For the beginning of our centennial celebration we are gathered together here as a family in the place where the Salesians established their first presence in the United States of America. When we compare our present- day situation with that at the moment of our arrival we find much for which we must be grateful to God.
The number of Salesians, men and women, has multiplied more than a hundredfold, especially if we add in also the laity who belong to our Family. Our works have developed greater quality and have been distributed over the vast area of this country. From a simple mission to immigrants they have developed into schools, technical schools, parishes, oratories and study centers. The name and spirit of Don Bosco has penetrated into society. His method of approach to the young and his style of education have been received with harmony and consent. The hundred years have not gone by in vain. Our investment in personnel, projects and energy has borne fruit. The seed sown by the first Salesians and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians has developed into a tree.
Reference time period: 1997
J. E. Vecchi, “Centennial celebration of the salesian presence in the United States of America. Homily in San Francisco, February 2, 1997” in «Journal of Salesian Studies», 8 (1997), 1, 1-4.
Reference institution:
Institute of Salesian Studies