In the parishes, social evangelization take place through educational courses and workshops such as: language teaching, computer science, marketing, digital sound production, music recording studios, theater, crafts and music. Even though the official scholastic titles are granted by the government, a diploma is awarded at the end of the course.
Camagüey, Cuba, is a city of 300,000 inhabitants, located in the eastern region, and this year it celebrates the centenary of the arrival of the Salesians (1917). It was Cuba's first Salesian presence, a place where Don Bosco's missionaries settled and where, happily, three of the four Salesians who arrived here are now blessed.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Charity hosts the most widespread and deepest devotion; around her, the "santeria", syncretism and faithful Catholics gather. The parish belongs to the diocese and the Salesians work and coordinate various groups: reception teams, catechists, marriage preparation, Salesian Family (Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Salesian Cooperators, Association of Mary Help of Christians, Past Pupils), pastoral care, apostolate of mercy, a refectory for 40 seniors and a monthly food kit for 12 families.
"The main platform for evangelization is the parish. It's where Salesians work with the Preventive System in the various groups," said Miguel Ángel Fernández, Salesian Missionary to Camagüey.
The three Salesians of Camagüey take care of the Shrine, three chapels and 24 rural communities they visit weekly. The approach with young people takes place through workshops, weekly training meetings, moments of sharing, retreats and summer pastoral camps ...
In addition, there is also the oratory which opens to the youngsters of the nearby neighborhoods. After playing sports, they are offered moments of human and Christian formation. Despite the historical and political situation, Salesians are, indeed, among the country's young people.
