WELCOME HANDBOOK NEW ARRIVALS-GBR 2011.11


WELCOME HANDBOOK NEW ARRIVALS-GBR 2011.11



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WELCOME
TO THE SALESIAN GBR PROVINCE
The Province of St. Thomas of Canterbury
A resource for new SDB arrivals

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Our Province Locations
Glasgow
Huyton
Bootle
Bolton
Bollington
Oxford
Chertsey
Farnborough
Battersea
We have 76 SDBs working in nine communities

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Welcome to Our Province!
Dear Confreres,
A sincere word of welcome to Great Britain as brother Salesians. With
your arrival we as a province and you as a missionary begin a new
journey together. On a shared journey we will walk together into the
unknown future of the Salesian charism in this province. Thank you for
your courage and generosity in accepting the challenge of letting go of
the comfort of your own culture to share the search for a new mode of
living Salesian life in our culture.
The months and years ahead mark a time of searching and of
discernment. Strengthened by your presence and the international
connections you carry with you, we can open up for you the challenges
of this new culture for Salesian values. Together we will create a new
space where the charism can find new connections and like wise
stewards we can bring out of our tradition things both old and new for
the good of young people in Great Britain.
At a personal level the months and years ahead are a time of
discernment of your missionary vocation. You will need time to explore
our culture and your reactions to it. Sometimes your mind and your body
may feel quite alien in our culture but you will always be a brother
Salesian even if your discernment leads you onwards to other places for
many are called but few are chosen. So, in these days of discernment
we will give you support the guidance of a Rector and the opportunity to
explore the way that we work with the young. You on your part need to
be honest with us about what you are experiencing and faithful to the
missionary sprit that has inspired this choice. It is only together that we
will hear clearly where the Spirit is leading you.
This welcome booklet contains some of the information you will need to
settle in to your new community. It tells something of the story and
plans for our province. What matters more is that we share more than
information as your discernment moves forward. In the words of St
Francis de Sales we must let heart speak to heart as we walk the
Salesian path into an unknown future.
Fr Martin Coyle SDB

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Our Houses
House
Secondary
school
Parish
Battersea
St John Bosco
College
Wandsworth
Sacred Heart
Battersea
Farnborough
Salesian College
Farnborough
Our Lady Help
of Christians
(Cove) Our Lady
of Lourdes
(Newent)Our
lady of Lourdes
Chertsey
Salesian College
Chertsey
St Anne’s
Primary
School
Sacred Heart
Clapham
Junction
St Patricks
St Anne’s
Other
International
student house
Mission Office.
University
Chaplaincy
Home for older
SDBs
Cowley
Link to Cardinal
Newman School
Our Lady Help Our Lady help of
Social
of Christians
Christians
Communications
Savio House
Chaplaincy support
in All Hallows
St Gregory’s
Parish
Bootle
Savio High School
St James’
St Gregory’s
Bollington
Retreat Centre
and youth
office
All Saints
Bosco House
Rehabilitation
Centre
Huyton
Bolton
Glasgow
Christ The King
School
St Dominic’s
Thornleigh Salesian
College
None
St Andrews
Carntyne
St Benedict’s
St Clare’s
St Dominics
None
Don Bosco
Publications
Provincial
Office.
Home for older
SDBs
St Benedict’s

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SDB PROVINCIAL COUNCIL
NAME
Martin Coyle
Tom Williams
Kieran Anderson
Frank Mageean
David O’Malley
Mervyn Williams
ROLE
Provincial
Provincial Councillor
Provincial Councillor
Provincial Councillor
Vice Provincial
Provincial Economer
Other areas of Provincial responsibility
NAME
Tom Williams
Joseph Brown
Sue MacDonald
Hugh Preston
Kieran Anderson
Sean Murray
Bernard Parkes
RESPONSIBILITY
Coordinator, Child Protection Team
Director, Mission Office
Coordinator for Non-Formal Youth
Work
Delegate for Schools/animator
Delegate for Salesian Parishes
Delegate for Past Pupils
Delegate for Co-operators
Provincial Administration
NAME
Anne-Marie Ginty
Paulene Whyte
Joe Merriman
Patrick Sherlock
Patrick Sherlock
RESPONSIBILITY
Administrator/PA
Administrator/PA (Finance)
Coordinator for justice and peace
Coordinator for Social
communications
Provincial Secretary

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The Origins of GBR Province
In dealing with the special character of the Salesian work in Great Britain one has to
be aware, as was Don Rua, that to implant the Salesian life and work here meant
encountering a totally different culture and tradition to that of the Latin and largely
Catholic culture of Italy, Spain or South America. England saw itself as Protestant
and the predominant world power in the late 19th century. Almost as a corollary it
saw Catholicism and Italian culture as both foreign and inferior. Cardinal Cagliero
recounted that it was easier to engage with the Indians of Patagonia than with the
street boys of Battersea who stoned this strange foreign cleric dressed in a long
black robe when he came for the opening of the Sacred Heart Church in 1893.
Among the English Catholic community, the Salesians were late arrivals. They lacked
the aristocratic credentials of the older religious orders in England like the
Benedictines who could trace their lineage back to St Augustine of Canterbury and
the Conversion of England, or the heroic martyr tradition of the English Jesuits with
their famous public schools that had prepared the Catholic elite for 300 years. The
older orders were different from the Salesians not only in their traditions but also
because of their superb educational preparation in terms of university studies and
historic libraries.
Having said all that, it is clear that over the 100 years of their work in the English
Province the Salesians have always educated the children of the urban Catholic poor
in their schools with practically none of the resources of money or highly educated
manpower available to other orders. They have also, at various times and in
different geographical contexts, tried with varied degrees of success to work for
children in difficulty: homeless orphans, juvenile delinquents, and disaffected
youth.
One of the most significant features has been the undoubted contribution that the
Province has made to the Salesian Missions in Africa, (South Africa, Swaziland,
Lesotho, and Liberia) India, China and South America. Don Bosco's original dream of
England supplying English-speaking missionaries for the world was, to some degree,
realised.
In terms of pastoral work the Salesians in Great Britain have not been able to import
the classic Salesian institutions, the Oratory (youth club/youth parish) or the Trade
School, (except in Malta and Cape Town). Instead they focussed on trying to provide
Catholic secondary schools (day and boarding) for the aspiring working class and
homes/hostels/residential schools for children at risk. They have also worked in
parishes, both our own and at the service of the diocesan parishes nearby and as
military chaplains
The origins of the Salesian presence in England dates back to the 1850's with the
dream of Dominic Savio which illustrates the vivid impression that reports of the so
called 'Second Spring' of the Catholic Church in England had made in contemporary
Piedmont. At a political level, the perception of Camillo Benso di Cavour, architect
of Italian Unity, was that the expulsion of Austria from Italy and the aggrandisement
of Piedmont were dependent on both the British Government's good will and finance
from the London Stock Exchange. Don Bosco's own connection with the English scene
was personal, almost familial, in that his friend Canon (later archbishop) Laurence
Gastaldi, who had joined the Rosminians and worked in England, preached the
retreats at the Oratory while Dominic Savio was there. Dominic's youthful dream of
a mission to England took 30 years to realise.
In the meantime, Don Bosco's missionary dreams had made him aware of the
importance of English speaking missionaries and he developed his contact with
Archbishop Tobias Kirby, the Rector of the Irish College and agent of Cardinal

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Cullen, the Archbishop of Dublin. Cullen's concern for the Irish Diaspora had led to
his working on Roman opinion for the appointment of Irish bishops all over the
English-speaking world. Don Bosco's contact with the Irish College led a group of
young Irish students for the priesthood to come to Turin (not without incident) and
to become Salesians. Among them was Francis Donnellan whose letters home
provide a rich source for a contemporary view of the Oratory at Turin seen through
Irish eyes. Another of this group was Fr Edward McKiernan who became the first
Rector of the Salesians at Battersea.
The foundation at Battersea came via the success of Don Bosco as an international
figure in France and in Roman society. The Countess Georgiana de Stacpoole, a
notable benefactor of the Salesians in Paris and a believer in direct involvement
among the poor of London, invited Don Bosco to take over a parish she had founded
in West Battersea, having been disappointed by the response of the diocese to her
foundation. A determined old aristocrat, who had been involved in Pius IX's escape
from Rome during the Roman Republic of 1849, she was not to be put off by
hierarchical sensibilities and pursued the matter with the Congregation for the
Propagation of the Faith which confirmed her offer. Fr F Dalmazzo was the first
Salesian to set foot in England and though he was impressed the vastness of
Clapham Junction railway station, couldn't abide the climate or the food, despite
the kind welcome he received from Fr Galeran, a neighbouring priest who took him
in.
The first group led by Fr E McKiernan, with Fr C B Macey and Bro Rossaro were
welcomed by Fr Francis Bourne (later Bishop of Southwark and Cardinal Archbishop
of Westminster) and set up house at 26 Trott Street Battersea, with the help of Mrs
Pash, a widowed Irish washerwoman, in late 1887. Fr Macey succeeded as Rector
after the sudden death of McKiernan from TB in December 1888.
Already at this early stage we can discern the problems that were to dog the early
foundation, namely the grinding poverty of the local area and the difficulty of
developing the characteristic Salesian works in such a setting. When they first
attempted to set up a boys' club it was very quickly taken over by the men of the
parish who had no recreational facilities at all.
The Elementary School built by the Countess became a focus for the education of
the early Salesians as it offered them positions as teachers' assistants and then entry
to the Catholic training college. As soon as they were ordained, however, they could
no longer teach in elementary schools. This strengthened the tendency fostered by
Fr Macey to see the ordained priests as being above the menial tasks of school
teaching. Fr Macey always cultivated the style of a 'clerical gentleman', a model
more familiar in the Church of England or the English diocesan clergy. His own
background of being a convert Anglican and having spent time with the
Benedictines, the most aristocratic of the English religious orders, and his extremely
limited Salesian training meant that as the Rector of the first community he seems
to have introduced traditions such as calling the clerics and coadjutor confreres,
'brothers' and giving them 'special antique-style religious names'. These combined
with the poverty, isolation and insignificance of the social impact of the work to
make the community hardly distinguishable from the diocesan clergy round about.
The difficulty of transplanting a Salesian charism into what was a predominantly
Protestant and often xenophobic culture was immense particularly when the
animator was unsure of its significance himself.
More details of FR John Dickson’s province history can be found on the province web
site at www.salesians.org.uk

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Guidelines for Welcoming new SDB Arrivals
1.Initial Information to be supplied to the provincial Office
Fr Patrick Sherlock can provide:
1. Name, date of birth and contact details including email
2. A testimonial letter from the student’s own provincial.
3. A police clearance certificate
4. A copy of your passport
2. Information your Rector will need from you
• A copy of the SDB’s passport kept on file
• Full details of next of kin and contact numbers
• Any relevant dietary needs and medical history.
• Preferences regarding areas of pastoral experience
• The dates for the renewal of their vows
The Rector will want to ensure with you
1. That you feel welcome with confreres and have a general idea of the work of the
community.
2. That you have the opportunity to share some of your story as an SDB and can
speak about the motivation for the choice for project Europe.
3. Ensure that a simple and consistent arrangement is made for cash for your day to
day needs.
4. That you have morning and evening prayer books and a daily missal.
5. After a while the Rector will identify a person who will accompany you in your
early pastoral experience. This may be a lay person working in the Salesian
mission.
6. When you know the community a little better you will be asked to choose a
spiritual director. If you are in initial formation this must be an SDB confreres.
7. That you register with the local doctor.
8. That you take things slowly in developing pastoral experience. Pastoral work in
this province is surrounded by many legal constraints and sensitivities that do not
exist in other cultures. Also the secular nature of young people make some
approaches to evangelisation counter-productive. Expect to have many questions
and pray for patience!
9. That your English language is adequate for ministry. Many new SDB arrivals will
benefit from a course in English which can sharpen the hearing and help with
pastoral engagement. Ask people if you are speaking clearly and check with the
Rector to see if you need some tuition.
10.That you are equipped for this climate. The British climate is rarely very warm or
very cold but can be damp for long periods. If you find that your clothes no are
not appropriate please ask the Rector for advice.
11.That you register for a national insurance number. The Rector will advise you..

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General guidelines for new arrivals
Topic
Comment
Child Protection
British law asks that all people who work with the young
have a criminal record check (CRB) to ensure that they
are appropriate people to work with young people. This
can be initiated by the school or parish you work in or by
the Rector of the community to which you belong.
Driving
No SDB may drive a province car until they have
demonstrated that they hold a valid licence and have had
at least one session with a qualified driving instructor.
The instructor should be asked for an opinion, preferably
in writing stating clearly that they consider the SDB safe
to drive in Britain. This is an insurance condition.
Significant
expenditure
Any costs for clothes equipment medical and travel should
be agreed specifically by the Rector. There may be a
number of items required at the start that fall into this
category so that you are able to work effectively with
young people and in parish ministry.
Pocket Money
Credit cards are increasingly difficult to obtain for SDB
especially if they are present for a relatively short period
of ministry in Britain. In general cash from the bursar is
the preferred method. An agreed sum can be given (one
community has chosen the sum of £50). The SDB should
present an account of how this money has been spent
together with as many receipts as is possible before
receiving further cash.
Holiday at
Christmas
Other Breaks
Many SDBs take a short break at Christmas and it is
recommended that SDBs break the routine and travel,
perhaps to another SDB house or to friends/family in
Britain for a few days.
For longer break, often in summer months, SDBs need to
follow the guidance of the provincial directory

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Payments in
Any payments made by schools, parishes or others for
the service of SDBs should be regarded as part of the
community income and be given to the Rector.
Spiritual Direction
In general the Rector of the community should act as
your spiritual director but there may be
circumstances where another SDB in the community
may be delegated to fill that role. For Project Europe
arrivals a Salesian spiritual director should be agreed
in the first few months after arrival. A friendly chat
with the Rector should also occur at least monthly and
ideally close to the monthly recollection.
Weekends
When the work of the SDB is largely focussed on
school ministry care should be taken to have some
structured roles at the weekend providing regular and
clear engagement with young people in the
neighbourhood. In most settings this will be in a parish
close by. This needs to be negotiated with the Rector.
Further study
Part of the benefit of working in Britain is an
enhanced fluency in spoken and written English. New
arrivals through PE are expected to continue
reflection, experiences and study that will further
integrate them into this culture.
Province Youth
Ministry Involvement
Where possible new arrivals should be aware of
opportunities to work from time to time with more
committed youth within the Salesian network. Student
Voice, Youth Easter, Phoenix and SOS programmes are
especially appropriate events to consider. Where
involvement happens it should be with the approval of
the local Rector.
Balanced living
As SDB new arrivals you may have to learn again about
how to balance your life and energy in a new culture
where the usual sources of strength may not be
present in the same way. You need to seek guidance
about how to avoid any unhealthy intensity in work or
spirituality. Home. School, playground and church
should be balanced through regular spiritual direction.

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Formation
meetings
There will be up to six meetings each year for those in
initial formation in the province and three for new
arrivals through PE. These are important dates and are
not optional. They aim to broaden the reflection of the
SDBs and to build regular sharing and celebration
moments into the year.
Ministry to National
Groups
The SDB new arrivals are in our province primarily to
experience the mission of the SDBs in Britain. They are
here to learn alongside SDBs and not to develop a specific
national apostolate based on natives of their own country.
Such contacts can be very helpful from time to time but
they do not, as yet, form a central part of the Province
mission.
Line management
During apostolic work, in schools especially each SDB
should have a named person (SDB or a lay person) who will
offer regular opportunities for supervision and on-going
training for their role. This is not the same as spiritual
direction and it is important that this line manager is not
your Rector or spiritual director. A structured journal is
available for those who would like a more organised
approach to this task.
Confessor
SDB arrivals should be encouraged to seek out a specific
SDB as their confessor. Ideally this would be an older SDB
who is not directly involved in their day to day work. From
time to time a confessor who speaks their native language
may be appropriate.
Medical
You need to register with the local doctor and all costs
including dental work and opticians costs should be
covered by the community. Please give The Rector your
contact details in for your family and province of origin
and any details about your about health, medicines etc.

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Provincial responsibilities for new arrivals
1. General Formation Direction
2. Initial Formation
3. Documentation
Kieran Anderson
Kieran Anderson
Patrick Sherlock
Culture Shock and new SDB arrivals
Culture Shock is the reaction of your mind and body to the change from a familiar
environment to another environment that is unknown. In your own culture, you
know the language, all the ways a person behaves in different situations, the non-
verbal behaviors, the values, and the ways of reasoning. You are able to do things
automatically and without thinking. For example, you know how to greet someone
on the street, how to answer the telephone, how to dress for different occasions,
and how to ask for assistance if you need any. In a foreign culture, you do not have
any of this knowledge. You have to think about how to do the smallest thing. After
the newness of the foreign culture wears off, and you begin to notice the many
subtle differences, you begin to have language, food, money, social, and even
health problems.
Some of the physical symptoms of culture shock include:
• too much sleep or too little sleep
• eating too much or no appetite
• frequent minor illnesses
• upset stomach/headaches
Some of the psychological symptoms of culture shock include:
• loneliness or boredom
• homesickness, idealizing home
• feeling helpless and dependent
• irritability and even hostility
• social withdrawal
• excessive concern for health or security
• rebellion against rules and authority
• feeling like you have no control in your life
• feeling unimportant and being a foreigner
• crying
• negative stereotyping of your host country people
As you can see, many of these symptoms are not unusual. This is why it can be difficult to
recognize when you have culture shock. Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms,
and each person's reaction may be different.

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Managing Culture Shock
Once you realize you have culture shock, getting over it and moving on to better
adjustment with the host culture will depend on you. It is you who must take some
positive steps to feel better, and the sooner you take them, the better!
First, you should remember that culture shock is a normal part of your adjustment
and that you may have some of the symptoms. Some of your reactions may not be
normal for you; you may be more emotional or more sensitive, or lose your sense of
humor. Recognizing your culture shock symptoms will help you learn about yourself
as you work your way through it.
Second, try to analyze objectively the differences you are finding between your
home and your host country. Look for the reasons your host country does things
differently. Remember that host customs and norms are (mostly) logical to them,
just as your customs and norms at home are logical to you!
Third, set some goals for yourself to redevelop your feeling of control in your life.
These should be small tasks that you can accomplish each day. For example, if you
do not feel like leaving your room, plan a short activity each day that will get you
out. If you feel that language is your problem, set daily goals to learn more: study
fifteen minutes a day; learn five new words a day; learn one new expression each
day; watch a TV program in your new language for 30 minutes. Each goal that you
achieve will give you more and more self-confidence that you can cope. Fourth, find
local friends who are sympathetic and understanding. Talk to them about your
feelings and specific situations. They can help you understand ideas from their
cultural point of view.
Finally, remember that you became a Salesian missionary to live in another culture
and learn about it. Develop the attitude that you CAN live with the differences and
still learn and enjoy yourself. You do not need to worry about losing your own
cultural values or identity just because you feel comfortable in another culture.
Thanks to Rotary International for help with this material

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The Cultural Iceberg
Some of the strongest determinants of culture tend to lie hidden in assumptions and
“the way we do things here” that are difficult to explain. Visible practices
sometimes have roots in a different value-system that prioritizes some things above
others. For example British culture tends to be introvert and under-stated rather
than extrovert and outwardly emotional. There is pragmatism about the British
culture that values practical thinking above theories and abstract planning. You will
find the province plan at the back of this resource but it may well be used in a
different way to the plan in your home province. The underlying assumptions of a
culture that lie beneath the surface of the iceberg are difficult to deal with because
they have not been consciously grasped even by the native people and they may be
too deep to ever articulate. To that extent we can embrace another culture but
parts of us may never be completely at home for reasons we may never be able to
explain.
There needs to be some of the gentleness of St Francis de Sales in the process of
growing into a new culture. There will be many times when native SDBs and new
arrivals will misread a situation. There may be times when tiredness causes
bewilderment. The common culture that we all have in the preventive system is the
bond that will always bring us back to the deeper belonging we have as sons of Don
Bosco at the service of the young.

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Some British Custom and Language
Greetings
• People shake hands when introduced for the first time, or at formal
occasions. Handshakes are not aggressive and either the left or right hand can
be used.
• British people tend not to greet with a kiss or hug except with relatives or
close friends.
• British people tend to call young people and friends by their first names,
otherwise 'Mr' or 'Mrs' (or other title such as 'Dr') followed by the person's
family name (until you are told to use the first name). To address a University
professor, listen to how they introduce themselves and then call them by this
(for example some professors use their titles, some use their first names).
Visiting
• A genuine invitation to someone's home will include mention of a specific
date and time.
• British people tend to telephone or send a text message or email before
visiting each other at home, in respect of people's privacy and personal
space.
What do they really mean?
• The British often have difficulty saying what they really mean, for example
saying 'no' or making a critical comment, for fear of causing offence or upset.
• If you are usually open and direct in your opinions you may not understand
what British people really mean.
• If you are in any doubt, ask.
• The British sense of humour can be ironic and confusing. As you get to know
someone better and spend more time with British people, you will begin to
understand what people really mean. If you are in any doubt, ask!
Arrive on time
• In the workplace and in academic life time-keeping is important.
• You should always be on time for lectures, classes and meetings with staff.
• If you are going to be late for an appointment with someone, let them know.
In public
• Stand in the queue, queue jumping is considered bad manners.
• Words you will hear very often are ‘excuse me’, ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and
‘sorry’.
• Hold the door open for others if you go through first.
• Privacy is very important for British people. It is considered impolite to stare
at others in public or ask personal or intimate questions, for example how old
they are or how much money they earn, are they married, do they go to
church etc.

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Men and women
• Men and women in the UK are entitled to equal respect and status in all areas
of life.
• Relationships between men and women may be more formal or less formal
than you are used to, and there may be differences in social relationships
between people of the same gender.
One of the province’s heroes
Sean Devereux Salesian Volunteer and martyr from GBR
1964 -1993
On 2nd January 1993, Sean Devereux was shot dead – assassinated by a hired
gunman whilst working for UNICEF in Kismayo, Somalia. Sean died coming to the
aid of children.
Sean gave his life for a new ethos to the world, one that responds to the international community’s
responsibility for innocent civilians, particularly children and mothers, who are trapped and
traumatized by terror and conflict.
“In adverse, and often dangerous circumstances Sean showed complete dedication to his work. His
colleagues admired his energy, his courage, and his compassion. Sean was an exemplary staff
member and gave his life serving others, in the true spirit of the United Nations. Sean was a real
soldier of Peace.”
UN Secretary General, Dr. Boutros Boutros-

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Some British slang, mini glossary
Be careful when you use slang as in some situations it can be inappropriate. Slang is
very informal and colloquial. For example, it is generally used amongst people who
know each other well, and can vary amongst different age groups.
Slang
What it means
All right?
"Hello, how are you"? You would say this to someone you knew (not
to a complete stranger)
Bad hair day
A problematic and difficult day e.g. 'I am having a bad hair day'.
Bite your arm off Means that someone is over excited to get something e.g. 'he would
bite your arm off to get that job'.
Brolly
Umbrella
Bruv
A term of address, usually for a friend (brother)
Cheers
Thanks
Chill-out
To relax
Give us a bell Call me
Grab a bite
Have some food
Grand
Adj. Excellent, lovely. {Informal} Noun A thousand pounds sterling
Grub
Noun Food
Gutted
Adj. Really upset
Hiya
Hi there a friendly way of saying hello.
I'm easy
I don't care or it's all the same to me.
Jab
Noun a vaccination
Knackered
Adj. Tired, worn out, exhausted (! not to be used in formally!)
Mate
Noun friend
Not my cup of tea means something is not to my liking
On about
What are you on about? means what are you talking about?
Out of order
Adj. Of a person or their behaviour: unfair, unacceptable, or wrong.
Of something: not working, faulty
Piece of cake Something that can be done or achieved easily with very little effort
Pretty
Adj. Quite - "pretty good" would mean quite good.
Quid
One pound (money)
Ring me
Call me
See you later
Goodbye {Informal}. Said even if you will not see them later
Ta!
Thank you! {Informal}
Take it easy / 1. Goodbye, a parting salutation.
Take care
2. Relax, don't get stressed
Uni
University
Waffle
To talk on and on about nothing
Way-out
Adj. Unusual, unconventional
Wicked
Excellent
Zapper
Noun A TV remote control unit
24/7
Noun All the time. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Salesian Ministry in GBR Province
Young people
Young people in Great Britain are among some of the most secularized young people
in the world ( see http://www.search-institute.org/csd/major-projects/with-their-
own-voices). Catholics make up about 10% of the population of the country. Mass
attendance is estimated at about 6% among catholic teenagers. There are more
people attending Mosque than attend catholic churches each weekend.
In Great Britain spirituality is seen as personal issue, not usually talked about and
almost a life-style choice that has little impact on real life. The general assumption
is that faith is largely irrelevant except where it becomes fanatical or
fundamentalist- in which case it is viewed with great suspicion.
Young people who do attend church need a lot of support and encouragement
because their attendance will indicate a real desire to belong and one that will not
be supported by many of their peer group. They need all the skills of basic Salesian
work: the friendly approach, the liberal use of praise, the time to get to know you
and the opportunity to share tasks with you. They will not respond well to questions
about the religious practice of themselves or other members of their family. The
main concern of Salesians in this province is to build a strong sense of belonging to
church through a friendly approach, common work for others and appropriate
celebrations of liturgy. Many of the expectations of other cultures in terms of
practices of piety, relationship to priests and church leadership cannot be met in
this secularised culture.
Young catholic people who do not attend church will almost certainly be from
families that have ceased to practice. Their main sense of being catholic will come
from their relationship with the school. Even in practicing families the parents will
have given their teenage children a choice whether to attend on Sunday or not.
Many families will attend mass once or twice a month only. In schools there will also
be a percentage ranging from 2% to 20% who are not catholic. They have committed
themselves to being part of a catholic community and to the prayer and liturgical
life of the school specifically. About half of the staff in Salesian secondary schools
will be catholic and perhaps 5-10% will be practicing at any time.
Schools
The GBR province has a strong presence in schools at secondary and primary level. It
is a place where the Salesian charism is made most available to a secular culture.
Salesian schools are generally part of the state system of education and have a
largely lay staff, many of whom regard themselves as Salesian teachers. However,
the structure and authority pattern of the school follows the standard state pattern.
This means that the leadership is placed in the hands of a head teacher who is not
always an SDB. They are responsible to a governing body many of whose members
are appointed by the provincial. The local Rector is therefore not in charge of the
school or of the head teacher but works through influence or through the
membership of the governing body. This has great advantages in clarity but it can
mean that the planning of the school (which is very detailed) can take place
separately from the SDB community planning.

2.9 Page 19

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New arrivals coming into Salesian schools for the first time will therefore
need to notice these differences:
1. The Rector is not in charge instead there is a head teacher who is
usually a layman or lay woman.
2. The decision-making about school mission, personnel, timetable is
made in the school not the SDB community
3. There is a chaplain in the school who is responsible under the head
teacher for the spiritual life of the school. They can be SDB or
laypeople.
4. The use of liturgy and sacraments is encouraged by the Rector but
decided with the head teacher and the chaplain.
5. Many lay staff will be happy to pray with young people and talk about
their faith but there will be some who are not confident in talking
about faith
Parishes
The GBR province has many different parish settings. There are parishes that are
closely connected to the Salesian Community such as at Bootle where St James’
church is physically connected to the community. There are other parish settings
where the church is at varying distances from the SDB community house. There are
also some Salesian parishes, such as Newent and Cowley that stand alone and are a
longer distance from their community base.
Parish life is also varied in its development across the GBR province. Some parishes
are set in places that are increasing in the numbers of Catholics and others are set
in areas where demolition and population movement means that the amount of
energy in the parish community is in decline. In response to this change and to the
falling numbers of diocesan clergy, local dioceses are implementing plans to re-
shape the parish structures and establish pastoral areas that meet the needs of a
number of parishes with one or two clergy serving perhaps four or five parishes. This
restructuring is a painful process for many parishioners and is making increasing
demands on lay collaboration and participation in church life.
The development of lay ministries has been in progress for years in parishes but
now, as the average age of parishioners rises in some areas, they are being asked to
work more collaboratively alongside parish priests to ensure a new shape for the
future. Some clergy are happy to work collaboratively, some are too tired. Some
laity are natural collaborators in a common mission, others are not skilled at
planning, leading or coordinating. This means that there is a level of uncertainty
about the shape of the diocesan structure and an uncertainty about roles and
decision making. The shape of parish ministry for the future seems to lie in team
work and an increase in collaborative skills- something that the Salesian work in
Easterhouse in Glasgow has been promoting for many years.

2.10 Page 20

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New arrivals engaging in parish life might need to remember that:
1. The people who attend often do so out of deep conviction rather than simply
out of duty
2. The age profile of a Sunday mass will often exclude teenagers and be
comprised in some parishes of the very young and the very old.
3. In some parishes the age structure demands that the clergy focus on funerals
for an increasingly ageing population.
4. There is a need for home visiting in most parishes.
5. Catechetical programmes are in place for most parishes and in some cases
they are shared with the local school and most will involve parents. Pastorally
these are rare opportunities to work with wider family groups.
6. The relationship between parish and primary school is usually much closer so
that sacraments and parish events can be shared. The link between parish
and secondary school is much more difficult to sustain.
The Chapel at Thornleigh Provincial House

3 Pages 21-30

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3.1 Page 21

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The Provincial Directory
Community Life and Poverty
From (at least) 1910 until the Special General Chapter, the Provincial Customary,
deliberations of Provincial Chapters and Rectors’ Meetings provided detailed rules
and regulations about such matters as the daily timetable, meals, dress, use of
cycles, radios, reading matter, relations between Rectors and Parish Priests...
The following General Principle was given: “As a general rule the traditional usage
of the House of Battersea, the Provincial House and Mother House of the Province,
should be followed wherever local conditions permit. Divergences of a permanent
nature must be referred to the Provincial.”
Provincial Norms
1. According to the principle enunciated in C124, each community, bearing in mind
our traditions, shall draw up its own programme in conformity with the Holy Rule.
(esp R69-76, C186, R184.3) [Passed unanimously]
2. Conscious of, and faithful to, the spirit enshrined in our Holy Rule (esp C73, C75-
76, R5557, R63) a confrere may use and transfer to another house adequate clothing
and personal books and, in agreement with the rector, those other items which he
needs. [Passed unanimously]
3. Each confrere may, in the course of a year, take holidays at times agreed with
the Rector, bearing in mind community life and apostolic commitments and also our
witness to the local people. Holidays outside the British Isles and Journeys that
involve travel outside Europe require the consent of the Provincial. Such requests
should only be made after consultation with the Rector. As in all matters of poverty,
the fact that others are prepared to pay is irrelevant. [Passed unanimously]
4. In the light of the report on the financial state of the Province to the Provincial
Chapter, the Chapter delegates the drawing up of norms for the practical exercise
of solidarity to the Provincial and his Council. (cf R190) [Passed unanimously]
Review of Poverty
5. In conformity with R65, the practical directive of GC21 (59a) and the proposal of
the Provincial Chapter of 1982, the Review of Poverty should take place in each
community during Lent, and a copy of the Report should be sent to the Provincial
before Easter. The Review of Poverty for the Province should take place at each
Provincial Chapter. [Passed unanimously]

3.2 Page 22

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The Retreat
In his preface to the first Constitutions and Regulations, Don Bosco wrote, “The
fundamental practice of piety which in some way embraces them all consists in
making the Spiritual Retreat each year, and the Exercise for a Happy Death every
month”. In earlier times, the detailed horarium of the retreat was prescribed
together with other specific provisions (cf “Practices of Piety for Use in Salesian
Houses” 1948, p78f)
Provincial Norms
7. Faithful to our traditions and to R72, every year each confrere will make a
retreat of six days, unless, in agreement with the Provincial, he is excused by ill-
health or some other just cause. In normal circumstances, this retreat will be one of
those arranged for the members of the Province. If he so wishes, and in agreement
with the Provincial, a confrere can make a different retreat occasionally. [Passed
unanimously]
8. The programme of the Retreat will be decided by the Preacher and the Director
of the Retreat in consultation with the retreatants. [Passed unanimously] Regulation
74
Marian Devotion
In the light of R74, wherever possible, on the twenty-fourth of each month the
community Mass will be that of Mary, Help of Christians. The Blessing of Mary Help
of Christians will be given in common on the same day. [Passed unanimously] Code
of Practice
Care of our sick confreres
In the Provincial Chapter of 1977 three Resolutions were passed (cf Acts of that
Chapter Numbers 7.1 – 7.3) and these have been observed since then. At the
Chapter of May 1986 the practice set out in N7.2 of the 1977 Acts was changed. This
was done because of certain changes in the relevant circumstances, namely:
1. The increasing number of older confreres in most communities and the subsidies
which have to be paid for their upkeep by the Provincial Office make a nonsense of
charging these communities to support the Medical Fund.
2. When older Religious now have to be taken into a Nursing Home for nursing care,
the financial cost is provided by the State National Health Scheme, thus drastically
reducing the financial burden to us.

3.3 Page 23

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Administration
In accordance with Norm 6 of the Provincial Directory above, the Provincial and his
Council drew up the following Code of Practice which was approved by the
Provincial Chapter.
The following shall be kept at the Provincial Office:
a) Official documents regarding the Society, the Province and individual
members (eg Birth Certificates, Degrees, and other qualifications).
b) Register of Members
c) Files of Obligations
d) The Wills of members, with a second copy retained by the member
e) Covenants made by members in favour of the Society.
f) Property Registration: A Register of Properties (Schedule of Deeds) shall be
maintained in the Provincial Office.
g) Safe Custody of Articles of Value: Each House is responsible for safeguarding
all Articles of Value in accordance with the instructions of our Insurance
Brokers, and to ensure that they are adequately insured. An inventory of such
items is to be kept in the files of the one responsible, Rector, Bursar or Parish
Priest.
h) Important Documents: Our Trust Deeds, all Deeds of Property, Leases,
Property Agreements, etc, are to be kept by our Solicitors. (For England and
Wales: Addleshaw Sons and Latham of Manchester. For Scotland: Guild and
Guild of Edinburgh.)
i) All legacies will be administered by the Provincial Office in accordance with
the wishes of the donor. In certain cases this administration may be
delegated by the Provincial and his Council.
j) In accordance with R30 each of our parishes shall have a Salesian Account
distinct from the Parish Account. An inventory of all items provided by the
Provincial Office shall be kept be the Parish Priest as well as a record of other
Salesian items. This is distinct from and without prejudice to the inventory of
goods both movable and immovable which is required by Canon 1283 §2.

3.4 Page 24

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The Provincial Plan of GBR Province
Community Life
Vision
Proposals
Statements
Evaluate our
presences
using revised
criteria.
In reviewing our
presences,
The vision is of
the province
having a smaller
number of viable
ensure the
quality of
community life
so that it can
deliver
communities
which are
characterized by
hospitality,
hospitality,
openness and a
willingness to
share with
openness and young people.
willingness to
share life with
young people. Communities
will be asked to
fix certain times
and dates in the
year when
young people
will be invited in
to share
hospitality and
the life of the
whole
community.
Action
Revise criteria
Develop
evaluation
process
Systematic
review
Discuss what
this will mean
at Rectors’ Mtg
Action it in local
communities
By Whom
PC
PC
Depends on
process
MC and
Rectors
Rectors and
communities
From/By
When
Notes
Autumn 2010
Mar 2011
2011 /13
Nov 2010
2010/2011 -
ongoing

3.5 Page 25

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Vocations
Vision
Statements
The vision of the
province is that:
We will find a
new confidence
and enthusiasm
in promoting SDB
life to young
adults.
The province is
resourced to
develop new
vocations
initiatives.
Proposals
Develop a new
SDB vocations
initiative with the
necessary
resources,
personnel,
technology and
enthusiasm (as
a matter of
urgency).
Consult with
other successful
vocations teams
in the UK.
Action
Contact
Vocations
Teams and
Compass
By Whom From/By
When
Notes
MC
Autumn 2010/
Mar 2011
Oct 2010 –
MC
Mar 2011
Implement the Set up new
vocation team team and
MC
draft remit with meet
age-appropriate
resources.
Oct 2010
ongoing

3.6 Page 26

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Formation
Vision
Statements
The vision of the
province is that:
We have a UK
based centre of
study and
formation.
Proposals
Continue to
develop a UK
based
international
community for
initial formation
and further
studies, eg
international
novitiate and
postgraduate
study centre.
Prepare
personnel for an
international
community in
Battersea.
Action
ID formation
course and
personnel
By Whom From/By
When
MC
2011/12
Notes
Rosary
Pilgrimage
Trust Funding
Rector
Appointment in
2013
A team will
explore the
community
MC
developments in
Battersea.
New House
2013?
Every SDB
engages with
ongoing
formation.
Name a person
in each
community who
holds the
resources for
Salesian
formation.
Rector or
nominate
MC and
Rectors
The formation Produce an FT
team will be
online digest
asked to
of articles of
produce an
current
online digest of interest
articles of
current interest.
Nov 2010
Summer 2011
Organise
formation
experiences
based in
Jerusalem,
Turin, places of
Salesian
interest.
FT
2011/ 13/ 15
(FT ‘Journey
to 2015)

3.7 Page 27

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Youth Ministry
Vision Statements Proposals
The vision of the
province is of an even
more dynamic and
energetic youth ministry
team with SDB
leadership/membership:
which develops a real
partnership with co
workers which has a
greater impact on the
local and national
scene
Further
develop the
role of the
youth ministry
team,
especially in
direct
engagement
with the
schools and
parishes of
the province.
Ensure the
energetic and
dynamic
continuity of
leadership.
Formulate an
action plan
based on the
points in the
youth ministry
report.
Action
Transition
to new
appointee
Formulate
an action
plan based
on the
points in
the youth
ministry
report
By Whom From/By Notes
When
Jan –
MC, PC, BG August 2011
BG and
YMT
2010/2011
ongoing
Employ youth
workers to
carry forward
the work of
the youth
ministry team.
2/3
parishes
asked to
bid
PP/Teams
and YMT
Feb 2011 for
Easter or
Summer
start
Local or
national
job/field?
Potential joint
funding with
FMA/Diocese

3.8 Page 28

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Youth Ministry
Vision
Proposals
Statements
The youth
ministry team
will be asked to
work in
collaboration
with the
which provides formation team
further
on youth
developed
ministry
formation
formation
programmes, so programmes.
that
everyone who Offer all those
engages with us who work with
also
us a genuine
experiences
experience of
Salesian
well resourced,
formation at
specifically
some level.
Salesian
formation.
Action
Joint mtg / sub
group mtg
Support the
Cymfed Youth
Ministry Course
- 3 candidates
per year
- Offer SDB
tutors and a
supplement
Salesian module
By Whom
FT and YMT
YMT- identify
candidates
From/By
When
2011/2012
Notes
Talk to
FAMILIAS to
help the
development of
ministry with
families.
Make contact
and meet.
Explore joint
training/project.
YMT or PP
By Feb 2011
2011/2012
ongoing
Possible
training
providers for
PP and
parish
teams.

3.9 Page 29

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Social Communications
Vision
Proposals
Statements
Create a first
class, inspiring
and interactive
website that links
all areas of
Salesian work
and enables a
sharing of
The vision of
resources for all
the province is aspects of
of a first class, evangelisation
inspiring and including online
interactive web guidance and
site that links all vocational
areas of
discernment.
Salesian work
and enables the Recruit and
sharing of
employ a
resources for all professional
aspects of
communications
evangelisation, network director
including on- (with a support
line guidance
and
team).
discernment. Present the re-
launched web
site to each
community with
an explanation of
how they can
contribute to it
and use it.
Action
Appoint new
Social
Communications
Team
Create new
website etc.
Recruit and
employ a
professional
communications
network director
(with a support
team).
By Whom
MC
New Social
Communications
Team
PC
Social
Communications
Team
From/By
When
2012
onwards
Feb 2012
for summer
2012 start
Jan 2013
onwards
Notes
Offer training to
SDBs in the area
of technology
and social
communication.
Social
Communications
Team and FT
Jan 2013

3.10 Page 30

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Social Communications
Vision
Proposals
Statements
The vision is for Devise a
an even more
succession
thriving
strategy with
publications
the possibility of
department in
training an SDB
the province.
in the area of
publications.
Action
Consult with
Tony B
ID training
course
Make
appointment
By Whom
MC
Review and re-
launch Don
Bosco Today.
Review and re-
launch Don
Bosco Today.
New
appointee +
team
Encourage
MC
confreres to
support and
promote Don
Bosco
Publications.
From/By Notes
When
Summer 2012
Jan 2013

4 Pages 31-40

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4.1 Page 31

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New Frontiers
Vision
Proposals
Statements
The vision of
the province
is:
A refocusing
of our province
mission
through,
amongst other
things, a
review of all
our presences
over the next
five years.
Action
Revise
criteria
Develop
evaluation
process
Systematic
review
By Whom
From/By Notes
When
PC
Autumn
2010
PC/Sectors/Facilitators?
Feb 2011
Depends on process
2011 /13
The
development
of new
frontiers
already
undertake in
areas such as
university
chaplaincy,
ethnic
chaplaincy.
The
establishment
of a new
Salesian
initiative
among
disadvantaged
young people.
Further
develop new
frontiers
already
undertaken in
areas such as
university
chaplaincy
and ethnic
chaplaincy
linked to our
own
communities.
Establish a
new Salesian
initiative
among
disadvantaged
young people
(within our
established
works).
Explore
additional
opportunities
Investigate
Autumn
2011 or
spring
2012

4.2 Page 32

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New Frontiers
Vision
Proposals
Statements
Further develop
our ministry for
families through
the sharing of
good practice in
our various
contexts.
Action
By Whom From/By
When
Focus of Parish
Meeting 2011?
Use of
Familias?
YMT and
Familias
Oct 2011
ongoing
Notes
The further
development of
our ministry with
families.
Respond
seriously to
GC26’s call to
family ministry
through
collaborating with
schools, parishes
and other
agencies.
As above
Develop and
establish
Salesian
presences for
disadvantaged ???
families.
Strengthen the
relationship
between parish
and primary
school.
Establish
patterns /
relationships
Parish
Teams
Visit and
review by
MC
Ongoing

4.3 Page 33

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International and National Links
Vision
Proposals Action
Statements
By Whom
From/By
When
The vision of
the province is
that:
We have a high
profile role in
the national
youth scene.
Develop closer
links with
diocesan
youth service
directors.
Continue to
develop our
contribution to
the Catholic
Youth Ministry
Federation.
Invite
Diocesan
Youth Officers
to visit each
community
Remain on
CYMfed
Board
Support
conference
Rectors
BG
YMT + MC
Annually
Ongoing
Annually
Continue to
develop links
in the area of
formation,
youth ministry
and further
study with
other
provinces.
One ‘out of
province’
experience
per year per
sector
YMT schools
Parishes
Volunteers
DBYN
Formation
Communications
Annually
We are more
integrated into
the international
Salesian
network with
specific links to
other provinces
for the mutual
benefit of all.
Explore the
development
of closer links
with Ireland
and other
English
speaking
provinces.
Structure
exchange
visits with
English
speaking
provinces.
The provincial
will be asked
to appoint a
co-ordinator
for Project
Europe.
3 Island
Summit Mtg
Sabbatical
experiences
Make
appointment
YMT
MC
MC
Annually
Ongoing
Mar
2011/summer
2011
Notes

4.4 Page 34

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International and National Links
Vision
Proposals Action
Statements
Explore the
development of
a new multi-faith
We explore a
youth dialogue
new multi-faith and initiatives Investigate
youth initiative. (e.g. summer
SOS).
By Whom From/By
When
Autumn
2010/Spring
2011
Notes
We have
stronger links
with the FMA.
Contact Sr
Pauline and
meet
Spirituality
group
MC
DO’M, HP
Autumn 2010
Ongoing
Some Web sites for schools
Saint John Bosco College (Battersea) http://www.sjbc.wandsworth.sch.uk/
Thornleigh Salesian College (Bolton) http://www.thornleigh.bolton.sch.uk/
Savio Salesian College (Bootle) http://www.saviosalesiancollege.com/
Salesian School Chertsey http://www.salesian.surrey.sch.uk/
Salesian College Farnborough http://www.salesiancollege.com/
(a full listing is available in province directory available in your community)
The Salesian Family Calendar
www.thesalesianfamily.org.uk/calendar/public/About.aspx
For all Salesian dates please refer to the provincial
Salesian online calendar. The address is given above.
Dates can be added through reference to the
secretaries of the three main branches of the Salesian
Family. Their contact details are listed in this Directory.
Please try to avoid arranging dates that clash with
other events in the Salesian network.