Pascual Chavez Villanueva – “I give thanks to God each time I remember You” (Phil 1,3). Presentation of the Western European Region” in “Acts of the General Council of the Salesian Society of St John Bosco”

The letter extends warm greetings and gratitude to the recipients in the Western European Region. It acknowledges the region’s growth and contributions to the Salesian Congregation. Recent events, including a joint retreat and youth gatherings, are highlighted. The letter also addresses media allegations regarding abuse, with provincial leaders denying any institutional policy and reaffirming commitment to accountability and youth welfare.

Contents:

• Don Bosco in France, Spain, Portugal and Southern Belgium
• The beginnings, a successful planting of the charism
• Spectacular development
• Today’s cultural, social and religious situation
• Salesian situation in the Region
• A word about the different Works
• Youth ministry
• Social communication
• Missionary dimension
• The Salesian Family
• Initial and subsequent formation
• Ongoing formation
• Challenges facing the Region
• Lines of action
• 1. Develop a specific kind of vocational animation that bears witness to community life and the fruitfulness of the mission
  • 1.1. Ensure the conditions for each community to live a true spiritual experience and be a witness to the faith that can be perceived by the young
  • 1.2. Create a new kind of truly meaningful salesian presence, attractive and inviting for young people with evangelisation as its first objective
• 2. Implement the consequent changes needed in the life and organisation of the Provinces and of the Region

Reference time period: 2004

Reference institution:
Direzione Generale SDB