RMG – SDB Provinces: The “Christ the King and Mary Help of Christians” Province of Mexico-Guadalajara (MEG)

13 March 2025
RMG – SDB Provinces: The “Christ the King and Mary Help of Christians” Province of Mexico-Guadalajara (MEG)

(ANS – Rome) – The Province was founded on August 30, 1963, and was canonically established by the Rector Major, Fr. Renato Ziggiotti. "By virtue of the special faculty granted to us by the aforementioned Rescript, we, Fr. Renato Ziggiotti, Rector Major of the Society of St. Francis de Sales, after careful consideration and with the consent of the Superior Chapter, divide or separate the Province of 'Our Lady of Guadalupe' in Mexico and canonically establish a new Province with the title 'Blessed Virgin Mary, Help of Christians,' with its headquarters in the city of Guadalajara, in accordance with other legal provisions and clauses attached to the said Rescript" (Turin, August 30, 1963).

Throughout the history of the Province, several experiences have fostered unity and strengthened the sense of fraternity and belonging among Salesians. These include the Provincial Christmas Posada (Novena celebration recalling the Holy Family’s search for boarding at Bethlehem) and the Assembly of the Provincial Community—occasions for gathering, reflection, and reaffirming commitment to a shared mission. Additionally, ongoing formation, annual Spiritual Retreats (which are also shared with lay collaborators), and meetings of Commissions and Delegations contribute to its pastoral and community life.

Pastoral Activities

The Province actively supports the vast and dynamic Salesian Youth Movement (SYM), organizes inter-Salesian sports tournaments that bring together schools from across the Province, and hosts the annual Provincial Oratory Festival, where young people share cultural, sports, and fraternal experiences to foster leadership and friendship with Christ. Other key gatherings include those for catechists, acolytes, psycho-pedagogical departments, and parents.

Salesians in MEG

The Province of MEG consists of 130 Salesians:

  • 106 priests
  • 8 brothers
  • 16 in initial formation
  • 19 with temporary vows
  • 111 with perpetual vows
  • 1 novice

Presence and Works

The MEG Province comprises 25 communities across 13 Mexican states:

  • 13 communities have oratories, with a total of 23 oratories across the Province.
  • 18 communities administer churches (sanctuaries, parishes, or chapels), with Salesians managing a total of 53 places of worship.
  • 11 communities run 15 schools, plus an additional 5 educational programs based in oratories.
  • 3 Vocational Training Centers.
  • 6 formally established social works with dedicated spaces, permanent staff, and structured programs. Additional social services are also provided in oratories and parishes.

Key Statistics

  • Oratories serve approximately 20,000 people, offering 24 Masses each week attended by 2,400 faithful. Catechism programs reach 1,973 participants, guided by 130 catechists. The SYM has 1,303 members across its groups. Summer activities engage 4,000 children in courses and 600 in summer camps.
  • Churches and Parishes provide pastoral support to around 17,500 people, celebrating 287 weekly Masses. Sacramental preparation programs serve 3,039 individuals, assisted by 302 catechists. The SYM in these settings includes 233 children and young people.
  • Schools educate 15,124 students, supported by 1,493 staff members. Approximately 1,749 students participate in SYM associations.
  • Social Works include key projects like the Tijuana Shelter and Meal Program, the "Niños Don Bosco" hostels in León, and the Colima family home. Across various communities—including Irapuato, Mexicali, Tlaquepaque, and Nuevo Laredo—these initiatives provide weekly support to between 3,000 and 8,000 people.

The Salesian Family

Alongside the Salesians of Don Bosco, several other groups contribute to the Salesian mission in MEG:

  • The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA)
  • Salesian Cooperators
  • Volunteers of Don Bosco
  • Lay Volunteers of Don Bosco
  • The Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary
  • Past Pupils of Don Bosco
  • The Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA)

Key Projects

Salesian Project in Tijuana

Located on the country's northern border, this initiative operates five oratories that also function as youth centers offering cultural and sports activities. It includes:

  • A Meal and Reception Center, providing over 1,500 people daily with nutritious meals, showers, social, and medical assistance.
  • A dedicated shelter for vulnerable women.

Ciudad Juárez House

Also in the northern border region, this project serves a city marked by violence and poverty. It runs four oratories with programs aimed at:

  • Combating educational poverty and school dropout rates.
  • Supporting social, economic, and job reintegration through technical training and entrepreneurship programs.

"Niños Don Bosco" Project (PNDB)

This project consists of:

  • Patio Don Bosco: A first-contact space providing informal learning and recreational activities for street children.
  • Valdocco Don Bosco: A second-stage care facility offering shelter, a balanced diet, school support, psychological assistance, and parenting classes.
  • Ciudad del Niño (CDN): A formal educational program that equips beneficiaries with life skills and opportunities for comprehensive development.
  • Social Reintegration Program for At-Risk Youth: Providing regulated professional training and promoting the reintegration of young people into society.

A video showcasing the diverse and impactful Salesian activities in MEG is available on ANSChannel.

View the embedded image gallery online at:
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/23723-rmg-sdb-provinces-the-christ-the-king-and-mary-help-of-christians-province-of-mexico-guadalajara-meg#sigProIdc5ef38447f

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