In order to mark the bicentenary of the foundational dream that Saint John Bosco experienced when only nine years of age (1824), this book offers readers reflections on a number of biblical and theological themes that emerge from the simplicity yet depth of that dream.
(ANS - Rome) - On Wednesday, March 13th, Giuseppe Valditara, the Minister of Education and Merit (Italy), delivered a video message for the 'Didacta Italia Fair', the primary national event focusing on innovation in the realm of education - including universities this year. The fair is scheduled to take place from March 20th to 22nd in Florence and is dedicated to Don Bosco, the Father and Teacher of Young People. In his address, the Minister underscored the significance of the event and elucidated the rationale behind this dedication.
The introduction of the metric system in Italy revolutionised everyday life, in all fields. Officially adopted by the newborn Italian state in 1861, the metre was actually imported into Italy in 1796 by Napoleon.
(ANS - Rome) - Thinking about Don Bosco and detaching him from his dreams means taking away a fundamental aspect of his complex and rich personality. Besides, he himself in the Memoirs of the Oratory recounted many of his dreams, where dreamlike experiences, external psycho-sensations, spiritual inspirations when although not prophetic always, make whole and define a reality.
(ANS – Turin) – St John Bosco's deep faith in Jesus Christ was manifested, during his life, also through a discreet and constant but intense, devotion to the Shroud, silent witness of the Passion and Resurrection of the Saviour of the world. To deepen Don Bosco's connection with Sacred Linen, as part of its usual review of podcasts related to Shroud literature, the International Centre for Shroud Studies (CISS) dedicated an episode to the Father and Teacher of Young People.
(ANS – Vatican City) – The Vatican also joins the Salesian Family in celebrating the dream that St John Bosco had at nine years of age, which inspired all his work and his charism; and it does so through a stamp and a special stamp cancellation dedicated to this important anniversary.
PHOTO GALLERY
INTERVIEWS
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Democratic Republic of Congo – Fr Owoudou on the situation in the eastern parts of the country: “No matter how dark the night may seem, dawn will inevitably come”
(ANS - Goma) - During his latest phase of the Extraordinary Visit to the "Mary Most Holy Assumption" Province of Central Africa (AFC), Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, Councillor for the Africa Madagascar Region, conducted an interview with the magazine "JAMBO VIJANA," representing the youth engaged in the Salesian works of the Province's Eastern Delegation. Addressing the ongoing violence and conflicts in the region, Fr. Owoudou expressed hope, saying: "No matter the length of the night, dawn will inevitably come."
EDITORIAL
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“Speaking with the Heart”: A great Antidote for the Ills of today’s world
‘Revolutionize the world with your kindness, by speaking with your heart’, is the dream that Pope Francis envisions for humanity through his 57th World Communication Day message, that falls on this Ascension Sunday, 21st May 2023. ‘Speak with your heart in truth and charity’, and this is the best antidote that can cure the ills of today’s society.
EVENTS
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Italy – "Labs To Future": the final event of the "Labs To Learn" project in Valdocco
(ANS – Turin) – The final event of the "Labs to Learn" project was held on Tuesday, 5 March 2024, entitled "Labs To Future: The path – The results – The challenges" . The project was selected by the "Con i Bambini" social enterprise within the framework of the Foundation for the Fight against Child Educational Poverty and came into being with the intention of combating early school leaving and preventing educational poverty, increasing the number of young people with difficulties who fulfil their school obligation, access higher education and/or job placement, and opening the way for personal growth according to their inclinations and aspirations.
SPECIAL REPORTS
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Peru – Centenary of the High Altar of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Lima
(ANS – Lima) – The centenary of the consecration of the high altar in the Crypt of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Lima was celebrated on 19 March, on the feast of St Joseph and in homage to Fr José Calasanz Marqués, then Provincial of the Salesians in Peru and Bolivia – now recognised as Blessed by the Church – on account of his name.
MESSAGES OF THE RECTOR MAJOR
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DREAMS THAT KEEP COMING TRUE!
THE MESSAGE OF THE RECTOR MAJOR, Card. Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB
When reflecting on all this, I feel I have a little authority to say: “Dear Don Bosco, your Dream is still VERY ALIVE.”