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AGCRM290

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AGCRM290

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YEAR LIX

JULY-DECEIUBER 1978

NO. 290

il A[I$ lllt $IlPHI[[ $flllilHl

OF THE S,ALESIAN SOCIETY

SUMMARY

Letter of the Bector Maior (p. 3)

SALESIAN EDUCATIONAL PROJECT

ln Search of Appropriate Practise

The Preventive System of Don Bosco

ln the Footsteps of Christ, the Friend of the Young

Pastoral Charity and Pedagogical Wisdom

The Salesian Style

Conclusion

2. Gommunications (p. 47).

New Provincials

New Delegates of Rector Major

Vicar of Rector Major for the FMAs

Secular Institute of VDB with Pontifical Approval

Fraternal Solidarity

3. Activites of Superior Council (p. 53)

Department for Salesian Formatlon

Department for Youth Apostolate

Department for Mlsslons

4. Documents (p.58)

and

Beply

Occaslon of

Ocoasion of

Death of

Electlon

oHfisHHisolHinoelisnsesPsauJol hVnl

Paul I

Letter of Rector Major to His Holiness John Paul I

Telegram on O,ccasion of Death of His Hollness John Paul I

5. Necrology 1p. 62)

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s. o. s. - RoMA

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1. LETTER OF THE BECTOR MAJOR

Rome

Feast ol the Assumption

Augast, L978

Dear Confreres,

\\7e are still deeply moved by the unexpected death of pope

Paul VI who has always graced our humble family with special

signs of affection and forthright advice. \\U7e admire in him a

bright testimony of magnanimiry in the ministry and holiness

of life.

I am writing to you during the days preceeding the feast

of Mary's Assumption. It is a bright coincidence. Tha proximiry

of the two events helps us paradoxically rc unite joy to iadness-

the sadness of a deceased friend with the great reahty of Mary,s

Assumption. A prophetic sign of our final victory.

Assumed into heaven, Mary is even closer and real to the

Pilgrim Church because she has become Helper who dispenses

through the centuries her blessings with motherly concern.

Today we can look upon the fifteen years of pope paul's

pontificate as a gif.t of Mary for the enrire world. The special

protection of Mary has made him teacher and guide in one of

the most trying periods of the Church's history.

The feast of Mary's Assumption and her motherly inter-

vention in favor of the People of God help us to think of our

founder who was born in the proximity of this solemn Marian

feast. The vocation of Don Bosco also seems to be a gift of

Mary for the whole christian world.

Recalling one of the last suggesrions of pope paul to our

chapter according to whom "the requirements both in the Church

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and in civil society today, appeil to correspond more than ever

to the particular apostolate of the sons of St. John Bosco";1 on

the ottrer hand, recalling that the intervention of Mary in the

first

has

dream

shaped

of little John

that "genius

Bosco was the determining factor

of an apostle" who stands out

which

in the

Church,I invite you to reflect with me on the project which is

the hallmark of our genial pastoral apostolate- the Preventive

System.

For months we have been busy deepening our application

of the results of GC 2L. Days of study, meetings and days of

prayer to better understand the capitular documents have been

held in the provinces. In many houses the local communities

have organized in the ongoing formation themes of the chapter.

All this activity is a sign of a genuine religious attitude of the

Congegation to the docility to the Spirit of the Lord.

Alio the Superior Council has collegiately rcaltzed a further

deepening of this topic to serve the confreres according to the

directives of the chapter.

I shall express a sentiment which this solemnity of Mary

evokes: we all complain of the weight of difficulties, of some

defects and defections. Yet I am deeply aware in the recesses

of my being of an inoease of the good which is being done.

The figure of Pope Paul VI in the Church is a suong proof.

The Congregation, too, has enthusiastically gtown in the aware-

ness of Jesus Christ and His mysteries, of Mary and of the Church'

A knowledge and love for Don Bosco is growing apace; religious

commitment is more deeply lived and one faces reality with

steadfastness.

It seems to me that we see more clearly, that we walk

more surely, that a new era of grace is dawning.

I GC 2l No. 448.

The abbreviation GC 21 indicates chapter Documents, General chapter of

the Salesian Society, Rome, 1978. Numbers indicate section'

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May Mary's Assumption as well as the intercession of Pope

Paul serve as sure guides as we energetically walk the long path

highlighted by the Council and our last two general chapters.

1. ln Search of Appropriate Practise

A very delicate problem for tlese "post-capitular" years is

that of finding ways of manslating into our lives the final results

of the documents of the chapter. The objective of the chapter is

precisely the "conversion" of our very selves and manner of

acting.

Now the Preventive System of Don Bosco has been, in fact,

the proper manner of living and working- {(61fi1s-praxis" as

some would say today- after the manner of the first generations

of Salesians.

The GC 2L offers us ways to the manner of identifying our-

selves amid changes.

\\We wish, therefore, to rethink our fideliry to the Preventive

System. To do this we propose a definite objective that of the

conversion of our daily li[e.

To this end, I invite you to reread once again the first docu-

ment of the chapter, "Salesians Evangelizers of the Young."

This document assures us that the Salesian practise has as

point of relerence and as authentic oieu the genuine educational

and pastoral scope of Don Bosco. This is, indeed, a positive and

leading sign of our task of renewal. rWe must seriously consider

it because, it represents not only our own growth but << in a

certain sense something new, as regards the work of the SGC." 2

The more we acquaint ourselves with the text the more

we will discover the key to its teachings and practises as found

'1 GC 21 No. 165.

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in Part. III, "The Salesian Educational and Pastoral Plan."

In the introduction we read:

the idea, therefore, that links tthe various parts of the

document and gives them unity is our vocation as

evangelizers, which becomes real when it is lived out

in our pastoral and educative projects, restudied and

put into practise.3

Of prime importance is a religious spirit which ought to

integrate our life with lasting values of our consecration and

mission,a which we find in carrying out our Preventive System.

In fact, in the mind of Don Bosco and in our living radition

this system "tends to identify itself increasingly more with the

'salesian spirit': pedagogy, apostolate, spirituality." s

Our Salesian presence and activity among the young is not

only an educational method but also, fundamentally, a religious

witnessing:

We publicly confess that the Father's love has called

and united us into a community for the evangelization

of youth, carrying on a uork ol education inspired by

the charism of Don Bosco.6

The religious commitment of each community to grow spi-

ritually in its vocation is measured, in fact, by the extent in

which the conversion is accepted to live "with the soul of the

Preventive System," 7

It is only with this "soul" that one can realize "that new

Salesian presence" which is the flight of the spirit of initiative

and missionary zed. of the first generations of our society to which

3 ibid. No. 4.

n passim Nos. 577-592

s GC 2L No. 96.

6 ibid. No. 6.

7 ibid. No L7.

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the SGC referred: "rWith the young people of today, the Preven-

tive System means that a new kind of presence is needed." 8

'$7'e are, therefore, speaking of a subject which is demanding;

one which goes to the very core of our renewal; one which forms

a bond of unity at a time of transition in which pluralism and

cultural differences could easily lead us asffayi

The Preventive System becomes all the more urgent

today when the members of the Congregation scattered

throughout the world... wish to preserve through the

community effectiveness of their vocation, the vital bond

with their Founder and unity of spirit.e

This important capitular statement reaffirms Don Albera's

statement "This magna charta of our Congregation, the Preventive

System."'o This theme reechoes Fr. Rinaldi's saying to young

confreres:

The salesian is either a salesian or is nothing; either

of Don Bosco or of no one. If we study Don Bosco,

if we follow his system, we shall be true sons; otherwise

we shall be nothing, working in a vacuum and off the

ffack. 1r

2. The Preventive System of Don Bosco

The few quotations and others taken from the GC 21 t2

supported by our traditon indicate that our Preventive System

8 ibid. No. 155.

'q GC No. 80.

'o Circular Letters of Don Pauli Albera to the Salesians, Tutln, t965, p. 375.

'r EucENE VarrNtrro, Don Nnaldi, Teacher of Pedagogy and Salesian Spi-

rituality, Turin, Crocetta, L965, p. )2,

" GC 2L Nos. 80, 96, 99.

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is basic to that "proper character" " which distinguishes us among

the People of God as salesians of Don Bosco.

2.1, Geniality Expressiae ol tbe Foander

The recent Pope Paul in speaking of the religious in their

apostolate of. evangelaation states: "their apostolate is often

earmarked by an originality, a graciousness which call for admi-

ration." la

For salesian "originality" is linked to the carrying out of

the Preventive system. This system, in fact, constitutes tbe

creatiae originality ol Don Bosco. I would like to cite several

passages from a conference given by Fr. A. Caviglia, an outstanding

authority of our Father's educational method. fn a conference

to teachers held in Rome, 1934, the year of our Fathet's canoniz-

ation, he said:

Don Bosco's greatness in the life of the Church is his

establising a definite christian pedagogy.... A christian

pedagogy lived basically in the christian life for all

times has found in bim its characteristic which is the

expression of faith of all and of faith of all and of

his holiness. ls

The underlying theme of his Preventice System can be con-

sidered as a kind of "prophetic message" (God speaking through

His saints) of our times. In this manner Don Bosco points the

way as a "doctor" of the Church, "Father and Teacher" of the

art of chtistian education. The decree of his canonization defines

him as "the prototype of the education of modern youth. He has

ti Cf. Directiaes ol Bishops and Religious in tbe Church, Vatican City, 1978,

Nos. 14, 15.

'a Eaangeli Nuntiandi No. 69.

" AITERT Cevrclra, Pedagogy of Don Bosco, Rome, t%5, p, 6,

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opened up v/ith a method truely original, the best and most

secure road to pedagogical practise." 16

In the Preventive System Don Bosco manifests a strong

creative ability. His meativity,

is not a qeativity of elements. Creating from nothing

is the work of God alone. Don Bosco's creativity is a

creatiue syntbesis which is a sign of a genius. I call it

ueatiae synthesis because its originality, its beauty, its

greatness does not reside so much in its novelty of

particulars but in the discovery of that idea which

bands them into a new and results into a whole. ,,

The catalyst of such a crearive synthesis has been called by

the chapter "pastoral cbarity", heart of the salesian spirit.rE Fr.

Caviglia considered it more as a method under the aspect of

"bont)." It was a goodness which was visible and intimate. A

goodness which elicits a response of love and creates an environ-

ment of kindness.

Some of us have heard Fr. Caviglia when he preached spi

ritual retreats. He stared quite frankly that such kindness ought

to be the object of a fourth vow for the salesians- a vow of

kindness and the pracise of the Prevenrive System.

I believe that it is especially urgent today in the Congre-

gation to become once again aware of this originality and creativity

of Don Bosco.

Perhaps his early disciples spoke so enthusiastically in a

language which pre-dated the developmenr of the science of educa-

tion and the inevitable changes have created a certain remissness,

a certain slackening for serious study which could have negarive

16 << novae juvenrutis educator princeps, nova prorsus...method, quae quidem

in paedagogica disciplina vere escellentissimum ac tutissimum signavit iter >. ASS

1935, p. 285.

r7 Ar,sBnro CevrclrA, op.cit., p. 9.

t8 Consritutions No. 40.

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results on our identity. Don Bosco instead incarnated in this

"system" his own sanctity. He conceived pedagogy "beyond

theory and beyond the narrow confines of methodology" to the

realm of a wisdom which is based on the chatism and special gift

of the Holy Spirit. In this manner "the originality" of his system

has acquited a future dimension.

F. Caviglia again says:

It is without doubt a paradox: his title to greatness,

the invention of the Preventive System. The originality

and the end result of the mind and heart of this rue

genius of goodness is this powerful creative synthesis.

He lived it. This idea, this synthesis, otiginated from

the heart and resided in goodness... This system of

Don Bosco is the system of kindness or, for better

words, kindness built into a s?steril. Quite naturally

it is kindness springing from the heart of a saint and,

hence, a kindness which is more than human. Here

the heart of the man gives shape and form to that

which the idea of chariry dictates, namely, the molding

and the saving of souls." "

It seems to me that these citations have hit the mark. They

clearly describe with accuracy the most original cbaracter ol our

"proper character" in the Church; they show us what is the

"pastoral charity" which is the perennial source of our identity.a

2.2 A Date in Tradition

It is clear that when C{,2L speaks of the Preventive System

it does not simply refer to the classic pages written by Don Bosco

in L877 and up to the SGC incorporated in the Regulations.

Rather it is "an organic whole of convictions, attitudes, actions,

n'e

AInERT Cevtcrre, op.cit., pp., L+15.

Constitutions No. 40; ASGC 26, L27.

2 Pages 11-20

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presence, means, methods and structures which have progressively

established a certain personal and. community manner of existence

and action of Don Bosco, of each individual salesian and member

of the salesian famtly."'l

In this respect Don Bosco's brochure is, without doubt, one

of the most precious documents. Yet his apostolic and educa-

tional method cannot be adequately understood in the few pages

of his brochure or orher of his many writings. It is enough to

glance at the most evident and clear evidence of his system, the

growth of Dominic Savio in holiness. During Dominic's life span

a great part of Don Bosco's writings were not yet in existence.

The Oratory of Valdocco had not yet a full residenr program.

We are dealing, therefore, with an apostolic and educational

practise which is clarified by the help of Don Bosco's rreatise

and other writings, but above all by his subsequent manner of

acting.

The analysis of such a pracrise requires a special task of

tuning in on the spirit. In fact, since the "system" is the sum

total of convictions, attitudes and presence, and was created and

lived in a social environment of the last century, we must earnestly

endeavor to make some subtle distinction; that is, the living and

permanent heidoom of the Preventive System. Its .,lasting,'

values and its message for the future is not to be identified with

a cultural view and with an ecclesial mentality of the past.

But if it may have been lamentable to have to reduce the

Preventive System to legal observance, it would be more disastrous

n Cf. AA.VV., "The Educational System of Don Bosco as Found in Old

and New Pedagogy"; "Act of the Salesian European Congtess on the Educational

System of Don Bosco", Turin, LDC, 1974, No. 301.

For Don Bosco the expression Preventive System did not refer to a written

work but to "that sum of means and educational procedure which srippose and

imply an entire organi56 of convictions, ideas, reasons and faith which comprise

his way of dealing with youth". Peter Braido, Tbe Preoentiae System ol Don

Bosco, Zuich, PAS-Verlag, 1964, pp 66.

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to believe that it no longer bears for us that original vitality so

necessary for our renewal.

The GC 21 exhorts us to discover with seriousness and

love its "charismatic nucleus" so as to preserve and to carry on

our original dynamism. This ought to be done by the entire

salesian f.amily, since without the practise of the Preventive System

we cannot be faithful to Don Bosco.z

23. Tbe Basic Elernent of Oar "Cbarism"

The SGC had aheady inserted the subject matter of the

Preventive

system as

System in

"precious

the text

heritage"

Iof

the Constitutions defining the

linked to that "apostolate of

love" which forms "the center of our salesian spirit." 2a

With good reason, therefore, Fr. Louis Ricceri in his important

letter, "Decentralization and Unity Today in the Congregation"

of October, 1977, in presenting the original components of our

cbarisrn explicitly enumerates the Preventive System as a special

"style of apostolic presence." 2s

It is closely linked to other components of salesian charism,

especially to the "spirit" of Don Bosco and his "mission" to youth.

In the Preventive System, in fact, one can distinguish two

2 For a more comprehensive historical-doctrinal in depth study of salesian

practise of Don Bosco, three outstanding authors are worthy of note:

Fr. A. Caaiglia in his commentary on the lives of Magone, Besucco and,

above all, Dominic Savio, shows a penettating grasp of Don Bosco's spirit'

superior

-hasFrb. rPo.uRgihctalodounteqiunitheisabuothookriDtaotinveBlyosctoh,eTebdeuEcda.tuiocantaolr

and as

aspect

a major

of Don

Bosco's charism.

has

-scieFnrt.ifPic.alBlyraaipdporoinachheisd

Preaentioe Systen ol Don Bosco is the

the subiect of the Preventive System.

scholar.

Part I,

"The Times, Works and Personality of Don Bosco" merits attention.

Constitutions No. 25; Cf. Regulation Nos. 3,

ACS 272, October-December, 197), No. 10.

ACS indicates Acts of Superior Chapter of Salesian Society'

Superior Chapter of Salesian Society.

" ibid. No. Lo.

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levels or aspects which are different yet closely linked to one

another: tbe inspiring principle which creates a spiritual attitude

in the individual, "the spiritual thrust", and the metbod.ological

principle which serves as a guide in the concrete situation of his

action, "the educational method."

Between the "pastoral thrust" and the "pedagogical thrust"

one can notice a subtle distinction which is worthy of reflection

and deepening insight, but it would be an illusion and a danger

to add that to forget the close bond which unites rhem so radically

as to make it impossible to separate rhem. To dissociate Don

Bosco's method from his apostolic soul would be to destroy both.

In this manner the Prevenrive System is totally linked to the

salesian " spirit" by means of its "pastoral thrust" that it consti-

tutes its incarnate character. For a good reason it can be defined

as an authentic spiritualtty of. our apostolic action and "therefore

our practical way of tending for the fulness of charity and christian

life." In fact the educator is completely saturated by sentiments,

thoughts and activities which characterae his existence.

On the other hand the Preventive System is so directly linked

to the salesian mission with regard to the "educational method"

that it translates it into pracrice. The SGC reminded us that be-

tween salesian "mission", one and identical for all and everywhere,

and "pastotal" in action, changeable according to circumstances,

that there is an important level which one needs to harmorize.26

The Preventive System is to be situated between two frames,

that of education and apostolate which enlighten and guide the

various projects to elaborate and apply in an orderly fashion of

the diverse situation of time and space.

To sum up, the "apostolic thrust" and "method of action"

of the Preventive System fuse so perfectly to make of the system

% ACGS No. 30.

ACGS tefers to Acts of Special General Chapter of Salesian Society,

Rome, 1972.

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a point of reference for the unity and identity of the salesian

Lanily in the Church.

2.4 Tbe Sure Way to a True Conuersion

The originality and geniality of our Fonuder are not museum

pieces but an appeal to a challange. They point out the right

path to choose for that concrete conversion to which the GC 2L

invites us.

Apostolic charity translated into goodness is at the root of

our spirit and our mission. The very name salesian originates

from goodness in practise considering a saint who had incarnated

the "begnignitas et humanitas" of Our Divine Savior. It is,

indeed, a name which qualifies our vocation and points out the

goal for which we are accountable in the Church. The entire life

of Don Bosco is like a commentary on the bearers of this name.

!7hen nine years old John Bosco felt called by the Most

High and considered the Madonna as "the inspiring force" and

"teacher" of the Preventive System.

!7ith good reason Fr. Rinal& on the occasion of the centi-

nary of the first dream, 7925, "had ordered that a corrmemo-

ration be held in every house and he himself held con{etences

with the salesians and sisters on the subject. Already at that time

he aimed to help them see how it had been pointed out to Don

Bosco that his educational system was founded on the spirit of

goodness and meekness." u

For this reason Don Bosco made the formation of his first

salesians consist in learning to live and practise the Preventive

System. This remained the tra&tional formation of the first

genefations of salesians.

Among the last letters of Don Bosco there is an important

' Eucrue Cnw.e,, Life ol the Seruant of God, Pbilip Nnaldi, Turin, S.E.I.,

1948, p. 443.

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one to Fr. James Costamagna in Argentina. Don Bosco writes

I feel myself failing and I would tike to have with me

my sons and daughters of America... I would like to

give you a conference on the salesian spirit which

should serve as a guide to our actions and our speech.

The Preventive System should be for us a11... Let words

of kindness, patience and charity pervade our classes....

Let every salesian be a friend of all; never to seek

revenge. Let him easily pardon. Never recall incidents

once forgiven... Kindness of speech, in word, in advising

conquefs everything and all.":8

Ve know that "rhis letter contributed ro the spiritual and

temporal welfare of the province of Argentina. Not only the

provincial but other confreres who made copies of the letter sent

thanks to the saint. Some who felt they were at fault or found

greater difficulties to be charitable and parient took a vow which

they renewed every month on the occasion of the practise of

'Happy Death'."'

The recent Pope Paul with farsighted vision and deep interest

in our vocation on May 24, 1973 in his motu proprio, .,Magiste-

rium Vitae", delivered on the occasion of the elevation of our

Pontifical Atheneum to a University stated:

The members of the Salesian Society have respectfully

received from their Father and Founder thar special

charism in the afi of. education entrusted to them nor

only as a sacred deposit to be guarded jealously but also

as a fruitful seed to be cultivated faithfully.s

Hence, be it at the Pontifical Salesian University or at our

centers of study u/e must carry on that activity according to

Eucrua Cr*rt, Letters

ibid. p.33, footnote.

St.

lobn.

Bosco,

Yol.4,

ACS 272 October-December, 1971. Nos. 72-77.

Turin,

L959,

3)2.

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which the spirit of the holy Founder which is well known as the

" preaentiae system" and which not without a special design of

God has drawn its force from the gospel. \\7e are, therefore,

dealing with an element which is "substantial." 3r

Let us listen to the tefreshing words of P. Duvallet, a

French priest who for twenty years was at the side of Abbe

Pierre, the apostle for the education of youth of today:

You have schools, oratories and youth centers but only

oInnethtreeawsauyrein-

the educational method ot' Don Bosco.

which youth is abused, taken advantage

of, mistreated, the Lord has entrusted you with a method

of education in which respect for the boy, his nobility

and fuarlry, his dignity as a son of God triumphs.

Maintain, renew, enrich this method with modern

approaches. Adopt it to the youth of the twentieth

century which Don Bosco could not know. But for

God's sake preserve it! Change everything. Lose, if

the case may be, your houses but hold on to this treasure

thus building in thousands of heatts a way to love and

save youth which is the heredity of Don Bosco''2

3. In the Footsteps of Ghrist Friend of the Young

The salesian family was born of the love of Don Bosco fot

the young. A love of pre&lection which developed and permeated

his natural gifts but which was radically a special gift of God

destined for the salvation of the youth of today. This predilection

welled up in him from his enthusiastic adherence to Jesus Christ

and under the guidance of Mary leading to make ptesent the

C,C 21 No. 216.

AA.W. "Prevendve

System

Don

Bosco

Old

and

New

Pedagogy";

"Acts of European Salesian Conference on Educational System of Don Bosco".

Turin, LDC L974, p. )L4.

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mystery of Christ "while blessing children and does good to dl,"

" as the Council says.

The Gospel shows the love of Jesus Christ for the young

in various ways: He loves them. "Jesus looked... and loved him.

Mk, 10,21. He wishes to be surrounded by them; Mt. L9,14-15;

Mk. 10, 1.3-1.6; Lk. 18, 1.5-1.7.

"Let the little children", Lk. 9. 46-48, "He who welcomes."

He invites them to follow Him. The rich young man, Mt.

1.9, 1.6-26; Mk. 10, L7-22.

He heals them. "Go home, your son will live." Io. 4, 46-54.

He resurrects. "Young man, I tell you get up." Lk.7, LI-L5.

Daughter of Jairus, Lk. 8, 40-55; Mk. 5. 21.-43.

He frees them from the devil. Mk. 17, 14-1.8; Lk. 9, 37-43.

He casts out the devil from the daughter of Canaarite

woman. Mt. 15, 21,-28; Mk. 7, 24-30.

He grants pardon to the prodigal son. Lk. 15, L132.

He works a miracles. "There is a small boy here." Io. 6,

L-L5.

\\7e cannot explain Don Bosco's deep delight for the young

without his love for Jesus Christ. In the following of Christ one

finds the life-giving source of his vilality. This is the initial gift

of the Most High; the "first charism" of Don Bosco. We are

not dealing with human inclinations or natural preferences but

beyond them. A modern theologian of the religious life states:

Such a level, and no other than what Jacques Maritain

has defined as 'the sphere of the spirit at its source'.

It is described as the point of poetical inspiration, the

genius of the artist, the mystical experience and above

all the indwelling o[. grace...

I7e find ourselves beyond the beckoning frontiets, with

a grand view. The normal encloses one's existence as

33 Luruen Gentiurn N. 46.

2.8 Page 18

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if it had mote in store. It is almost as if beneath the

ashes, ambers had the source of a fire... as if the expe-

rience in the soul of Paul on the road to Damascus. s

It is the sight of Don Bosco's vocation and, therefore, of

his intuition in the art of education and of his spiritual originality

of a saint.

3."1. "Tbe Gift of Pred.ilection lor tbe Young"

Don Albera in his important circular letter of October, 1920,

wfote:

"Don Bosco is our model in the education and sancti-

fication of youtJr."

He perhaps best depicted with greatest care and psychological

insight Don Bosco's love as a type for the salesian vocation. He

defines it:

The gift of predilection for the young. It is not enough

to have a cefiain natural attraction but it is necessary

to have a liking for them. This predilection in the

initial stage is a grtt of God; it is the same salesian

vocation. It is up to our intelligence and our heart to

develop and perfect it.3s

This apostolic predilection for young people appeared in Don

Bosco as a kind of "passion". Better, it was his "super-vocation"

to which he dedicated himself "avoiding every obstacle and

everything, even though good, which would hinder its reaT:zation."

(Fr. Louis Ricceri) Fr. Peter Stella states: 5

' Jrer Menm Rocrn TlLtAno, Carisrna e Sequela, Bologna, Dehoniane

Editions,

1978, pp. 57-58.

Circular Letter ol Fr. Paul Albera,

ACS 284, October-December, 1978,

p. 372.

p. 31.

2.9 Page 19

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-19-

For Don Bosco to love youth did not only mean to

arouse affection, but also to feel its attraction, to be

subdued, to be aware of the indispensable role of one's

Iife. Don Bosco expresses it in words which suprass

the conventional letter-writing sty-le as exemplified in

his letters to his boys from St. Ignatius near Lanzo,

from Rome and from Florence.3T

fn a memorable page of the early cited circular Fr. Albera

$/rote:

One must say that Don Bosco had a Iiking for us in

a special way which was characteristically his. One felt

his irresistaLle atraction. I felt -yr.if captive to a

powerful force which nourished my thoughts, my words

and my activities. I felt myself loved as ar no other

time, far gfeater than any other. He surrounded us all

and completely as if in an armosphere of happiness and

joy. In him there was a magnetic atffaction. He attract-

ed our youthful hearts in such a manner that we could

not leave him. Even if we could have, we would never

have left him for all the gold in the world for such

was our joy in his having such an ascendancy over us

which for him was so natural, without any effort on

his part. It could not be otherwise because each spoken

word or action reflected the holiness of union with

God which is perfect charity. He drew us to himself

with the fullness of supernatural love which burst forth

from his heart. From this singular attracrion there

sprang up the conquest of our hearts. In him the abun-

dance of natural gifts was raised to a supernatwallevel.s

' PrrBn Srure, Don Bosco in the History of Catbolic Religion, yol. 2,

PAS-VserlCagir,caZlwaricLhe,tt7e9r6o9,l

p. 473.

Fr. Paul

Albera,

pp.

)72-374.

2.10 Page 20

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Don Bosco nourished this his charism, the apostolate for the

yoog, with a constant meditation on salvation desired by Our

Divine Savior and calling of his priestly vocation: "the young are

the delight

those who

of the

concefn

Lord." 3e "Mary

themselves with

HtheelpyooufngC.h" t4istiaHnes

blesses

backed

up thris special inspiration of God with realistic reflections based

on historical happenings in a society in transition. "Youth is that

delicate and precious portion of society on which the hopes of

the future are based." n'

His predilection for youth became the driving force of his

life. "The Lotd has sent me fot the young, hence, T must not

become engrossed in other rnatters and preserve my health for

their good." And it is the mission of the Congregation. "I7e

must have as our first aim, the good of the young. Those projects

which take us away from them are not good." a2

At the basis of the Preventive System there is, therefore,

this preferential choice which requires fuIl commitment to young

people prescinding from so many other possibilities: "\\U7e already

have too many things on hand without going to look fot othet

projects. These projects only direct our attention elsewhere." "

Today, too, our Congregation must grow and live in a trae

apostolic predilection towards boys and tbe young. This is

indispensable for a healthy growth.

\\7e cannot make the Preventive System live if this clear

choice is not sealed by the charism of our Founder regardless of

other ideological interpretations. Even if we righty speak of our

16,

66.

D8.

4r MB 2, p. 45.

MB indicates to Tbe Biograpbical Memoirs of Saint Jobn Bosco, a work

in 19 volumes written from 1898 to t939 by Frs. Baptist Lemoyne, Angelo Amadei

and Eugene Ceria. (Extra-commercial Edition).

42 llIB L4, p. 284.

s MB 14, p.284.

3 Pages 21-30

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3.1 Page 21

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-2t-

"apostolate of the young in the segment of our society", this

segment only narrows the human sphere of action of our predi-

lection rather than change the object of our prioriry. I7ithout

doubt "predilection" does not mean "exclusion", but it does

demand that the youngsters still maintain the first and most im-

portant place.a

The GC 2l afftums that:

We recognize in youth itself the other source of our

inspiration in spreading the gospel. !7e salesians are

sent to the young, and especially to the poorest of them

and we collaborate in the creation of a new society

grounding to the full their life in faith." as

We must not be surprised if those communities lose their

salesian spirit if for one reason or anorher they lose their predi-

lection for youngsters.

The first and most urgent need of the Preventive System

today is "not to desert the difficult field of our youth commit-

ment." e

Each community program, each individual's commitment,

each new seatch of salesian presence, it to be aimed towards

placing the Congregation at rhe heart of the problem of young

people.

3.2 Sbared Charity

The daily presence of the salesian educaror with his youngsters

is one fundamental aspect of the Preventive System. Don Bosco

had given himself completely to them and did all he could to

live in their midst. He could very well assure them, without fear

of deception, that his life was for rhem:

4 Cf. Constitutions 2, 14. ASGC 45, 53, 45, 55.

GC No. 12.

ibid. No. 11.

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-22-

Be awate that I am completely at your disposal morning

and evening,

have no other

day

aim

and

but

tnoigohbtta-in

at whatever hour. I

your spiritual, intellec-

tual and physical advantages. I did not desire that

you consider me as youf superior but as your friend.

Have full confidence in me; this is what I desire; what

I ask as true friends".4 I study for you; I work for

you; I live for and I am ready even to die for you." a

The salesian does not only work for the young but among

and with them. The Preventive System is for him a practise

directed by the heart rathet than a scientific manner of procedure.

He has need, therefore, to leam the art and the sacrifice to be

physically present. He is completely involved as an educator, "a

sign of and bearer of the love of God fot young people." ae

To make the Preventive System live it is necessary to review

and renew the salesian practise of presence and of friendliness

whether it be in genuine predilection or in youthful develope-

ment of today.

Here is a subject and assignment we must face with courage

and with christian generosiry in the gift of self.

The GC 2L has reminded us of "considerable difficulties

experienced by some salesians in accepting and understanding the

young, in

problems."

teunTinhgis

in to their wavelength when

situation could lead to missing

discussing their

the mark. Some

choose those who are more likeable rather than those whom the

Lord sends.

It is disturbing to note in many of our works a dimi-

nution in number of this preferential group, and that

MB 7, p.

DovrpNrc

503

RurrrNo,

Cbronicles ol the Oratory of St. Francis of

Sales,

Salesian Archives 110, Rome, MS ,, 10,

ae Constitutions 2.

so m 21 No. 21.

3.3 Page 23

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we seem to be choosing others who have less claim to

our attention." sl

For this reason ,1r. rcyilalization of the Preventive System

demands that at the head of the list of priorities an acttal

presence among young people-those in greater need. The peda-

gogy of Don Bosco is apostolic; born, developed and lived in

this segment which constitutes the special place for a genuine

salesian experience.

3.3 Kruowledge ol Each One and of tbe "Youth Situation"

Predilection of the young repuires a continual deepening of

interest, be it for the individual youngster with whom one works

or in that cultural phenomenon which today is the "youth sit-

uation."

Friendliness and dialogue with tbe indiaidual, the unsurpas-

sable example of Don Bosco to which we have referred, is a

tadition of dialogue and friendliness which we ought to keep

and renew.

In our day the ouday in educatonal services has become so

exhorbitant as to place greater demands on instruction and

culture.

Now this can place a heavy burden on education. I7e must

not forget that our service in education is the task of evangeli-

zation and for this reason assure the necessary and even ideal

means for such an objective. s2

Growth in faith has need of a personal touch which can

bring to maturity the individual vocation. fn "en masse" programs

we lose the best opportunity to influence which was so characte-

ristic of Don Bosco's manner of dealing with the young.

il ibid.

s2 Cf, Eoangelii Nuntiandi No. 46.

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-24-

Knouledge of the "youtb situation", a phenomenon of today,

is a mattet of great urgency for us. It is an element conditioning

our dialogue with each youngster and with the entfue gamut of

the apostolate. There is today this very special "world of the

young" which bodes good and evil. The GC 2L describes it

with few general references saying that youngsters "go through

this experience as living parts of a setting called'youth situation'."s3

For us it is necessary "to lend a willing ear to the voice of the

world of the young and to keep it in mind in the educative and

pastoral dialog of evangelization." s

This is of the greatest importance because the educational

mission of Don Bosco considers quite positively young people as

a treasure of society and and the Church. Young people constitute

a unique dimension of human existence, a propitious moment, a

responsibility for the faith and not simply a passing phase and

an age of preparation.

A salesian does not intend to help a boy "pass" or "get over"

his young years, but rather to live his days in the company of

others developing, through his rypical plans and his dreams, a

personality grounded on evangelical principles to make him a

candidate worthy of. canotization even at the age of. fi{teen.

Now the cultural phenomenon of "youth situation" requires

special knowledge of his condition:

The harmonious relationship which is so necessary to

educate them (young people), Iiking what they like but

without abandoning our adult role of salesian educators,

becomes in this way both difficult and complex. tt

To renew the Preventive System it will be necessary not

only to penetrate the heart of each individual but also the acrual

33 GC 21 No. L3; Cf. ASGC No. 46.

v GC 21 No.20.

55 GC 21 No. 13.

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_25_

life situation of each youngster: his aspirations, sense of values,

his home condition, his models, his tensions, his goals, his life

ambitions.

The chapter, therefore, asks us:

As a premise to every educational and pastoral program,

salesians need to be more sensitive to the 'youth con-

dition', understood in its expectations which are most

in line with the gospel, through an adequate and

serious analysis and by means also of direct contact

with the young.s6

3.4 A Carelul Eualuation of Hurnan Reason

The correct understanding of the young is a basic necessity

of their education and upbringing. Young people today live in

a society which touches their sensibilities by changes because they

easily assimilate the values and disvalues of a new culture and

present a rca1. pastoral problem to be conftonted.

To seriously analyze the conditions of the young it is neces-

sary to have a suitable preparation and competence in the so

called human sciences which today are already studied in the first

years of formation. These studies ought to hold a prominent

place in the updating of the salesian and in his continual readings.

These human sciences while an enrichment can also be a danger.

In thefu respective field they need to integrate their findings

with global conditions and the ultimate human rcakty. This

result is to be evaluated in the light of philosophical and theolog-

ical insights and above all in the light of faith.

To renew the Preventive System there is need of an intense

and continued collaboration between the human disciplines en-

lightened by philosophical-pedagogical insights and the discipline

s ibid. No. 30.

3.6 Page 26

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26-

of faith based on a pastoral-theological vision. \\flithout this

indispensable interchange of reason with human sciences and

theology we shall not have the required knowledge of the con-

ditions of the young and sources of their evangelization.

Much evil can result by a one-sided and conceited point

of view.

In a special manner rcalizng that today awareness of the

conditions of the young abound in the psychosociological field, it

is necessary to underscore the urgenry to correlate and link

knowledge of the history of salvation, a sense of sin, and the

original riches of the patrimony of faith so as not to lose sight

of the true perspective.

The word of God, in fact, is not simply a ceftain convergence

of values, or a response of human aspiration but mainly a message,

a calling, an interpellation. To "believe" indicates to teceive

not simply to discover. God is truthfully "other than" the tem-

poral values even though it is beautiful and indispensable to

know how to discover the newness of the signs of the times.

In the act of evangelizing it is, without doubt, necessary to

know and cultivate the new style of life, of participation but

without indentifyhg its values with those of the Gospel which

is the bearer of a special riches$, superior and distinct, not to

be confused with the cultural level.

The youth of today demand that we take interest and concern

in human affaks, study and promote theit positive aspects, but

also to know their limitations, to critically penetrate their ambi-

valence and to single out their negative aspects so as not to fall

into danger, not imaginaty, of. man's self-centeredness.

"Man's bend of mind" and "man's self-centeredness' are not

the same. The former is demanded by the Preventive System,

the latter would be a corruption. As the memorable Pope Paul VI

said at the conclusion of Vatican II: The Church has "turned to"

but not "turned away from" man.

Our true involvement in "youth situation" ought not to

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_27

polarae our human competence, to place obstacles on our other

rudical involvement as disciples and prophets of the Lord with

its theological competence.

4. Pastoral Gharity and Pedagogical Wisdom

Don Bosco's method as history indicates is clearly a "pastor-

al" activity. \\We give to this term a meaning which is specific,

linked to the apostolic mysrery of the Church.

The type of charity which initiated it and inspired it in the

heart of Don Bosco is that which grows in the mystery of apostolic

succession in which the presbyterate with the collaboration of

the episcopate shepherd a special porrion of the flock in the light

of salvation and the coming of the Kingdom of God. This meaning

is not forgotten in an attentive rereading of the Preventive System.

He, too, carrys out the teachings of Don Bosco without being a

priest-and these are, indeed, many-must understand this radical

concept which gives the tone to so many aspects and explains

the characteristic features of a style all its own.

Don Braido writes:

In my opinion this indicates that Don Bosco has placed

the summit of his concern, and hence of his interest

for the young, their insertion into society, in the labor

field and professional fied. This benefit of their edu-

cational maturiry had one sole aim: their christian

redemption in this life and their erernal salvation. He

did not deny the intrinsic validity of work to make of

the boy an upright man and good citizen and hence of

a wotk accesible not to priests alone.

Don Bosco wished that the ranks of his social and educ-

ational apostolates be filled with zealous lay persons

("Coadjutors") in his religious society and outside his

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-28-

religious society with ("Cooperators"). In a very con-

crete way he envisioned that the combined effort tend

towards a supernatural christian redemption with an

eschatological dimension. The need was to have recourse

to the means of grace, the sacraments and to the minis-

ters who could dispense them.t

Today, therefore, a true rcalizaldon of the Preventive System

directs us to the theme of "Priesthood" of the New Alliance in

the light of conciliar doctrine. Vatican II has recalled the key

meaning of the royal ptiesthood of the faithful and in this manner

has thrown a light on the function of service and animation of

the ministerial priesthood.* The bishop with the presbyterate are

consecrated to a priestly life for the whole community. The Pre-

ventive System is permeatedby a priestly spirit.

A vast panorama opens on the horizon 1s 2 diligent rereading

to which *i CC 2l on the explicit invitation of Pope Paul VI

has invited us to consider in particular the priestly figure of the

Rector. The problem is indeed more extensive and compelling.

The results of studying

of the true "pastoral"

it carefully

aspect for

will

all

be a definite explanation

those who work in the

salesian mission of the Church.

4.1 Penetration Not DissiPation

The "pastoral" thrust of the Preventive System serves as a

unifying link between evangebzation and education.

Don Bosco, in fact, excludes in his pastoral-educational

activity any division between education and evangelization.

He wished to desoibe his practise with a kind of catchy

slogan: "Evangelize by educating and educate by evangelizing."

Prrsn BneIoo, The Preaentiae

Cf. Larnen Gentiun No. 10.

System

Don

Bosco,

88.

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_29_

With this slogan the salesian youth apostolate is characte-

tized by the cultural incarnation in the field of education. Sale-

sian education is to be distinguished by its constant pastoral

scope. It is not a play on words bur an avoidance of two harmful

arrangements; viz., that of pretending simply to reduce pastoral

pedagogy to that whic} extols human findings, as if these findings

were already christian in their very structure.

The GC 2L states: "\\7e are well aware that education and

evangehzation are specifically distinct activities of their class, bur

nevertheless there is a strict connection between them on the

practical plane of existence." se

Their mutual autonomy of nature and order do not indicate

difference of practise and att.

The distinctive nature with its respecrive values and relative

science does not, therefore, impose a subject matter contrary

to "a christian education." In theory it would be a kind of

nominalism which is alien to historic realism. Berter, it would

not take into account either the existing pfactise, or the existence

of two fields of activity, or the existential unity of the person,

or the christian meaning of one history.

4.2 To Euangelize "by educating"

Let us consider the first part of our formula: "to evangelize

by educating".

The pastoral concern of Don Bosco is characterized by the

choice of education as the area and field of genuine pastoral

activity.

Hence the Preventive System tends towards the existential,

bringing into bold relief "evangelization" and "education" which

have been underscored in the apostolic exhortation "Evangelii

Nuntiandi." @

5e GC 2l No. 14.

& Eaangelii Nuntiandi Nos. 31-16.

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-30-

Our SGC had spoken of "complete christian development"

and of "christian education leading for freedom." Don Bosco

in his days "was fond of summarizing the program of life proposed

to boys in simple but meaningful formulas. He speaks of 'good

christian and respectable citizens'; he sets his sights on 'health,

wisdom and holiness." 6r

His pastoral concern is not reduced to a simple catechetical

or liturgical instruction but embraces the concrete pedagogical-

cultural situation of the boy.

His pastoral concern is directed to the inner core of the

process of humanization without doubt with a oitical eye to its

short-comings but also with an optimistic global view of human

maturity. He was convinced that the gospel seed must be planted

in this field to lead the young people to give themselves whole-

heartedly in their own time.

In this manner his pastoral concern leaned toward the up-

building of a new society so much so that Don Bosco could

present his "System" as a genuine element of promoting a common

good to any politician who was not keen on matters of faith.

\\fle are dealing with that evangelical chafity which is exempli-

fied in the giving of a glass of water and a piece of bread, in

visiting the sick and the imprisoned, in freeing and helping the

wayrvard and abandoned boy.

ITith good reason Don Bosco is known in the Church and

in the world as a "Saint Educator" since he directed his holiness

in educating. On the other hand if the Gospel is a value for

sa-lvation in the process of a boy's growth and if a boy lives in

a period of educational process, his evangelaation has to be

assisted by an educational process by which his faith is to be

integrated as a unifying element of his own petsonality.

The formula "evangelize by educating" carries with it some

precise options on the part of the salesian

o' GC 21 No. 8l

4 Pages 31-40

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4.1 Page 31

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-37-

One must note that the Preventive System as a ',praxis,,

places these options on the existential plane and so wi refer

them to the person who evangelizes and educates, to his convict-

ions, to his intimate motives, to his competence, to his method

and ways among the young people. I shall list the more impor-

tant options of this first formula:

o Tbe tbrust utbicb sets the educational process into action.

The reason why the salesian (as an individual or as a community)

plunges himself into the educational field has its origin outside

the realm of culture. It originates from his pastoral charity, or

better, from a motive of service to the Gospel. The fundamental

option of his whole life is the following of Christ wholeheartedly.

This basic choice permeares the very being of the salesian so that

all his activity, whatever it be, acquires evangelical intention.

"The Preventive System", Don Bosco often said, ,,is charity.

The holy fear of God infused into the hearr.,,@

The interior thrust (personal or communitatian) must be

guided and directed to the point of holiness. To neglect tlris

would reduce the formula "evangelize by educating', to a snare

that would make of evangeltzation a purely human gimmick.

\\7ith good reason Don Bosco chose the motto: ,,Give me

souls" to point the way and to stimulate the salesian on his

mission.

o Positiae concern tor aalaes and cultural institutiorzs. The

intention to evangelize brings the salesian (as a person or as a

community) to appreciate and ro assume the educational task of

human values, thus deepening and developing the specific nature

which is endowed with its own finality even if it Lnows that a

certain autonomy which responds in the order of analysis and of

@ MB 6, p. 381; Cf. Circular Letters of Fr. Paul Albera, pp.374375

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-32-

their study does not bring independence of. f.uth in the practical

order in the art of education.6

There is, in fact, a very important distinction which has

to be maintained between the natural rcality to be considered

analytically in its formal autonomy and the same reality considered

globally and harmoniously in so far as it refers to a man living

in history and recapitulating in Christ.

At any rate, the fact that values, cultural institutions and

human sciences have their own specific goals, the Preventive

System should be open to the initiatives and cultural institutions

with a special view for the needs of youth thus helping to bring

about their harmonious growth.

Don Bosco was most attentive to human values. lWe have

only to think what he did in the arca of. schools, works, leisure

time, printing, cultural updating, music, otganizations etc.. Orly

a person with a free and very human spirit-without any touch

of Pelegianism--<ould leave to his disciples such words: "Give

myouusnicg,sdteercslapmleantiroynso,fthtiemateertoansdhwouatlk, sjuamrepvearnyderffuenct.iveGymmenaanssti.c"ss,

In this manner, cultural and educational know-how of the

salesian will be a gauge to measure the sincerity and efficacy of

his intention to evangelize. On the other hand, his intention

will be the light which will illumine him on the way in the art

of education.

o To securely bind tbe Gospel to culture. In the carrying

out of the Preventive System, the Gospel is presented in a manner

closely linked to concrete situations. The Gospel is not isolated

from life but harmoniously set is the growth process of the

youngster's personality and development. It is not to consist in

legal observances and obligations, but is a gif.t and a power which

63 Cf. Apostolicam Actuositatern, No. 7

e MB 13, pp. 920-921.

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-33-

permeates one's whole person which funs ovef into history and

the entire creation of the Mystery of Christ.

Don Bosco was always concerned to have boys see the inner

human development of the person and of society, "the beauty of

Religion." He sought always to prevent and heal the dramatic

cleavage of the Gospel and culture. He often repeated: "Only

religion can begin and bring to completion the true task of

education." 6s

A true sense of gradual growth. The Constitutions of the

Salesian Congregation state:

'W'e accept yourh as we find them and imitate the patience

of God himself whatever the srate of their present

freedom or faith... \\7e seek to enlighten and srimulate

them while recognizing the subtle process by which faith

grows. In education we should aim at involving young

people more and more in their own development.6

It is an educational process that bears in mind all the

human dynamism and creates in the youngsters the necessary

requfuements for a free response.

For this reason the first patt of. the formula "evangelize by

educating" bears a special need to reactivate the preventive

System: each one must be true evangelical "animatofs,, as pefsons

and communities 67; to consider a specific cultural area with its

values; its institutions and sciences as the environment and destiny

of our pastoral mission.

4.3 Educate "by euangelizing"

Let us briefly look into the second parr of the formula.

If it is a fact that the evangelical choice of the preventive

MB 3, p. 605; Cf. MB

Constitutions No. 25.

p.768:

10,

2M.

57 Constitutions No. 25.

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-34

System is the cultural choice of education, it is likewise true

that its educational task is firmly lniltzed by the pastoral aspect

of evangelization. Our educational outlook is "pastoral." This

not only in the sense that on the part of the educator it grows

and is nourislred by the daily apostolic charity, but also in the

sense that the whole educative process with its contents and

methodology is directed to the christian goal of salvation and

filled with its light and its grace.

This does not mean that salesian pedagogy is simply concerned

with establishing a set program to impart lessons on religion or

some form of culture; rather, it must bear a global task to impart

absolute values of God and to interpret the life and history of

the richness of the Mystery of Christ.

This pedagogy is well aware of the future resurrection and

f:ul7y rcalbes the vivifying presence of the Holy Spirit in the

Church and the world. It is objectively concerned and focuses

on the nerve-center of man's history. The Preventive System

intends to propose an education which is realistically aimed at

the heart and center of the man of history, as a practical aft to

learn to grow in fulness.

This manner of "educating by evangelizing" also catries with

it the concrete options of worth in the educative pfocess. Such

options refer here to the rcahty of the "person" of the educatot,

to the rcal goal and history of his growth, to the contents, to the

means required and to the methodology most useful in his growth.

The most incisive options to the second part of the formula are:

o A clear auareness ol the last end. Don Bosco's pedagogy

presents with insistence the true religious end of life; the ultimate

end is the focal point of his education. It is clear, concise in its

psoreulsse."n6tat"ioTnh.is"Tishneoot nolnylyaitmheopfritnhceipOalraatiomrybiust

the

salvation of

only motive

6 lvlB 9, p. 295

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for my coming here." ue We know quite well the deep conviction

of Don Bosco that without "religion" (in its full sense of the

word) true human progress is not attained.

Now, in the practical order of art, the Preventive System

is an "att", the end entails the same function of principles in

the speculative order. The forgetting of the end of education-

one of the erroneous and incomplete views of today-is cause of

deviation, of incompetence and one-sidedness. This is one of the

great dangers of our time. Our society which, in fact, has made

such technical progress is accused by thoughtful men, even un-

believers, as being decadent because it stresses more the means

than the end, and so, dangerously deviates with regard to human

growth of the person and society.

Don Bosco wished to formulate and have present the clear

objective of the supreme end of one's existence. He wished to

introduce its true light and its force in the educational merhod.

o An educational process directed. positiuely toward Christ.

If the salesian practise is bom and is nourished by pastoral charity

and tends explicitly and loyally towards salvation of redemption,

it will find all its motives and inspirations in Christ and in His

Gospel.

At this point christian values and principles have great

importance and effect in the Salesian System.

It is worthy of note that this christian objective of the educa-

tional formula is a requirement ol a "oalid. premise" or ratber of

tbe objectiaity of banan history, even if such a ,,premise,, is

not known or recognized by all, and not simply the result of a

religious cultural structure which could by now be an anachronism.

In the educational process as conceived so realistically in the

Preventive System the "ecclesial" dimension is approximately

considered. It does not develop only the individual religious

o MB 7, p. 504

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experience but tbe coflcrete and cornmunitarian experience ol the

Churcb with all the elements which constitute the community of

constitute love, of faith and of cult fot the service of human sal-

vation.

A prominent place is given to the life of the sacraments and

liturgy with a special stress on the pedagogy ol "Penance" and

"Eucbarist" in"Mariaru Climate." These; indeed, after Vatican II

and in view of the cultural changes need a futther deepening and

ufgent renewal,

A demanding task in this field is that of "catechesis" which

explains the gospel and introduces one into the life of the

Church. In all of this it brings a strong "se?trse of aocational

direction" to each conscience and the aim of an active and personal

participation in the Mystery of Christ.

Here, too, "sanctity" is the expression of the "System." If

the motive of pastoral charity made Don Bosco the "Educator

Saint", by analogy the right direction to Christ of the salesian

educational method made Dominic Savio the "Educated Saint,"

In the Church and in the world the Preventive System is

the genuine pedagogy of sanctity-one the part of the educatot

who completely lives it; on the part of the pupil who absorbs

the Gospel teachings. Sanctity is the true and inevitable goal of

our history.

It is worthy of note that Don Bosco and Dominic Savio

are not saints who have worked in the field of education but

tJ:ey are saints simply because they have camied out this educat-

ional "System." Their sanctity might be considered a lesson

which has been given by the Holy Spitit. The environment of

Valdocco at the time of Domenic Savio lead us:

not only to the treshold, but to the full view of mystical

experience, It brings us to a pentecostal climate, to a

collective experience of the Holy Spirit. The family

spirit which Don Bosco generated is that of spiritual

consanguinity. The educatot ransmits life filled with

4.7 Page 37

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union of God through life of grace in the Church. rc

The original and bold concept of "youthful sanctity" is in-

trinsic in the art of. education for Don Bosco. His great insight

was not only not to disappoint the deep-seated aspirations of the

young-need of life, of expansion, of joy, of liberty, of the futu-

re-but to have brought gradually and realistically the same

youngsters to taste that only the "life of grace", that is, friendship

of Christ, which is perennial joy. Their authentic ideals became

reaTized and actualized: "\\7e make sanctity consist in being always

cheerful." 7r

The Preventive System invites us, therefote, to rethink and

to renew for today the same concept of "sanctity", its presence

in the history of man, its indispensability of the process of human-

ization. It invites us to consider Don Bosco as the "Teacher of

youthful sanctity." 72

On the question of this genuine christian concept it is note-

worthy to hear the chapter:

A similar plan in its contents, in its goals, in its style,

may also be proposed and offered to those who do not

share our vision of the world and who do not share

our faith... Applied with flexibility, gradualness and a

sincere respect for the human and religious values of

the cultures and religions of our charges, it can yield

abundant fruits on the eductational level, it can create

friendship and promote affection from pupils and past

pupils, it unleashes great energies of good, and in more

than a few cases lays the foundation for an open path

of convetsion to the christian faith.13

70 Prtrn Srnlra, Don Bosco in History. YoL 2., p. 472.

?r MB 5, p. )56.

" Pnrsn SrEuA, Spiritaal Values ol 'Conpanion of Youtb' of St. Jobn

Bosco,nRGomCe2, L79N6o0.,

91.

728,

4.8 Page 38

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o Critical thinking and a sense of duty in tbe light ol tbe

Gospel. At a time of pluralism, as in our days, it is necessary

to teach the youngsters to think critically so as to pick out auth-

entic values and also to unmask certain cultural influences which

aia the media impose and overwhelm the young.

The Iight of faith is, indeed, the only sure guide that can

objectively lead the mind tluough th. snare of false ideologies.

The Euangelii Nurutiandi states:

To educate by evangelaing (means) that the power of

the Gospel reaches and nearly upsets the judgments,

set values, points of interest, set ideas, inspfuational

sources and human models which are in control with

the 'S7ord of God and with the plan of salvation. Tn

The true value of education and of authentic culture is: to

free the young ones, to make them conscious of their ffue rights

and duties, and awarc of the right events of their day; to make

them capable of self-determination and cooperation.

Educating in this manner results in a culture which is open

and enriches itself not only by the production of new ideas and

new life but, above uJI., by grving society a contribution of indi-

viduals who are courageous beaters of critical thinking and good

conduct.

"Have the courage of your faith and of yout convictions.

Do not fear. God is with the Church all days even to the end

of time. It is up to the wicked to fear the good and not the

good to fear the wicked," said Don Bosco.Ts

In the pedagogy of Don Bosco rigbt conducr holds a pro-

minent place. He always insisted on gentle persuasion, on "a

sense of duty", on "discipline" in life and on the "spitit of

sacrifice."

7a Eaangelii Nuntiand.i No. 19.

7s MB 6, p. 482.

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The meaning of liberty and one's rights can be consonant

to the Gospel only if it is accompanied by a claity and insistence

in the practise either of the spirit of sacrifice of one's duties.

At the epicenter of christianity is Christ crucified!

A great politician of our day, AIdo Modo, who has given

witness with his life to the values of a democracy, has stated

that " a country will not save itself; the season of rights and

liberty will be passing, if (in that country) a new sense of duty

is not born."

To educate "by evangelizing" implies, therefore, a concrete

option with new obligations for a revision from the very foun-

dations of our educational work.

In co-ncluTshioenW, oarnd.inodlisGpoedn,sabbyleitsonpatitounre,toreaaessaulsreanthdeinetedrupcealltaiotensa.l

process is to respect the specific nature of the Gospel and of

faith.

The \\U7ord of God is not, narurally speaking, a human devel-

opment or an answer to a problem. It is instead an initiative

of God, a grtt, an interpellation, a calling, a request. The Gospel

before answeting, questions.

The educator must be aware and loyal to this lford of

God. His main concern in adjusting to the conditions of the

young, is not to ignore or oppose the pastoral mission of "prophet"

of the Gospel.

Harmony and mutual understanding of the ru/o aspects

demand reflection, renewal and loyalty.

Hence, as the pedagogy of the Preventive System rests on

the fundamental option of pastoral concern, the salesian must

constantly present the teachings of the faith unblemished. \\7ith

personal gifts and abilities he must guide his charges according

to the examples and teachings of Christ who intetcedes and calls

as the Lord of history.

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5. The Salesian Sfile

Permit me some concluding observations. The renewal of

the Preventive System according to a living tradition is linked

to some conditions of community sharing which appear quite

simple yet caffy potential educational advantages.

In its entirety these constitute "the salesian style" which

gives tone and form to our work. We now choose the main

features to underline some concrete points which need to be

valuated and renewed.

5.1 Typical characteristics

Among the chief characteristic qualities of the Preventive

System are the following:

o Assrsleucr. It needs to be interpreted in the light of

the present conditions of the young and according to educational

needs. Being present among the young, taking active pam in

their activities and apostolic programs, counseling them in their

problems, all this is the essence of assistance. \\We might perhaps

have to overcome the habit of considering its disciplinary aspect

in favor of the example of the "otatory."

To favor such a view we might have to analyze the delicate

concept of "pfevention".

Don Bosco had a clear insight into the methods aimed to

repress and remedy damages of a negative experience and srained

himself with directed love to cultivate the seeds of the good to

prevent the experiences of the disfigured. He chose the second

way; namely, his "System" which he wished to be called "Pre-

ventive." It is entirely directed to the proper growth with the

grace of God, of youth's potentials so that with human possibility,

they can be kept from every sin which impinge on their human

frailty.

5 Pages 41-50

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5.1 Page 41

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To attain this he lived entirely among the youngsters so

that by his presence he could be a witness to a life of grace and

he was concerned to create an environment of respect for it. Here

is a point upon which it is necessary f.or us to meditate upon, if

we wish to relive genuine salesian style.

a Creating an Educational Enairon?lent. Our manner of

dealing with the young is not based solely on one to one basis.

\\7e believe that the surroundings can be a vehicle for values.

The necessity of an environment was for Don Bosco one of the

first pastoral accomplishments. It definitely became a focal point

so that we cannot conceive salesian educational action without

considering the quality of surroundings.

o Formation of tbe Educatiae Cornmunity. In educational

communities it is necessary to know how to involve all those res-

ponsible and to inspire them with the ideals of Don Bosco. The

ever increasing number of lay persons offers us an opportunity

to hand on the wealth we possess. At the same time there is a

risk of losing our identity if we do not seriously handle our

assigned roles of "animatofs". The educative community is, in

the first place, the community of the young inspired by the edu-

cators. \\When speaking of a community for youngsters this means

to have created with them and in their midst a means of com-

munication and friendship; to have placed in their view common

objectives. ft means to have let them share and participate in

the educative process and not only be recipients of our apostolic

and professional expertise.

a Youth Groups and Mouements. The community experien-

ce opens up a world of possibilities and values. lWe must not be

surprised that our Father with his keen intuition and wisdom

reached such definite and fundamental conclusions. The GC 21

has demostrated a sensibility on this point confronted by a twofold

phenomena: the collapse of traditional groupings (associazionismo)

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and the lack of a substitute agent sufficiently forceful to assume

the characteristics of salesian spirituality. Evidently we are not

dealing here with founding a movement which would be a sign

of force in a particular circumstance. Rather to offer to the young

an intense experience of the community of faith and commitment

in favor of others with sufficient doctrinal support and organized

to assufe gfowth continuity.

5.2 Urgency ol Inaentiueness

The salesian style is not once and for all; it is rather a task

of sound creativity, above all. at a time of cultural transition.

It is exactly with this in view that we have chosen this

subject matter, subtle and demanding, for this letter.

One of the aims of the GC 21, which I consider quite ut-

gent, is the following:

Every province (or group of provinces) will draw up

an educational plan suited to local conditions as a basis

for programming and evaluating its various works in

line with the basic options made by the Congtegation:

oratories, youth centers, day and boarding schools, resid-

ences for students and artisans, parishes, missions.T'

To devise a program of such responsibility it is indispensable

to think "salesianly." Educational sciences afe not enough, not

faith alone, and not even one's experience which has become more

or less uncritical with the passing of yeats and has now been

called to be renewed by the Council and two General Chapters.

The fact that the GC 2L speaks of an environemnt so diffe-

rcn1-f16rn the oratory to schools, from parishes to the 6i5si61s-

ought to indicate that it is a completely different criterion or a

spirit which u/e must know how to reactivate rather than have

'5 GC 2l No. 105.

5.3 Page 43

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a body of rules for this or that structure even if the following

of a spirit becomes incarnated in precise directives and obligations.

The carrying out of the project demands that we face a

"united front" subject to various applications.

To rewrite in synthesis the ideas and practises of the Prev-

entive System in such a way that none of its spirit is lost or

obscured it a task which requires tuning in on the chatism of

the Founder and a careful reading of the signs of the times. One

of the practical results of the session has been that this synthesis

may involve not only some who are competent ot the qualified or

cthoomsme unnaittuyr.aTlly

interested in such

\\7e will need to

a subject but

refresh what

every confrere and

we abeady know

and to admire what is new. IDTe will need to recover what we

have abandoned; discovet dimensions emerging from our reflect-

ions and arive at a deeper and richer synthesis which will direct

us in our commitment of evangelization and our search of unity

in our life of religious apostles.

All levels of responsibility are called upon to take part in

this movement. The GC 2l states:

The provincial, the ptovincial confetences and the reg-

ional Councillor, will promote meetings, study days or

weeks, discussions, exchanges of educational and pastoral

experiences, which will eventually be open also to

teachers and educators who do not belong to the sale-

sian family, for the purpose of spreading the knowledge

of Don Bosco's preventive system, encouraging research

into it, and furthering its updated implementations,

taking carefully into account the conditions of youth and

working-class people in the local environment as well

as the valid conributions of modern anthropological

and pedagogical sciences. 78

NGC2I

ilGC2L

No.

571

105

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-44

To this end it will be of help to take advantage of expertise

assistance for the Depratment of the Youth Apostolate which

during the coming years will direct its service to the educational

and pastoral phase of the salesian apostolate.

5.3 Practical Aspects ol Cornrnitrnent

Therefore, the carrying out of a project involving a commu-

nity means to call together individuals for study and reflection,

to focus attention on the social and ecclesial phase of our work,

to search with creativity ways and solutions of situations. It

means to unite the community with a unified criterion to which

all members can aspire and by which each can recognize one

another. It means to assure integrity and to free ourselves from

sectionalism and improvisation.

The project will be the result of our study on the Preventive

System and of our efforts in the application of the actual situation.

A similar task of rediscovering ought to reonforce the now

operative programs in three areas:

o Tnp FoRMATToN oF ouR rERSoNNEL. Our personnel

ought to value, assimilate and deepen the pedagogical and pastoral

aims of Don Bosco's Project. It ought to reflect on the cultural

mentality attuned to pedagogical, pastoral and spiritual subject

matters. A genuine renewal of the Preventive System will result

if the above aims are practised in formative communities of the

young confreres, courses of ongoing formation and in the updating

of every house of the province.

a THe sALESTAN "ANTMAToR" oF LAy HELrERS. Experien-

ces of these past years show that a clear and definite presentation

of principles guiding our salesian pedagogy does much to impress

itself on the minds of our helpers, since they are well aware of

the special richness of the spirit of Don Bosco. They realize that

they are closely involved in the work of education and they have

a sense of belonging.

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O TUB STUDYING AND EXPANDING OF SALESIAN PEDAGOGY.

The study and spreading of salesian pedagogy on the part of our

professional educators and researchem in out Centers of Study is

a must,

In his own days Don Bosco recommended that writings

which made known our spirit and whicfi presented our unique

type of apostolic action be made known.

Dear Confreres, we have dealt with a topic which is indeed

at the center of out salesian identity on levels nearest to our

daily practical life. To dedicate ourselves to its reactivation is a

question of life. Already Don Bosco in September 1884 spoke

befoqe the Superior "Chaptef": "Every effort and every plan

must be used to introduce and put into practise the pfeventive

system in our houses... The advantages which accrue from its

practise are incalculable for souls and glory of God." D

These are difficult days for our young people. The hierarchy,

especially in the last synod of bishops, was well aware of the

problem. It asked that further research and greater effotts be

made in behalf of the youth of today. \\We have been given by

the Lord, through the initiative of Mary, a special charism to

bring to the Church in this field. The recent Pope Paul IV has

reminded us with insistent concern.

Be of good heart. Let us apply ourselves wholeheartedly to

use the gift we have received. "'We afe not dealing with a new

pedagogical theory, but to know and understand a model of the

of education," Fr. B. Fascie would say.

\\7e must be "artists" capable of recreating the scenes of

friendship and holiness which were seen at the Oratory of Val-

docco especialTy at the time of Don Bosco and Domenic Savio.

This, in essence, is the problem of salesian sanctity. If we

do not grow in the practise of the Preventive System, we shall

not be faithful to our vocation. Our Family is likewise involved.

n I'IIB 17, p. L97

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-46-

If we do not revitalize the Preventive Sytem, we shall fall into

a kind of anonymity which will never justify our existence among

the various ecclesial groups.

Let us ask Mary Help of Christians two great favors for

the Congregation and our entire Family. One, the ability to

maintain a harmonious and creatiue tautness betueen two poles

of the Preventive System; namely, the one the "pastoral" thrust

of our activity; the other a well selected "pedagogy" and "educa-

tional" competence.

Second, a goodness of heart which can season our style of

life and of dealings with boys and the young with that goodness

which Don Bosco would say: "It is not enough to 'love', but to

'be loved' by the boys." e

May the saintly pastor, Pope Paul VI, follow us from heaven

with his loving friendship that we be indeed genial aposrles and

wise disciples.

I wish each of you every good and I assure you my prayers.

Let us togethff seek to let this treasure of Don Bosco bear

abundant results. Our boys and youngsrers have a right. All

the People of God will benefit therefrom.

Affectionately yours,

Fr. Ecrnro Vlcend

Rector Maior

e MB 17, pp. lll-LL2.

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2. COMMUNICATIONS

f, New Provincials

The Rector Major according to Art. 169 of the Constitutions

has appointed the following provincials for:

Province of Liguria-Toscany

Province of Southem Italy

Province of Navara

Province of North Belgium

Province of South Belgium

Province of C6rdoba (Spain)

Province of Ktiln (Germany)

Province of L6& (Poland)

Province of Austria

Province of Middle Orient

Province of Central Africa

Province of '$7est fndies

Fr. EIio TonnrcrANr

Fr. Alphonse Ar.reNo

Fr. Louis BosoNr

Fr. Henry Brr,svreNs

Fr. Michael Doutnrr-urNcNr,

Fr. Domenic GoNzelrz

Fr. Joseph OppBn

Fr. Adalbert Szurczvusrr

Fr. Louis Scrrvenz

Fr. Victor Pozzo

Fr. Albert Sesan

Fr. Henry Mr,lr,eNo

2. New Delegates of Rector Maior

According to the deliberations of the GC 21, Nos.4i0-411 (Con-

stitutions t64 C and D), the Rector Major has erected and named

the Generalate, "Blessed Michael Rua." The house is a delegation

directly dependent upon him. The delegate is Fr. Angelo Bianco.

Fr. Charles Colli has been appointed delegate of the P.A.S.

5.8 Page 48

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48-

3. Vicar of the Rector Maior for the lnstitute of the Daughters

of Mary Help of Ghristians

Fr. Joseph Sangalli former provincial of the Liguria-Tuscan

Province has been nominated Vicar for the Institute of the Daughters

of Mary Help of Christians.

4. Secular lnstitute of Volunteers of Don Bosco meet with

Pontifical Approval

A family news item which will certainly please all. On July 21,

1978, Pope Paul VI with his signature approved the erection of the

Secular Institute of the Volunteers of Don Bosco (V.D.B.) to a Se-

cular Institute thus giving pontifical approval to its constitutions.

The decree of the S.C.R.I.S. was signed on Augusr 5, 1978.

This signature of Pope Paul VI was one of his last. His last

hand-writing gave wimess to a last gift, a grand gift of this pope

to the Salesian Family, abeady so privileged by Paul IV with tokens

of benevolence.

$7ith this act of the Holy Father a project begun by the Servant

of God, Fr. Philip Rinaldi, in 1.9L7, as a special experience and

mission of charity in the Church according to the spirit of Don Bosco,

terminated.

Now the fnstitute of VDB has the same rights as the SDBs and

FMAs in its consecratior, lsalized and lived by them. This conse-

cration is lived by the VDBs in the world.

The Salesian Bulletin in numerous issues has shown that their

way of life is not simply being in the world, but adopting all the

authentic values so as to redirect them to the greater glory of God.

\\)7ith a certainty and intensity that follows from a life consecrated by

evangelical counsels they pursue the Creator's plan of action,

The VDBs rcahze that with the recognition by the Apostolic

See everything is not sompletely accomplished. In fact, they now

renew witl greater effort and responsibility their commitment in the

Church and the Salesian Family.

For this reason they request our prayers and we fuatetnally

promise and assure them as well a full spiritual cooperation.

5.9 Page 49

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-49

5. Fraternal Solidarity (26th report)

a ) CoNrnrnurrNc Sounces ( 2-1 8-1 978

8\\

-9-8-197

AuBnrce

'West Indies

United States, East

United States, West

432,500

346,000

g,ooo,oo0

Asre

Japan (for Lo&, Poland)

India, Gauhati

India, Madras

Thailand

5,ooo,o00

500,000

2,ooo,o00

1,000,000

EunopB

Belgium, North

Belgium, South

Italy, Central

Italy, Liguria

Italy, South

Italy, Navara

Italy, Rome

Italy Sub-alpine

Italy, St. Mark (Udine)

Italy, Motherhouse, Turin

Italy, Pontifical Salesian University

A conlrere

Total offering frorn 2-18-1978-9-8-1978

Casb on harud

Total amount for distribution

18,480,000

392,000

1,000,000

3oo,ooo

1,000,000

5,r00,000

1,000,000

5,000,000

1,576,000

5oo,ooo

300,000

488,800

53,6L5,457

)2,062

53,647,519

5.10 Page 50

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-r0-

b) DrsrunsEMENr (2-18-L97 8-9-8-1978)

Refund by Departmenr (Cf. ASC. 289 p. 48)

L. ,00,000

Arnrca

Africa, Central, Zaire for the dispossessed

Egypt, Cairo for the dispossessed

Egypt, Cairo for social work of FMAs

Etiopia, Adigrat for the poor

Rhodesia, Salisbury for a catechetical school

South Africa and Swaziland, for the poor and

dispossessed

Tanzania, Sumbawanga, fot a catechetical school

1,000,000

500,000

1,45o,ooo

88,000

L,000,000

107,000

AnaBnrca

Dominican Republic, West Indies for the

dispossessed

Haiti, !7est Indies for the dispossessed

Argentina, for a salesian bishop

Bolivia, for the dispossessed

BraziT, Campo Grande for the dispossessed

Brazil, Belo Horizonte for the dispossessed

Brazi, Manaus for the dispossessed

Brazi, Porto Alegre for the dispossessed

Chile, scholarship fund for a confrere

Chile, for the dispossessed

Chile, Linare, for the construction of a chapel

Colombia, Bogot), for the dispossessed

Ecuador, Chigoaza, for the needs of a mission

Ecuador, IvIiazal, for the needs of a mission

Ecuador, Rocafuerte, for a catechetical supplies

Ecuadot, Yaupi, for the mission (from Navara

province)

Ecuador, for the dispossessed

Mexico, Guadalajara for the dispossessed

1,ooo,ooo

1,73,000

L,ooo,ooo

L,o0o,ooo

1,000,000

1,ooo,ooo

1,r00,000

L,ooo,oo0

1,ooo,ooo

1,000,000

100,000

500,000

1,500,000

500,000

2,000,000

1,000,000

6 Pages 51-60

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Peru, Huancayo, fot a vehicle

Peru, for medical help to a confrere

Peru, for catechetical supplies

Peru, for the dispossessed

Venezuela, S. Fernando de Atabapo, for the

mission (from Navara province)

L. 1,000,000

500,000

300,000

1,000,000

Soo,ooo

Asrn

Korea, for the dispossessed and other needs

Lebanon, to the Secretariate, Vatican City for

refugees

Lebanon, El Hussun, to the Secretariate, Va-

tican City for refugees

India, Bombay, f.or the poor

India, Calcutta, Bangoan, for a parish shall

India, Calcutta, for the refugees of Bengala

India, Calcutta, for the dispossessed

India, Calcutta, for the refugees in slums of

New Delhi

India, Gauhati, Manipur, for religious publi-

cations

India, Gauhati, Pyndengrei, for poor resident

students

India, Gauhati, Shillong, to the studentate for

building in behalf of the poor

India, Gauhati, Shillong to FMAs

India, Gauhati, Umsolhait, for rebuilding

houses desmoyed by fire

India, Madras, Cochin, for the dispossessed

India, Madras, Brahamanakodur, for the poor

India, Ma&as, Kodambakkam, to FMAs

India, Madras, Poonamallee, for various needs

India, Madras, Veeralur, for a village in dire

needs

Philipines, Cebil, for technical school equipment

Philippines, Tondo

1,085,000

1,000,000

2,000,000

1r0,000

1,ooo,o00

1,50o,000

1,ooo,o0o

1,370,000

1,000,000

L,ooo,ooo

1,080,000

,80,000

1,8oo,oo0

1,000,000

250,000

760,000

50,000

500,000

1,3oo,ooo

175,000

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Philippines for the dispossessed

Thailand, Bangkok, for technical school equip-

ment

L. 1,000,000

1,000,000

Eunopr

Italy, Assisi, for the Poor Clare, one of their

missions

Italy, Ostia, to the EMAs for the dispossessed

Italy, Sardinia, Nuraminis, for a non-salesian

parish

Poland, Lodz, f.or the construction of a c-hurch

(Japanese province)

Total Sum (lrorn 2-18-1.978-9-8-1978)

Casb on hand

GBNrnel Toter

500,000

,00,000

1,000,000

5,000,000

53,3L8,275

329,244

5r,647,5L9

c) Gner.,n rorAr, oF FRATERNAL soLIDARITy

Sam receoide to 9-8-1978

Sums distributed to 9-8-1978

Casb on band

679,9L0,708

679,581,464

329,244

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3. ACTIVITIES OF THE SUPERIOB COUNCIL

L. During the period immediately following the conclusion of

the 2lst General Chapter the members of the Superior Council occupied

themselves with the business afLats of the chapter. The Superior

Council met at the Generalate from April 11 to June 24. This was

the first session of the new Council. The work load was tense and

heavy. Only a summary of its proceedings can be given here.

After an informative briefing by the Regional Councillors, the

first contact with their respective regions, the Rector Major and the

Superior Council studied collegially the Acts of the 21st General

Chapter. Their study on the "focal points" was to initiate action for

"animators" and leaders on the results of the deliberations of the

chapter, especially those which were left by the General Chaptet to

the responsibility of the Superior Council.

The study of each problem was approached in two phases: a

special sqmmittee of the council members prepared a working paper

on a definite topic; the topic uras then discussed at a full session to

add the final touches to the solution and manner of aproach.

In this background fout in-depth issues of the General Chapter

were studied:

a) the primacy of religious spirit to make our vocation as bearers

of the Gospel possible;

b) the bringing of the Gospel to youth according to the edu-

cative and pastoral salesian mission;

c) the "animation" of the Salesian Family;

/) Salesian Formation, a priority of a genuine renewal embracing

the entire period of the salesian vocation.

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At the same time, aftet a careful examination of the results of

the consultations as provided by the Constitutions, the Council pro-

ceeded to the appointment of assignments. The list of the assignments

is listed in this issue of the Acts of the Council.

A special and delicate task of this first session has been the

deepening of the "political" phase of the general obiectives and of

the methods of procedure of eacJr department. This deepening extended

to tle various "organs", hence, a search and choice of indispensable

helpers not only for the deparments but also of secretaries, office and

service personnel which comprise the Generalate. This entire complex

has been called to serve the Congregation.

The Rector Major desired that this first session of the council

be terminated by a spiritual retreat. This was a fitting manner to

bring to a close a fraternal and peaceful garhering of the Superiors

around the Rector Major. In this manner, too, the members of the

Superior Council got to know each other better and were better disposed

in the presence of Our Lord to carry out the mandate placed upon

them for the good of the Congregation.

2. Department for Salesian Formation

The first few months after the 2Lst General Chapter were ser

aside by ,1r" 6oolcillor and the few members of his team to the study

of the Chapter Documents. The Councillor of Formation and the

staff of the deparment searched to determine precisely the various

tasks left to the Department of Salesian Formation by the chapter.

The results of such findings which represented a unified whole

were presented to the Superior Council which approved them in

principle.

These results dealt with:

a) Assisting and "animating" Centers of spiritual renewal

(ongoing formation);

D) Sensitizing tJre confreres to the task of developing ongoing

formation;

c) Publications to be issued;

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l) Formation and "animation" of the salesian coadjutor broth'

ers;

e) Work on a "Ratio Institutionis" and "Ratio Studiorum"l

l) Studies which the 2Lst General Chapter has asked to be

completed;

g) Centers of formation; communities of formation;

D) Rules of study and cultural formation;

l) Preparation of trained personnel;

l) \\7eeks of study for Salesian Spirituality. A program in colla-

boration with the Departments of Youth Apostolate, Missions and

Salesian Family.

In this manner the staff of the Department was completed. The

results and findings were reac-hed in a collegial spirit; concrete pro-

posals were presented to the Rectot Major, Regional Superiors and

other members of the Superior Council.

As far as the "Ratio Institutionis" and the "Ratio Studiorum" a

rough draft has been prepared for the end of October. This rough

draft in under consultive consideration and will be ready for final

edition.

During this same period the Councillot of Formation, Fr. Juvenal

Dho, made his first contacts with the confteres of the two Polish

provinces; he met with the rectors of the provinces of Ma&id and

Barcelona at the end of July.

He returned to Spain to meet with those in charge of formation.

From September 24 to J0 he met for a week with those responsible

for formation in the areas of Bogota, novitiate at Medellin and

Quito (The Pacific Region).

The following members comptise the department:

Fr. Peter Bnoccenpo

Fr. Louis Dr Fronr

Fr. John Bennorno

Fr. Donatus Ver-rNtrxr

Coad. Bro. Renatus Rovrelnr

Fr. Arnold Pponrnr

Fr. Eugene PruNett, secretary.

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{

3. Department of Youth Apostolate

From March to November the Councillor for Youth Aposrolare,

Fr. John Vecchi, made his first conracts and acquaintances with the

Spanish and Polish provinces. He took part in the inter-provincial

meetings of directors in Italy and Spain on the subject matter of

the chapter which pertain to his field as "animator.',

During the month of October at the suggestion of the Rector

Major, Fr. J. Vecchi visited the Orient ro meet with the confreres of

Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Philippines and India. Under the

auspices of the provincial conference of Italy, he held a meeting with

the "animators" of the Educational Salesian Project. The lines of

approach by the deparrment was looked into. The following comprise

the staff of the department at the Generalate, Rome:

Fr. Hyacinth Aucrt,lo, secretary

Fr. Charles Boncrtrr

Fr. Viliam BoNecrr.r.r

Fr. Jesris Mnrner.

Fr. Celestine Rrvr,ne

4. Department of the Missions

1.1 The missionary ideal is much alive today among our confre-

res. Many have volunteered. In the first months of. 1978,55 requests

were made: 23 priests, 1L coadjutor brothers,2L clerics in formation.

1.2 To date the missionary expedition comprises 44 (p. 28; c.b.

8; cl. 8). Nineteen confreres (p. 10; c.b. 5; cl. 4) of the 55 requests

will make up the expedition.

2.1 Of the 44 missionaries on rhe approved list for L978, 17

(p. 13; c. b, 2; cl. 2) have reached their mission fields.

2.2 A group of 13 missionaries (p. 8; c. b. L; cl. 4) under the

direction of Fr. Anthony Smit, a member of the department, are

pursuing a course in preparation for their apostolate. The course

began on September 4 and will be completed on October 1 with the

ceremony at Valdocco with the reception of the crucifix.

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2.3 Ve hope that the missionaries of the 1978 expedition will

reach their mission fields before the end of the year notwithstanding

difficulties of various kinds.

3.1 Vhile singling out the generosity of the confreres who leave

for the missions and the provinces which offer them to the Congre-

gation, we call your attention to the great need of personnel at this

time for the missions. Every sacrifice we make for the missions will

result in high interests in the Kingdom of God.

3.2 Yery many requests for personnel from bishops, especially

from Africa reach the desk of the Rector Major. The answers to

these constant requests which the 21st General Chapter has responded

depend on tlre availability of each confrere who wishes ro volunteer

for the missions.

3.3 Three Regional Councillors are contacring bishops in some

ten African countries to study the possibilities of missionary fields.

On their return the coucillors will present their reports to the Superior

Council. On the basis of these reports our missionary program for

Africa in the following years will be determined.

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4. DOCUMENTS

l. Text of Telegram Sent on the Death of His Holiness Paul Vl,

August 7,7978

The Salesians of Don Bosco with deep filial emotion participate

in the loss of the Church in the sorrowful death of Pope Paul VI, a

great Prophet of the Gospel in our day, Proponent of peace for

humanity, courageous Guide of ecclesial life, Teacher of religious

renewal, well loved Father and generous towatds our humble Salesian

Family.

Fr. Ecroro Vrcexd

Rector Major

Answer to Telegram

Sincerest thanks for expressions of condolences in behalf of

deceased Holy Pontiff Paul Sixth accompanied by special fervent

suffrages.

Cardinal Vrr.ror

Camerlengo

2. Text of Telegram Sent for Election of His Holiness John Paul I

With joy and enthusiasm, in the name of my Salesian confreres I

present sincerest congratulations, total loyalty as Don Bosco, obedient

affection and complete collaboration to new providential Popb John

Paul I.

Fr. Ecroro Vrceud

Rector Major

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Answer to Telegram

His Holiness gratefully acknowledges message sent in spirit of

prayer in union with circumstances of elevation to His Ponti.ficate

paternally grants and in authentic fidelity of vocation for complete

dedication to Christ and Church while imparting cordially apostolic

blessing supplicating abundant heavenly blessings.

Cardinal Vnror

Camerlengo

3. Letter of the Rector Major to His Holiness John Paul I

His Holines JoHu Peul I

Vatican City

September 5, 1978

Most Holy Fat}er;

The Salesians of Don Bosco rejoice in your election to the Office

of Peter.

Our Saintly founder has transfused into our hearts a filial love

which makes us feel humble in belonging to the Family of the Pope

in His daily solicitude for the Church and in His living message of

the Gospel to the people and to the young.

His eminence Cardinal Raul Henrique Silva, odr dearest confrere,

has spoken enthusiastically and with great sympathy of yout Person

and your goodness. He has extended your fondest greetings, your

paternal blessing and your request for prayers. n7e feel the need to

express to you, in letter form, our deepest thanks and total loyalty

toget}er with promises of daily prayers in carrying out the commit-

ments of the Gospel.

At the beginning of our Salesian Vocation, the intuition, initia-

tive and love of Pope Pius IX guided and supported Don Bosco in

the delicate work of the Founder. A century later amid the complex-

eties of the wotkings of Vatican II, there was another guide for us,

the clear directives and predilection of another pope, Pope Paul VI

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60-

who has inspired and directed us in the difficult task of our religious

and pastoral renewal.

In this manner with eyes fixed on the Successor of Peter, our

journey-if only one hundred years-has taken place in a serene

and calm atmosphere, in the knowledge of the Church in the faith-

fulness of its First Pastor and Teacher. 'S7e are always mindful of

the heritage of Don Bosco who in 1873 wrote on the occasion of

the definitive approval of our Constitutions: "The fundamental aim

of our Congregation from the very begining, has constantly been to

uphold and defend the authority of the supreme Head of the Church

among the less privileged of society and is a special way of abandoned

youth."

Also in our last General Chapter, finished last February, we

have unanimously renewed our deep loyalty to the Pope.

This loyalty is the expression of a strong and concrete love for

Jesus Christ, to His fascinating paschal mystery, to his history of

salvation in which He has wished to explicitly include the unfailing,

adequate, timely teaching and indispensable ministry of Peter and of

the Apostles.

This tJ-ren, Most Holy Fathet, in the reason and intensity of the

joy and loyalty of the Salesian of Don Bosco to your Pontificate and

Person. Accept our filial wishes of fidelity to service, of docility to

your guidance, of goodness of your fatherliness. You may count upon

our loyalty, on our continued prayers, on our modest and fulI cooper-

ation for the evangelization of the young.

In the name of my confreres scattered throughout the world,

especially those suffering and imprisoned fot the faith, and interpreting

the sentiments of diverse groups belonging to the Salesian Family, I

am happy to present to you the fervent wishes for Your Pontificate

begun under the auspices of St. Gregory the Great, of the maternal

Helper, Mary, the Mothet of the Church.

Fr. Ecrnro VrcaNd

Rector Major

P.S. - Most Holy Father permit me to enclose a check of L.

5,000,000 to be used for good works which Your Holiness deems

worthy,

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4. Text of Telegram Sent on the Death of His Holiness John Paul I

September 29, 1978

While this issue of the "Acts of the Superior Council" was in

pdnt, the world was saddened by the sudden death of Pope John

Paul I.

The Rector Major sent the following telegram to his eminence

Cardinal Charles Confalonieri, Dean of the Sacred College.

Cardinal Charles Confalonieri

Dean of the Sacred College

Vatican City

The Salesian Congregation partakes in the universal sorrow of

the sudden death of Pope John Paul I. It extends sincerest condo-

lences to the Sacred College. The said Congtegation recalls the paternal

goodness, the teachings of the Gospel and the christian humanism in

behalf of people which have distinguished his brief pontificate of

hope in the Church and in the world.

With filial devotion it joins itself to the prayers of all.

Fr. Ecroro Vtcexd

Rector Major

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5. NECROLOGY

*Fr. George Cbemmarappallil

Veliyanad, India, l-21-1961;

Vellore, India, Ll-9-76; 55 yrs; 25 prof.;

22 piest.

At first vice-pastor, the director of Youth Center, pastor in several

missionary parishes. He was always avatlable to the wishes of superiors;

well known for the social activities of his poor people. He was cheerful

and wellJiked; ready to help orhers.

F*r.CPloantarikcikltyD, oIrneolaonadn, {20-1900; t Clonakilty, Ireland, 7-16-1978; 78 yrs; 41

prof.; )4 priest; 7 yrs. rector.

He was a government inspector of agriculture before being called by

God to enter the Salesian Congregation. He was ordained at the age of

44. He immediately took charge of our properties in England and lreland.

In this field he showed competence and ability. His poor health forced him

to the peacefulness of the aspirantate. In this atmosphere by his spiritual

direction of boys and confreres he revealed his spirituality and rare gift of

discetnments of the spirit.

f *FrL. ivTebropronoals,

Dulleban

England,

ll-20-1902;

London, Battersea, England, 6-26-L978, 75

yrs.; 58 prof.; 45 priest.

He was a gifted and energetic teacher. During \\7orld IJTar II he

was chaplain of Royal Air Force, then pastor for several years ar Battersea.

He had a gteat sense of practical know-how; well liked for his indusuious-

ness and understanding. Devote to the Church, to the pope, he labored

zealously with salesian and ecclesial devotion.

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f B* isRboospsigSliotenpeb, eGn eFneorvraa,nd9o-20-1895; Genoa-Quarto, Italy, G20-1978; 82 yrs.;

65 prof.; 55 yrs. priest; First bishop of Krishnagar, India; )4 yrs' bishop of

Shillong, Northeast India; 9 yrs. Archbishop, Titular of Troina.

He lived eight years in Genoa-Quarto (area) but his heart was in

India where he had labored since 1923. In that yeat he had headed the

first novices destined for the new mission of Assam. For a few years he

was the active and prudent Master of Novices and rector of Salesian in

formation. h 1934 he was chosen bishop of Krishnaga4 a year after

bishop of Shillong where for 30 years he devoted himself to pastoral work.

The good and patient pastor visited the communities of his field. He

visited his missionary confreres, always solicitous and concerned for native

vocations. Today the florishing christian life of Assam, the growth of

native vocations, the Congregation of "Sisters of Mary Help of Christians"

founded by him, the erection of six diocese with Shillong as the provin-

cial see, bear witness to the zeal of this great bishop. The blessings of

God have rewarded his faith, his sacrifices and self-dedication to the wel-

fare of souls.

t *FrT. eEmdpwleamrdoreG,reIyreland, 8-25-1890; Cape Town, 54L978; 88 yrs; 68 prof.;

60 yrs. priest.

He lived in the greater part of his life in Gape Town. His apostolic

work centered on alumni and cooperators; his dynamism and cheerfulness

were remarkable. He bore his heavy cross of suffering during his last yeats

with deep piety and faith, and his habirual smile.

Fr. Daniel McKeown

" f Glasgow, Scotland, 7-ll-1903; London, Battersea, England, 6-25-1978; 74 yrs.;

49 prot.; 41 priest.

He lived the greater part of his salesian life at our school of Battersea.

He was well tiked for his dedication to the education of the young; sought

out as a preacher and confessor. He was staightfoward, well-balanced

and faithful to his duties. God called him during a last heart attack.

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64-

Bro. Xauier Singaraj

f *' Kadambady, Tamil-India, 2-LGl922; Chetpet, lndia, 4-L5-1978; 56 yrs.;

3) prol.

He worked in various houses of the Madras province as a "factotum."

He was always cheerful in his vocation, available and deeply humble. He

nourished a filial and deep devotion to the Virgin Mary. His sudden death

which deepely moved all the confreres, showed the esteem in which he

was held by the confreres.

Fr. Alpboruse Straub

f "" Kitzinger, Gerrnany, 11-10-1904; Rosemead, California, IJSA, 2-2)-1978; 74

yrs.; 52 prof.; 42 priest.

He entered the Congregation in his twenties. He left for California in

1927 with the first group of confreres to begin the San Francisco province.

He was ordained in Turin. His apostolic labors were dedicated to the parish

apostolate where his gift for languages served him in good stead. He

loved to work with the various groups of altar boys. He spent the last

years of his l,ife as a confessor in our schools. In this he was zealous

offering spiritu,al direction; he was always on call for the hearing of

confessions.

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2nd List of 1978

f 1. Coad. AHN Lodovico Toutnai (Bdero) a 83 a.

f 2. Sac. ALCIATI Marco a Neustadt (Germania) a 52 a-

l. f Sac. BALI' Giovanni Panaonhalma (Uneheria) a 85 a.

t 4. Coad. BARONE Rocco Cad:oeira do Gmpo (Brasile) a 68 a,

5. t Sac. BATTISTI Antonio l.anzn Torioese a 59 a.

5. Sac. BOLIVENS Filippo t \\gihiik (Beleio) a 79 a.

f 7. Coad. BERGMANS Alberto Remouchamps (Belgio) a 6) a-

t 8. Sac. BLANDINO Mario Campo Grande (Brasile) a76 a.

t 9. Ch. BRAMBILLA Enrico Torino a Zl a.

f 10. Coad. BRESSANI Virgilio a Trieste a 70 a.

t 11. Sac. CADONI Giuseppe Ggliari a 87 a.

t L2. Sac. CAMBO' Raimondo Barcelona (Spagra) a 85 a-

t 13. Sac. CHEMMARAPPALLIL Giorgio Vellore (India) a 55 a.

f 14. Sac. COTTA Renzo a La Paz (Bolivia) a 52 a.

t 15. Sac. CZIESCHOWITZ Franctsco Santiago (Gle) a 67 a.

f 16. Sac. DALVIT Piero Buenos Ahes (fugentina) a 78 a.

f 17. Sac. DONOVAN Patrizio Clonakilty (Itlanda) a 78 a.

f 18. Coad. DRITETII Attilio Fossano (Cuneo) a 46 a,

t 19. Sac. DLILLEHAN Tommaso Londra (Gran Btetogna) a 75 a.

t 20. Mons. FERRANDO Stefano Genova Quato a 82 a.

t 21. Sac. GAIA Renato Inma (Novara) a 49 a.

t 22. Sac. GANSEMER Michele Bonn (Gemania) a 66 a.

f 21. Sac. GARDIN Marcello Bahia Blanca (fugentna) a 85 a.

t 24. Coad. GENNERO Sebastiano M' Rosa (Aosta) a 4) a.

t 25, Cnad. GIIINTA Rosario Catania a 64 a.

t 26. C.oad. GONZALEZ Alberto Montevideo a 74 a.

t 27. Sac. GREY Edoardo Cape Town (Sud A-frica) a 88 a.

t 28. Coad. I{ASER Corado Schwandorf (Germania) a 23 a,

f 29. Sac. IGLESIAS Fernando Sant Boi de Llobregat (Spapa) a 69 a.

t 10. Sac. JOOSTEN Giuseppe Gent (Belgio) a 65 a.

f 31. Coad. KAPCZAR Giuseppe Hong Kons a 79 a.

t 32. Sac. KLINSKI Augusto Bedino (Germania) a 78 a.

t 13. Sac. KNOOP Antonio Oud-Hevedee (Belgio) a 77 a.

f 34. Coad. LIBERATO Antonino Buenos Aires (fugentina) a 98 a'

t ,5. Coad. LtX Abele St-Georges-sur-Meuse (Belgio) a 54 a.

t 16. Sac. MAREGA Mario Gorizia a 75 a.

t 37. Sac. MARGIARIA Angelo Roma a 80 a.

t 38. Sac. MARIMAN Giuseppe Oud-Heverlee (Belgio) a 76 a.

t 39. Sac. McKEO\\VN Daniele Londra (Gran Bretagna) a 74 a.

f 40. Coad,. MICCOLI Franco Paraa a 54 a.

t 41. Coad. MOLARO Silvio Chieri (Totino) a 69 a.

t 42. Sac. PALET Roberto Mar Del Plata (fugentina) a 6) a'

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43. Sac. PASA Luigi t Forlt a 78 a.

44. Sac. PAVELKA Giuseppe f Roznov p/Radhostem ,Cecoslovacchia) a 62 o.

45. Sac. PAZ Aureliano t Alta Gracia (fugenti,na) a 86 a.

46. Sac. PIIflZA Calogero t Pedara (Gtania) a 89 a.

47. Sac. RAMAEKERS Giuseppe f Helchteren (Bdeio) a 65 a.

48. Sac. RAVAILI Francesco f Catania a 65 a.

49.

50.

Sac.

REIS Muio t Parl de

RODOLFI Giuseppe t

Minas (Brasile) a 81

Vallecrosia (Imperia)

51. Sac. ROMAN Francesco t Porto Alegre (Brasile) a 4l a.

52. Sac. ROCCO Dalmiro f El Paraiso (Buenos Aires-fugentina) a 66 a.

53. Sac. SAGASTAGOITIA Cidllo f Le6n (Spagna) a 9j a.

54. Sac. SCHITAGERL Giovanni f Mtinchen (Germania) a 72 a.

55. C.oad. SINGARAJ Saverio f Chetpet (India) a 56 a.

56. Sac. SIPS Marcello f Huy (Belgio) a 67 a.

57. Sac. STRAIIB Alfonso f Rosemead (USA) a 74 a.

58.

59.

Sac.

STRINGARI Giuseppe f

TRANIER Andrea f La

S. Paulo (Brasile)

Navarre (Francia)

60. Sac. VELLERE Livio f Isola Vicentina (Vicenza) a 45 a^..

61. Sac. VODE' Antonio t Torino a 74 a.

62. C,oad. VAHL Gabriele f Benediktbeuern (Germania) a 82 a.

63. Sac. ZAMIATALA Edmondo t L6d, (Polonia) a 50 a.