Rev. Fr. Raphael Bejarano SDB, General Councillor for Youth Ministry, addressed the Youth Services (YS) Coordinators of the Province along with young representatives from various communities on Monday, 02 March 2026, at Don Bosco Institute, Kharghuli. In a profound and inspiring session, he reflected on the essence of Salesian Spirituality and the mission of the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM).

Speaking directly to the YS Coordinators and youth leaders, Fr. Raphael emphasized that all Salesian activities must be rooted in the values of the Gospel. “The values that come from the Gospel are the foundation of our activities,” he said, urging the youth not to reduce their identity to mere external expressions of enthusiasm. “Love for Don Bosco is not only shouting ‘Viva Don Bosco’ or organizing joyful activities. It is loving young people, accompanying them in society, and working with them to change the world.”

He stressed the importance of being associated with young people, walking with them, and building meaningful relationships inspired by Don Bosco. Even when members are no longer part of an organized Don Bosco group, he encouraged them to continue living the spirit and charism they have received. “If you are no longer part of the Don Bosco group, you must still build for young people and with young people, remaining united with the charism of Don Bosco,” he said.

Fr. Raphael underlined that the Salesian spirit is not confined to institutions or structures. Rather, it is a way of life. “Live the Don Bosco spirit even when you are no longer formally part of the Salesian society. Live with people who may not know the spirit of the Gospel, and transform society through the charism you have learned as members of the Salesian Youth Movement,” he encouraged.

He reminded the youth that this is precisely the reason they are part of the SYM: to live the Gospel values in the spirit of Don Bosco and to be agents of positive change in society.

Clarifying questions regarding SYM and various youth groups, Fr. Raphael also highlighted the importance of working in communion with the Local Church. “It is important for us to work under the Local Church, to communicate and live the identity given to us as members of the Local Church. We can and must work together,” he affirmed, calling for unity and collaboration in pastoral ministry.

At the end of the session, Rev. Fr. Bivan Rodrigues Mukhim SDB, Vice Provincial, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the visiting General Councillor for his enriching interaction with the YS Coordinators and youth leaders. He thanked Fr. Raphael for guiding the Province in deepening its understanding of Salesian Spirituality and strengthening its commitment to living the Gospel in the spirit of Don Bosco.