“We are of many different nationalities: we can work together and have this fraternal affection in the name of the Lord, with Saint John Bosco,” said Fr Á.F. Aritme, last June 26, during an informal visit to the minor basilica located in the Cinecittà district.
The X Successor of Don Bosco presided over the Eucharist in the Roman temple, and during the homily, he also told the faithful about the ordinary activity of the General Council. He emphasized how he and his first collaborators in the leadership of the Congregation, through their visits to different parts of the world, were able to enjoy a privileged view of the great good being achieved in the name of Don Bosco throughout the world, and how this stimulates us to focus attention on common work for the good of children, who, as Don Bosco said, are "the most delicate portion of human society".
In thanking Fr Á.F. Artime and the General Council members, parish priest Fr Roberto Colameo, on behalf of the comunity, illustrated the pastoral work they carried out despite the pandemic-related restrictions: above all, the work in favor of those who have lost everything. Through the Caritas volunteers, through the Listening Center, the canteen for the area's poor and the delivery of food packages, the Parish has become close to families in difficulty. A closeness, therefore, not only spiritual, but also human, which made itself present indeed with basic necessities.
The Rector Major and the other members of the General Council then concluded the visit with a moment of fraternity and informal dialogue with the religious of the Salesian communities present in the large “Don Bosco” building in Cinecittà.
On 29 June, the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Patrons of Rome, Msgr. Lorenzelli visited the Basilica. For the prelate, it was a welcome return to the Don Bosco Temple, which he knew well, having been, between 2008 and 2012, Superior of the Circumscription of Central Italy.
On the occasion, Msgr. Lorenzelli was also able to meet the participants of the Youth Summer Camp organized by the Salesian parish - the first summer experience after the lockdown - which this year sees the participation of about 160 young people aged 6 to 13, and about 40 animators, volunteers, Salesians and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/13271-italy-illustrious-visits-to-rome-s-don-bosco-basilica-foster-community-supporting-children#sigProId369468bd06
