Turin, 5 February 1875

To Salesian members,

Among the many proposals we received for opening a mission in foreign countries, the one from the Argentine Republic seemed the most acceptable. There, beyond the already civilised part, there are still endless expanses of land inhabited by savage peoples, among whom the zeal of the Salesians, with the grace of the Lord, can be exercised.

For now, we are beginning to open a hospice in Buenos Aires, the capital of this vast Republic, and a college with a public church in San Nicolás de los Arroyos, not far from the capital.

Now, as we are preparing the personnel to be sent on this first experiment, I wish that the choice fall on members who go not out of obedience, but of their own free will. Therefore, those who feel inclined to go on foreign missions must:

1. Submit a written application expressing their willingness to travel to those countries as members of our Congregation.

2. The Superior Chapter will then convene and, after invoking the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, will examine the health, knowledge, and physical and moral strengths of each applicant. Only those who can be reasonably judged to benefit from such an expedition for their own souls and, at the same time, return to the greater glory of God will be chosen.

3. Once the selection has been made, they will gather together for as long as necessary to learn the language and customs of the peoples to whom they intend to bring the word of eternal life.

4. Unless some serious reason causes a change of plan, the departure is set for next October.

We wholeheartedly thank God for the abundant blessings He bestows daily upon our humble Congregation, and we strive to make ourselves worthy of them by strictly observing our Constitutions, especially those concerning the vows with which we have consecrated ourselves to the Lord.

But we never cease to raise continuous prayers to the divine throne, so that we may practise the virtues of patience and meekness. Amen.

Believe that I am always in Jesus Christ,

your most affectionate friend

Fr John Bosco

P.S. The rector should read and explain the content of this letter to the Salesians who are in this house.