The years 1884-1885 were pivotal in Don Bosco’s life, marked by significant achievements and challenges. During this period, he made important visits to France and Rome, participated in the National Exhibit of Turin, and oversaw the foundation of Salesian missions in Paris, Barcelona, and Brazil. He also appointed Father Michael Rua as vicar general, ensuring the continuation of the Salesian Congregation after his death. Despite worsening health, Don Bosco focused on consolidating his work, reorganizing the Oratory, and strengthening the Pious Union of the Cooperators. His holiness gained worldwide recognition, with people from all walks of life seeking his counsel and prayers. Pope Leo XIII expressed deep admiration for him, acknowledging the supernatural inspiration behind his accomplishments. During this time, Don Bosco’s visionary dreams extended the future of Salesian missions, foreseeing their expansion to South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
INDEX
- New Year’s Day visits, lectures, and Don Bosco ‘s sickness
- Through Liguria to France and again through Liguria on the return journey
- A month in Rome – the Sacred Heart Church and a Papal audience – a dream about the past and present life in the Oratory – the return journey through Florence and Bologna
- The Granting of Privileges
- Don Bosco at the Oratory from the Feast of Mary Help of Christians to the Feast of St. John and the Big Lottery in Rome
- Life at the Oratory
- Don Bosco ‘s Sojourn in Pinerolo
- The Cholera Epidemic of 1884
- Don Bosco and the National Exhibit of Turin
- A Father’s Testament and a Pope’s Plan
- The First Salesian Bishop
- Requests for and Foundations of Houses Outside Italy in 1884
- Some Practical Rules and the Story of Two Dreams
- Correspondence Concerning the Year 1884
Reference time period: 2002
E. Ceria, “The biographical memoirs of Saint John Bosco Vol. 17“, Salesiana Publisher, INC., New York 2002.