In this passage, the author reflects on Don Bosco’s unwavering dedication to his mission, despite the immense physical and emotional toll it took on him. The image of Don Bosco walking beneath a rose arbor, where unseen thorns caused him constant pain, symbolizes the hardships he endured in his pursuit of his divine calling. The narrative focuses on a two-year period in Don Bosco’s life, highlighting his tireless work in managing his growing Congregation, overseeing his sacred ministry, handling numerous business matters, and dealing with adversarial opposition. Despite his deteriorating health, Don Bosco’s commitment to his mission remained steadfast. The text also incorporates insights from Blessed Claude de La Colombière, who offers a perspective on the intense apostolic work that shaped Don Bosco’s life.
INDEX
- Don Bosco’s Visit to the Salesian Houses in France
- The Annual Conferences of St. Francis de Sales
- Four Weeks in Rome
- First Steps Toward Closing the Oratory’s Secondary School
- Return Trip to Turin
- The Soul of the Oratory
- Shutdown of the Oratory School
- The First Triennial Report to the Holy See on the State of the Congregation
- The Girls’ Festive Oratory at Chieri
- Conversion of a Young Jewess
- Salesian Missionaries in Patagonia
- Unrealized New Foundations in 1879
- Salesian Houses Opened in 1879
- Gleanings from the Year 1879
- At the Beginning of a New Year
Reference time period: 1985
E. Ceria, “The biographical memoirs of Saint John Bosco Vol. 14“, Salesiana Publisher, INC., New York 1985.