Pascual Chavez Villanueva – “You are the salt of the earth… you are the light of the world” (Mt 5,13-14) Presentation of the East Asia – Oceania Region” in “Acts of the General Council of the Salesian Society of St John Bosco”

In this letter, the author discusses the East Asia-Oceania Salesian Region, highlighting its unique challenges and opportunities. They emphasize the importance of Christianity’s role in diverse cultures, stressing the need for inculturation while maintaining a clear Christian identity. The author reflects on the Region’s history, recent developments, and the importance of missionary zeal, especially in contexts where Christianity is a minority. They underscore the commitment to evangelization and dialogue with local cultures and religions as essential aspects of Salesian mission in the Region.

Contents:

• 1. Brief general presentation of the Region
  • Social situation
  • Cultural context
  • Presence of the Catholic Church
  • Consecrated life
• 2. How Don Bosco arrived and his charism has grown
  
• • Don Bosco’s missionary inclination was first towards Asia
  • Some historical items, starting from Don Bosco’s missionary dreams
  • Don Bosco was there before the Salesians
  • A missionary region
• 3. Presentation of the Region from a Salesian standpoint
  • The Salesians
  • Community life
  • Kinds of Salesian works and activity: Youth ministry
    • Formation
    • Missionary commitment and inculturation of the charism
    • Social communication
    • Salesian Family
    • Financial solidarity
    • Salesian holiness
• 4. Charismatic experiences of greater significance (in the various Provinces)
• 5. Some challenges
• 6. Conclusion
  • “I am always with you”

Reference time period: 2007

Reference institution:
Direzione Generale SDB