutions, the Vicar is the first collaborator of the Rector Major in governing the Society, holding ordinary vicarious authority. In the absence or impediment of the Rector Major, the Vicar assumes responsibility for the leadership of the Society. Additionally, the Vicar is especially tasked with the care of religious life and discipline within the Salesian community.

The Salesian Province of Guwahati extends its heartfelt congratulations to Fr. Stefano Martoglio, reaffirming its support and prayers for his continued service in this vital role. The Province remains united in its commitment to the mission of the Society, under the guidance of Fr. Martoglio, as he embarks on another term of service to the Salesian Congregation.

Fr. Fabio Attard, the new Rector Major and 11th Successor of Don Bosco, presided over his first Mass at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Valdocco, Turin. It was a solemn and profoundly spiritual occasion marked by gratitude and reflection, during which the Salesian Family gathered to thank God for the Eucharist gift and meditate on the mission and vision of Don Bosco’s successor.

Eucharist: the Greatest Expression of God’s Love

In his homily, Fr. Fabio emphasized the profound meaning of the Eucharist, describing it as the greatest expression of God’s love. He invited the assembly to live the celebration as a moment of thanksgiving, recalling the beauty and importance of this event for the Congregation.

The readings proclaimed during the Mass highlighted the journey of God’s people—a journey of transformation and growth, leading from one condition to another, always toward something more significant and better.

“The Lord invites us to listen, follow, and choose freely,” said the Rector Major, “not out of fear or obligation, but from an authentic and profound desire to walk with Him.” He then stressed the importance of personal freedom and responsibility in responding to God’s call.

Listening and the Maturation of Faith

Fr. Fabio reflected on the importance of listening, describing it as the foundation of faith. He explained that authentic listening is not passive but active and transformative, capable of helping people grow in maturity and wisdom.

He observed that “Listening to the Word of God “makes us authentic witnesses, capable of living and communicating the Gospel in every aspect of life.

He then appealed to educators and pastors, urging them to examine their ability to listen and bear witness. “Our task is not only to teach,” he emphasized, “but to inspire through our lives. Our witness must go beyond words, communicating concrete signs of intelligence, prophecy, and love that speak to the hearts of young people.”

Don Bosco: A Model of Pastoral Charity

The new Rector Major then drew attention to Don Bosco, who remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the Salesian Family. He described Don Bosco as a man of pastoral charity, characterized by wisdom, prudence, and a deep love for young people. “Don Bosco’s project was not propagandistic, but evangelical,” said Fr. Fabio, “and for this reason, it was credible.”

He also highlighted Don Bosco’s ability to create connections among believers, non-believers, and people of other faiths, always intending to benefit young people. Fr. Fabio exhorted the Salesian Family to follow Don Bosco’s example, living their vocation with the same spirit of pastoral charity, wisdom, and professionalism.

Memory and the Danger of Losing Meaning

A central theme of the homily was the value of memory in the Salesian mission. Fr. Fabio warned against the risk of losing the memory of God while working for Him, cautioning that this could lead to a loss of meaning and authenticity. “When we forget the memory of God’s love,” he said, “we risk becoming superficial and disconnected from the mission we are called to fulfill.” He then emphasized that the memory of God’s love sustains and energizes the mission, especially in difficult moments.

Jesus Christ: the Fulfillment of Love and the Law

Fr. Fabio reminded the Congregation that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the law and the definitive expression of God’s love. “He is the way, the truth, and the life,” he said, inviting everyone to rediscover the joy and depth of communion with Christ. Fr. Fabio then spoke of the importance of living a mature, joyful, and conscious adherence to the law of love, which is the heart of the Salesian mission. This, he observed, is the essence of Don Bosco’s preventive system—not merely a technique but a spirituality inspired by the Gospel, capable of transforming lives through love.

The Preventive System: An Evangelical Vision

Reflecting on Don Bosco’s preventive system, Fr. Fabio described it as “our Gospel.” He noted that it is not merely a method but a spirituality that combines faith, reason, and love to guide young people toward a life full of meaning and purpose. “The preventive system,” he said, “invites us to look forward with hope and love, helping young people discover their potential and path in life.”

Looking to the Future with Responsibility and Gratitude

Concluding his homily, Fr. Fabio expressed gratitude for the journey that brought him to this moment. “I see this as a gift and a responsibility,” he stated. “It is a call to accompany young people and the Salesian Family on this journey toward the Promised Land, guided by Christ’s love.”

He invited everyone to renew their commitment to the Salesian mission, urging them to live with faith, hope, and love. “With Jesus, in Jesus, and through Jesus,” he said, “we can continue to walk together on this beautiful journey.”

A Moment of Grace and Renewal

Fr. Fabio Attard’s first Mass as Rector Major was a moment of grace and renewal for the Salesian Family. He reminded everyone of the profound mission entrusted to the Salesians: to be living witnesses of God’s love, especially for young people, and to walk together in faith, hope, and charity.

At the end of the celebration, in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, there was a palpable sense of joy and renewed determination—a perfect beginning for Fr. Fabio’s ministry as the 11th Successor of Don Bosco.

Courtesy: ANS-Turin

The Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati congratulates Fr Rafael Bejarano who was elected the General Councilor for Youth Ministry during the ongoing GC 29 at Valdocco, Turin. During the second round of voting on the morning of Friday, March 28, 2025, the 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Rafael Bejarano as the new General Councilor for Youth Ministry. (Courtesy: ANS)

The Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati congratulates Fr. Silvio Roggia who was elected the General Councilor for Formation during the GC 29. On the morning of Friday, March 28, 2025, during the first round of voting, the 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Silvio Roggia as the new General Councilor for Formation. (Courtesy: ANS)

The Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati congratulations Rev Fr Jorge Mario Crisafulli as the General Councillor for Missions. The 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation has elected Fr. Jorge Mario Crisafulli as the new General Councillor for the Missions. Until now, he has served as the Provincial Superior of the Africa Nigeria-Niger Province (ANN). (Courtesy: ANS)