The activities began on the afternoon of 19 March in a warm and welcoming atmosphere amongst the participants. Following an initial fraternal gathering at the CRESCO América community, the brothers moved to the former novitiate house on the shores of Lake Chapala, where the community experience formally began.
On 20 March, the day began with the celebration of the Eucharist, presided over by Fr Francisco Cervantes, SDB, MEG Provincial, who subsequently addressed those present, encouraging them to live the Salesian vocation authentically. Throughout the day, three formation sessions took place, allowing for a deeper exploration of the central theme of the gathering. These sessions featured the virtual participation of Fr Juan José Bartolomé, SDB; Fr Jorge Tournour, SDB; and Brother Mario Olmos, SDB. The formation sessions were accompanied by moments of personal reflection and community dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the vocational call.
On 21 March, the final day of the gathering, the Eucharist was celebrated, presided over by Fr Felipe Carranza, SDB, MEG Vice-Provincial. Subsequently, the participants gathered to summarise their experiences, sharing significant insights and lessons learnt. The gathering concluded with a time of fraternal fellowship, marked by joy and a family spirit.
Ten Brothers took part in this gathering, four of whom are currently undergoing initial formation at CRESCO and six of whom are professed with perpetual vows. The participants came from various provinces: MEG, MEM, CAM, ECU, UNG and BCG, thus enriching the gathering with the diversity of experiences and realities within the Congregation.
These days were deeply characterised by sharing, fraternity, faith and charismatic unity, reaffirming the commitment of the Salesian Coadjutors to their vocation and mission in the Church and amongst young people.
