Explicit references to the life and teachings of Saint Francis de Sales figure greatly into Don Albera’s retreat instructions during the eighteen years he served as Catechist General (1892-1910). Although Don Albera quoted other writers more extensively, he developed a number of “Salesian” themes typical to the spiritual teachings of the gentle Bishop of Geneva. He complemented patron’s teaching with ideas that he derived from the founder, that is, from Saint John Bosco.
In this paper we briefly examine some of the essential elements of spirituality and religious life as Don Albera mined them from the writings and teachings of his patron and founder. Continue reading “Joseph Boenzi – “Paolo Albera presenting the teachings of Saint Francis de Sales to young Salesians in formation” in “La parola e la storia: uno sguardo Salesiano. Studi in onore del prof. Morand Wirth””