Beneath the Parisian sky stands Salésiens de Don Bosco. It is a beacon of faith and service. This religious congregation has a rich history rooted in helping young people.
The Salesians of Don Bosco were founded in 1859. John Bosco an Italian priest established the society. His mission was to aid poor and migrant youngsters. This was during the Industrial Revolution. The congregation got its name from Francis de Sales. He was a 17th-century bishop of Geneva. Bosco admired Sales’ simple spirituality and kindness.
The Salesians’ mission is the Christian perfection of its members. This is achieved through charity toward the young especially the poor. They also focus on educating boys for priesthood. The Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco are their associated women’s institute. The Association of Salesian Cooperators is their lay movement.
Back in 1845 Don Bosco opened a night school for boys. It was in Valdocco now part of Turin Italy. He opened more schools in the following years. In 1857 he created rules for his helpers. Pope Pius IX approved the rules in 1873. This was the formal recognition of the Society of Saint Francis de Sales.
The Society quickly grew. Houses were established in France and Argentina within a year. Their official publication the Salesian Bulletin first appeared in 1877. The Salesians expanded into other countries over the next decade. These included Austria Britain and Spain. They also expanded into South America. Don Bosco died in 1888. Still, the Society continued to grow.
By 1911 the Salesians had spread across the globe. They reached Colombia China and India. They also established themselves in South Africa Tunisia the United States and Venezuela.
Today the Society of Salésiens de Don Bosco remains active worldwide. In 2021 it had 14232 members in 1703 houses. As of 2023 Salesians are in over 130 countries.
Professor Boidi designed the Salesian coat of arms. It features a shining star a large anchor and a heart on fire. These symbolize faith hope and charity. Saint Francis de Sales represents the society’s patron. A small wood and high mountains signify the founder and members striving for perfection. Palm and laurel branches represent a virtuous life. The motto “Da mihi animas caetera tolle” means “Give me souls take away the rest”.
The Salesian logo combines elements from German and Brazilian provinces. It represents Don Bosco and the Salesians walking with the young worldwide. A globe signifies the global reach. A white stylized “S” represents an educational journey. An upward-pointing arrow rests on three legs symbolizing Saint John Bosco reaching out to the young. The three figures also represent reason religion and loving kindness.
The Rector Major and general council lead the Salesians of Don Bosco. Each of the ninety-four provinces has a Provincial leader. The General Chapter elects these officers every six years. A Rector or Director leads each local Salesian community.
Salesian communities run shelters schools and instruction centers. These serve youths and adults. They also operate boys’ clubs and community centers. Some manage parish churches. Salesians engage in publishing and mission work. The Salesian Bulletin appears in fifty-two editions and thirty languages.
In 1988 the Salesians created the Salesian Youth Movement. They also launched tertiary education works in the 1990s. Today they have over 58 colleges and universities. The Salesian Pontifical University in Rome is their official university.
Here at Salésiens de Don Bosco in Paris. Celebrations honor Don Bosco bringing people together. The Salesian spirit thrives offering hope and guidance.