To priests

E IX, 4265

An invitation to suggest names of adult vocations available for Salesian life as coadjutors [brothers] — requirements — in the Salesian congregation, where they may take on various roles.

Turin, 24 October 1885 [?]

Very Reverend Sir [Father],

Despite the sadness of the times, there are still privileged souls among the youth who, given the opportunity, wish to abandon the world in order to more easily ensure the salvation of their souls.

To this end, the undersigned turns to you, so that if any of your spiritual children should show such an inclination, willing to lead a life of sacrifice as befits a religious, you may invite them to apply to join the Pious Salesian Society, founded by Fr John Bosco.

However, such young people must have a very good track record for behaviour, be of sound mind and body, and willing to take on any job: for example, working in the fields, in the vegetable garden, in the kitchen, in the bakery, serving in the refectory, cleaning the house; and if they are sufficiently educated, they will be placed in offices as secretaries. Once they had been trained in an art or craft practised in our institutes, they could continue their work in their respective workshops. They should be aged between 20 and 35 years old.

In addition to the certificate of good conduct from the parish priest, they must also include their birth certificate and proof of single status. If you can find someone in the above sense, you will facilitate the salvation of that soul, bring benefit to our Pious Society, and you will have great merit before God.

The undersigned thanks you in advance and, with the utmost esteem and deepest respect, is pleased to declare that he is

Your Reverend’s

most obliged servant

Fr John Bosco