The celebration brought together various dimensions: spiritual, community-based, and reflective. It began at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Castro Pretorio, the spiritual center of the “Sacro Cuore” Salesian Mission, where the Salesians of the Central Headquarters led a Marian Rosary.

This was followed by a solemn Eucharistic concelebration, presided over by the Vicar of the Rector Major, Fr. Stefano Martoglio, with hymns and liturgical animation prepared by the novices of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA). Among those present were Fr. José Aníbal Mendonça, Superior of the “Mary Seat of Wisdom” Vice Province of the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS), several confreres from the UPS, Salesians from the “Blessed Ceferino Namuncurá” community on Via della Bufalotta, and members from various other houses of the Central Italy Province (ICC).

In his homily, Fr. Martoglio highlighted the Salesian coadjutor saint as a model to look up to—one who should inspire every Christian to ask: “Why don't I become like him?” He emphasized that each act of goodness performed by Zatti was simply a generous response to God’s prior love, which, as in the lives of all saints, was abundantly poured out.

Referring to the day’s readings, the Vicar underlined especially the gift of Wisdom in St. Artemide Zatti’s life—a light of holiness that continues to inspire and draw people today. He noted Zatti’s ability to “live as if seeing the invisible,” resisting worldly temptations because he remained deeply rooted in God’s presence.

“The holiness of St. Artemide Zatti, is a great grace for all of us, reminds us that the Lord not only saves us but also heals us!” he added, pointing to the active, practical dimension of Zatti’s holiness. It reflects God’s work in caring for the human person in a complete way, “lifting up the one who otherwise would not be able to rise alone.”

“May St. Artemide Zatti sustain our lives, the life of the Congregation, and that of the Salesian Family!” Fr. Martoglio concluded.

The celebration continued with a short moment of reflection and deepening, coordinated by Br. Paolo Vaschetto SDB of UPS, which helped highlight key aspects of Zatti’s life and his importance for the Church, the Congregation, and the entire Salesian Family.

The first talk, given by Fr. Samuel Amaglo SDB of UPS, explored Zatti as a “missionary,” showing how—even without an official mandate—he was truly a missionary by being an authentic witness of God’s merciful love among the people, in the spirit of Don Bosco.

Then Sr. Francesca Caggiano, FMA, presented a parallel between the last two canonized saints of the Salesian Family, St. Artemide Zatti and St. Maria Troncatti, highlighting the many, often hidden, traits they shared (her reflection is available here).

Finally, the parish priest of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Fr. Javier Ortíz SDB, spoke about the painting of St. Artemide Zatti displayed in the church, explaining its history, origins, symbolism, and details.

The festive evening concluded with a moment of fraternal fellowship for all those present.

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