RMG – Goodnight talk of the Rector Major at the Conclusion of the Winter Session of the General Council

23 December 2025

(ANS – Rome) - In the traditional ‘Salesian goodnight’ talk at the conclusion of the Winter Session of the General Council yesterday, Monday 22 December 2025, the Rector Major, Fr Fabio Attard, addressed his confreres at the Central Headquarters with a summary reflection aimed at understanding and implementing the Strenna for 2026, inspired by the Gospel theme of the Wedding at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you.”

In his message, drawing inspiration from the Gospel passage of the wedding at Cana, the Rector Major proposed a unified framework articulated around four verbs, presented as reference criteria for the life, discernment and service of Salesians working at the Generalate.

First of all, to look at the reality of the Congregation and the world with attention and responsibility, grasping the signs of the times starting from a thorough knowledge of Don Bosco and the Salesian charism, as an essential basis for every service of animation and government.

Secondly, to listen to the reality in the light of the Word of God and spiritual life, avoiding merely functional readings of the processes underway and recognising that only listening rooted in faith allows one to accompany current challenges with clarity.

The third verb, to choose, stressing the need for responsible and free discernment, based on a solid evangelical and charismatic identity, capable of dialoguing with cultural, social and technological changes and of guiding the decisions of the central government with balance and foresight.

Finally, with the verb to act, indicating a style of service characterised by inner freedom, availability and generosity, without personal interests or self-protection, witnessing in the daily life of the community what the Central Office is called to promote throughout the Congregation.

During the goodnight, the Rector Major also drew attention to confreres who are experiencing particular difficulties and persecution in various parts of the world, inviting everyone to be close to them in constant prayer and discreet and concrete solidarity.

The Rector Major then presented a summary of the main activities of the General Council carried out during the winter session, highlighting some significant data relating to the work accomplished.

Between 24 November and 23 December 2025, the General Council met a total of 22 times, addressing the main issues of animation and governance of the Congregation. In addition to the Council meetings, more than 20 interregional and intersectoral meetings were held during the Session, aimed at coordinating the Dicasteries and sharing in-depth discussions on topics of common interest.

During the same period, 14 Provincials, 28 Provincial Councillors, 80 Directors and 1 Novice Master were appointed, ensuring the continuity of leadership and formation in the various provincial contexts.

In terms of structures, 7 houses were canonically established and 5 were canonically closed, while 4 non-canonical houses were opened, with no further closures of this type.

In conclusion, the Rector Major expressed his gratitude to the Vicar, the Councillors, the Sector collaborators and all the staff at the Central Office for their work and for the fraternal atmosphere that characterises the life of the community. Finally, he entrusted the journey of the Congregation to the protection of Mary Help of Christians, inviting everyone to live the service they have received with fidelity, responsibility and availability.

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