(ANS – Rome) – The history of the “Saint Francis de Sales” Province of France and Southern Belgium (FRB) began exactly 150 years ago, in 1875, during Don Bosco’s lifetime, when the Salesian Congregation had no provinces, and everything was directly managed by the General Chapter. Don Bosco responded to an appeal from the Saint Vincent de Paul Conference in Nice, establishing the first Salesian work in France—an oratory with an assistance program and a vocational school—sending the first three Salesians, including the Rector, Fr. Giovanni Giuseppe Ronchail, a 25-year-old Italian who had just professed for three years. This marked the foundation of the first Salesian community in France.
(ANS - Rome) – The "Mary Help of Christians" Byzantine Rite Vice-Province in Ukraine (UKR) is a remarkable example of the inculturation of the Salesian Charism within the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. This Church is one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches sui iuris, deeply rooted in the liturgical and theological traditions of the Byzantine Rite. The Vice-Province includes Ukrainian Salesians of the Byzantine Rite, also known as Greek Catholic Salesians.
(ANS – Rome) - The Salesians of Don Bosco have a rich history of service in Korea, beginning in 1954 in the aftermath of the devastating Korean War. From the ashes of a war-torn nation, the Salesians have grown into a dynamic and forward-looking province, addressing the ever-changing needs of youth through education, pastoral care, and social outreach. Rooted in the charism of Don Bosco, the Korean Province continues to expand its influence locally and internationally, preparing for future challenges while staying faithful to its mission.
(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Province of the Middle East, dedicated to "Jesus the Adolescent" (MOR), was canonically established on January 20, 1902, following a request to the Holy See by the then Rector Major, Fr. Michele Rua. Only ten years had passed since the arrival of the first Salesians in the Holy Land: they arrived in three groups in 1891—on June 15, September 8, and December 29.
(ANS – Rome) – Randazzo, a town on the slopes of Mount Etna in the Province of Catania, has a deep-rooted Salesian presence. In 1877, the Municipality of Randazzo sought to establish a technical school, and upon the suggestion of the Bishop of Acireale, they invited Don Bosco to take charge. Don Bosco sent 10 Salesians, led by Fr. Pietro Guidazio. Before departing, Guidazio received Don Bosco's blessing and reassured him, saying: “Do not fear, in Randazzo, you will accomplish great things.”
(ANS – Rome) – The journey of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Vietnam is a tale of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the education and spiritual growth of the youth. This narrative spans over eight decades, marked by significant milestones and challenges that have shaped the Salesian mission in Vietnam.