Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Turin (Agenzia Fides) – On the occasion of the celebration by the Salesian Family in Piedmont and the Val d’Aosta of the 150 anniversary of the founding of the Salesian Congregation (see Fides 8/7/2008; 2/2/2009), from the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians a casket containing a large relic of Don Bosco left to begin a pilgrimage through the 130 countries in which the Salesian charism is to be found. Lazio is the first stage where it will stay for two months before crossing the Ocean on the way to Chile and Argentina for a journey lasting over two years.
The purpose of this pilgrimage has been explained by the Rector Major, Fr Pascual Chávez Villanueva like this: “After the success of the pilgrimage of the relic of St. Dominic Savio and after the expressions of appreciation which reached us, I thought how beautiful and important it would be for our dear Don Bosco to go to all the countries where we are working, and to give so many young people and their families the opportunity of feeling him close to them.”
“The pilgrimage,” the Rector Major added – “reminds us of the 26th General Chapter in which we had the experience of returning to Don Bosco in order to start afresh from him, and in that way to create a history of salvation and holiness. Today, Don Bosco, the finest gift that Italy has given to the youngsters of the world, wants to go to where his children, the young, the real light and hope for the future are.”
According to information from the ANS news agency, a festive crowd applauded the entry into the Valdocco inner courtyard of the casket which contains a reproduction of the image of Don Bosco in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians and a large relic of the saint. Then the Rector Major blessed it: “Enlightened by the example of St John Bosco,” Fr. Chávez said, “in every part of the world, encouraged by this image and by his teaching may we follow in the footsteps of the Lord, until the perfect man is formed in the full measure of Christ.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 27/4/2009)
