During the meeting, numerous topics for reflection were offered. First, the presentation and study of the renewed text on "The Oratory-Youth Centre" from the Youth Ministry Framework, published in several languages. The Delegates shared what was new and relevance of the reflection for the respective Provinces. It was recalled that the Oratory gives a particular charismatic colour to the Salesian house and that it is organically integrated into the pastoral care of each house; the economic sustainability of the sector and the various operating models in Europe were discussed. The importance of the presence of Salesians in this environment was also shared, since it continues to be an experience of evangelisation, prevention, transformation and vocational and missionary growth.
Secondly, the reflection focused on a motivating document on "First Announcement and Salesian Youth Ministry", written by Fr García Morcuende. All young people should have the opportunity to explore the faith wherever they are geographically and also in their own journey of faith. It was insisted that the best way to start this announcement is from person to person, as friends or through one's own story. The General Councillor, for his part, said that "in evangelization, the first thing is to fall in love with Jesus; without this conversion the first announcement is not possible. We must be more witnesses than teachers."
Thirdly, a dialogue on vocational animation took place. It reflected on the situation and the strategies that are being used and highlighted the promotion of a "vocational culture", with the aim of promoting the concept of life as a vocation. It was stressed that this responsibility does not belong only to the religious community, but it is a task for everyone. One of the most significant challenges is to promote experiences accompanied by communities, which facilitate a path of following Jesus for specific religious vocations, based on adequate accompaniment. "We need communities and Salesians who know how to infuse energy, pastoral passion, enthusiasm and positivity", he stressed on the occasion.
A morning was dedicated to the presentation of the work with the Provincial Coordinators of the schools and of Don Bosco International in Europe. Antonio Rodríguez and Sara Sechi, members of the Youth Ministry Sector, presented inspiring ideas for the European Provinces.
The visit to the house at Atocha and the idea of coordinating the entire work around a single project were highly appreciated. Particularly rich was the moment of prayer with young people from the Youth Centre.
The working days, led by Fr García Morcuende, always opened with a Lectio Divina offered by Fr Francisco Cervantes, a member of the Youth Ministry Sector, following the Gospel text (Mk 3:13 -19) that guides the convocation of the 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation. In addition, several best practices developed in the various Provinces of Europe were presented, compared and discussed.
Other themes of dialogue and reflection concerned the Salesian Synod of Youth, one of the initiatives for the celebration of the bicentenary of Don Bosco's Dream at nine years of age in 2024; the joint formation of Salesian laity; some information provided by Antonella Synagoga on processes accompanying the text "A Salesian youth ministry that educates in love"; initiatives promoted by the Youth Ministry Sector on mental health; and the Upper Formation Course for lay people in Europe.
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/20243-spain-salesian-youth-ministry-for-europe-of-a-thousand-colours#sigProId301acd25d7
