The last stage of Fr Romero's Extraordinary Visitation was the Salesian presence of Santa Luzia, in Jardim Nordeste, where the Regional Councilor, as part of a vast program of activities, spoke with the parish councils, the Salesian Family, the young people of the Salesian Youth Movement and the members of the Pastoral. He also offered the thoughts of the Salesian "good morning" and "good night".
It was Fr Gabriel's first Extraordinary Visitation to the BSP Province. "The idea was always to visit each of the Salesian presences, where I would stay for three or four days, depending on the complexity of my presence in that city, in that work. I visited the various sectors, parishes, schools, university centers, the works, and many other activities, trying to get to know the tasks that are carried out there and to dialogue with the team leaders," explained Fr Romero.
In light of the recommendation of the 28th General Chapter on collaboration between Salesians and laity, Fr Romero shared: "I noticed that this experience has existed in this Province for many years, with many lay people working in the Provincial Center and the various teams, or who are also employed in the works, even as Rectors. This is very good. Perceiving and sharing this beautiful reality, and continuing to develop it more and more, is a very beautiful experience."
Fr Romero suggested the Rectors focus on continuing to consolidate the consecrated identity of the Salesians increasingly more, which then has to do with fraternal life and the life of prayer. This is a fundamental area for growing and maturing on an individual level as consecrated Salesian religious.
Also, the Regional Councilor stressed the importance of giving continuity to the mission, to the work shared by the laity, entrusting them with responsibility, and making sure that more families know the charism in parishes, schools, and university centers. Vital, too, spreading the good that is being done via social communication, ensuring that everyone is aware of it and can benefit from it as well as heightening a sense of belonging, were other recommendations offered.
In his concluding message, Fr Romero said: “First of all, a word of thanks. I perceived in all the Salesian presences, in all the works a very cohesive effort, with a great desire to serve the young, to be close to the people, to the poorest young people. This is why my message is: continue in this spirit which is part of our charism, but which also has to do with the daily construction of unity and sharing."
"Then," he continued, "the priority must always be young people, and for this reason, the invitation to the Salesians and the Rectors has always been to not forget and to be concerned about being present among them to listen to them, accompany them and be close to their research and their processes."
"This is an invitation to the Salesians and to those who work with us, to always favor the presence among young people, fostering the missionary spirit to which Pope Francis and also the Rector Major call us, to reach other young people who are not part of our works and that we can help," he said finally.
Larissa Freitas – Comunicação ISSP
