Wim Collin – “My beloved son…Accompaniment by Don Bosco in the letters to some young people” in “Journal of salesian studies”

Don Bosco’s correspondence is difficult to categorise because of the varied nature of the letters. Many were written by Don Bosco or his secretaries, with the latter often signing on his behalf. The considerable amount of incoming letters, combined with Don Bosco’s declining health in recent years, led to this practice.Letters can be categorised by recipient, such as those to important figures, officials, Salesians, lay people, Salesian Cooperators and benefactors, as well as young people. Alternatively, they can be categorised by subject, including organizational, spiritual and financial aspects. However, many letters deal with multiple topics. It is important to note that Don Bosco’s letters to young people vary in nature, requiring in-depth study. Two examples include a letter from Henri Vonck of Ypres, Belgium, on behalf of his father, and another from Jeanne van Cutsem asking for prayers. These examples highlight the multifaceted nature of Don Bosco’s correspondence with young people.

Reference time period: 2023

Reference institution:
Institute of Salesian Studies

Centro Studi Don Bosco