Italy – Spirituality Days, the Rector Major hands over the 7 beatitudes of the Salesian Family

14 January 2019

(ANS – Turin) – The final session of the 37th Salesian Family Spirituality Days took place on Sunday 13 January. After solemn Mass in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin, which saw the participation of 16 Major Superiors or Presidents of various groups of the Salesian Family, a summary of what had been shared among the 350 participants was made in the grand theatre at Valdocco.

Earlier, on Saturday the 12th, Prof. Francesc Torralba from Barcelona, starting out from Pope Francis’ Magisterium, had shown how the road to holiness is always one that leads us to go out of ourselves. Following this, Sr Lucy Nderi, FMA, and a young leader, Elisa, spoke of their experience of taking part in the activities of the recent Synod.

Then, after the round table discussion involving 8 members of the Salesian Family who shared their personal discovery of the call to Salesian holiness, the third day concluded with the Musical “Arte di Giò”.

On Sunday, at the conclusion of these days which have been so rich in inspiration, testimonies and reflections, Fr Á.F. Artime insisted, during the Mass, on three fundamental concepts on the road to holiness: unity which overcomes barriers;  a missionary outlook which helps by accepting others; community which makes our witness to communion credible.

Finally, in the theatre, the 10th Successor of Don Bosco presented the “Seven beatitudes of the Salesian family”, drawn up by the various working groups over these days.

#HOLINESS FOR YOU TOO: THE BEATITUDES OF THE SALESIAN FAMILY

1. Blessed is the Salesian Family that finds joy in poverty, imbued with God’s grace, it will work amongst the poorest and marginalised youth – this is holiness!

2. Blessed is the Salesian Family that embodies the docility and love of the Good Shepherd. It thus welcomes and accompanies youth with loving kindness, forming them toward dialogue and the welcoming of diversity - this is holiness!

3. Blessed is the Salesian Family that accompanies others, heals the wounds of those who suffer and gives hope to those who feel hopeless, thus bringing the joy of the Risen Christ – this is holiness!

4. Blessed is the Salesian Family that hungers and thirsts for justice and accompanies youth on their mission to actualise their life project within their families, in the workplace, and within political and social commitment – this is holiness!

5. Blessed is the Salesian Family that has a living experience of mercy, opening its eyes and heart to active listening and forgiving. It thus becomes a home that welcomes others – this is holiness!

6. Blessed is the Salesian Family that seeks to be authentic, whole and transparent whilst cultivating a loving gaze that goes beyond appearances and recognises the grace of God within each person – this is holiness!

7. Blessed is the Salesian Family, that draws from the truth of the Gospel and remains faithful to the charism of Don Bosco. It thus becomes yeast for a new humanity and joyfully embraces the joy of the Cross for the Kingdom of God – this is holiness!

A new video was also presented at the conclusion of the Spirituality Days. It is hope that it can be an aid for presenting the Strenna 2019 to youngsters (and not only them). The video, which was much appreciated by those present, is available on ANSChannel

The photos of the Days are available on ANSFlickr.

Further information is available on the website dedicated to the Days: http://salesianfamilydays.com 

Videos of the principal live moments are available on the ANS Facebook page.

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

This site also uses third-party cookies to improve user experience and for statistical purposes. By scrolling through this page or by clicking on any of its elements, you consent to the use of cookies. To learn more or to opt out, click "Further Information".