7 March 2025
Dear Members of the General Chapter,
I am delighted to share a brief message during the General Chapter 29 – ‘Passionate with Jesus Christ, committed to young people”, following your discussion on the Salesian Family which is also of relevance to us as past pupils and friends of Don Bosco.
Your discussions on the Salesian Family resonate deeply with us, the past pupils and friends of Don Bosco, as we are an integral part of that family.
I appreciate your thoughtful reflection on the inclusion of people from different faith backgrounds within the Salesian Family. This is indeed a significant theme with profound implications for the future of the Congregation and the Salesian Family.
Don Bosco’s charism has a universal quality that can transcend religious boundaries while maintaining its distinctive spiritual core. The educational mission of Don Bosco is fundamentally humanistic and centred on the integral development of young people. Many of its core values—respect for human dignity, commitment to education, special attention to the marginalized, creating family-like environments, and the preventive system based on reason, religion, and loving-kindness—resonate with people of various faith traditions.
These members of the Salesian Family can authentically embody these values in their professional practice while bringing their own cultural and spiritual perspectives. This diversity enriches the educational community and helps the Salesian mission adapt to different contexts worldwide.
At our recent Extraordinary General World Assembly in Valdocco last October, we took significant steps in journeying together in synodality and be open to changes to ensure our continuity in the world of today. We approved amendments to our world statutes, aiming for greater inclusivity, a sharper focus on our mission, and a readiness for change to ensure our continued relevance. We are committed to a synodal approach to leadership, fostering collaborative progress.
We earnestly await the outcomes of the General Chapter 29’s deliberations on this vital theme. As a part of the Salesian Family, we are committed to journeying together in synodality, answering God’s call to continue caring for and saving souls. We strive to live as upright, active citizens and steadfast believers in the universal values promoted by Don Bosco’s charism.
In Don Bosco
Bryan Magro
President
World Confederation of Past Pupils of Don Bosco