“Be discreet and invisible, always ready to welcome and assist every pilgrim who arrives at our houses, prepared for any need.” This was the message shared during the first “Salesian goodnight” moment with the Jubilee volunteers now serving in the various Salesian houses in Rome: Don Bosco Center, Pius XI House, Borgo Ragazzi Don Bosco, Santa Maria della Speranza, Sacro Cuore, and others.
Training and Preparation
The volunteers arrived in Rome a few days early for orientation and formation. On Thursday the 25th, about 100 young volunteers began three days of prayer and preparation together at the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians house in Cinecittà. This time included a pilgrimage to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and a private visit to the new Don Bosco House Museum at the Salesian headquarters in Rome. A special moment was the meeting with the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, which gave everyone an added sense of purpose and encouragement in their service.
Welcoming the First Pilgrims
By Sunday afternoon, July 27, the volunteers were ready to welcome the first pilgrims arriving for the jubilee week.
A Testimony from the Field
Among the many young volunteers is Antonio Cini, SDB, a young Salesian in formation from the Central Italy Province (ICC), who shared a touching reflection about the experience and its deeper meaning.
"On Monday morning, I was really struck by the sight of so many young people arriving with their groups. They were tired but full of enthusiasm to live these days to the fullest—visiting Rome’s churches and artistic treasures, attending catecheses, and joining in the celebrations. It's beautiful to see so many members of the Salesian Family involved in this service: SDBs, FMAs, young animators, and even Cooperators with their children," he shared.
"This experience is very meaningful for me. I get to live it with people from Salesian houses across Italy who share the same charism and mission, though in different forms of life. These first few days have been filled not just with tasks to ensure the best hospitality, but also with many beautiful encounters—some with old friends, others with new faces."
The Hidden Power of Service
"Unfortunately, we can’t always take part in the events offered during the week alongside the young people from our houses, nor are we always front and center in our duties. But this reminds me that real service for others is just like this: humble, hidden, without demands or spotlights, focused entirely on doing good—and that’s so enriching for my personal growth."
"Even the vigil with the young people from the Salesian Youth Movement around the world, which closed Wednesday’s event, deeply moved me. So many young people, adults, Salesians, and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians from various houses in Italy came together to create a joyful and meaningful evening for everyone."
"Truly, as the Rector Major and the Mother General said during the final goodnight, young people are our hope and the courage for the future—if we dare to make bold choices together, guided by the Good Lord."
