Profound Mysticism in Salesian Life

The Profound Mysticism in Salesian Life

(ANS – Turin – February 17, 2025) – “Dear confreres, I have chosen as the theme of our spiritual retreat the perspective of the mysticism of our Salesian life. It is in fact there, that the apostolic project of Don Bosco is found, which we are invited to make our own, and it is there that our entire charismatic identity resides.” With these words, Fr. Pascual Chavez, rector major emeritus, inaugurated the spiritual retreat for the participants of the 29th General Chapter. He was entrusted with leading the meditations which, over 3 days, will help participants reflect and prepare for the decisions to be made.

The morning and afternoon of the second day were dedicated to listening and meditation, also enriched by the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Eunan McDonnell, the Irish provincial.

In the course of his reflections, Fr. Chavez reminded the participants: “Our Salesian consecrated life is a path that begins with the love of Jesus, who fixed his gaze upon us, loved us, called us, and seized us. This means that our entire consecrated life is marked by love and must be lived under its sign. It cannot be lived without joy, even in moments of trial and difficulty. From here flows the serenity, the radiance, and the fruitfulness of consecrated life, which make it captivating.”

This awareness, Fr. Chavez explained, is the foundation for the Salesian who dedicates himself to young people, helping them overcome the sufferings caused by the sin of the world. “Total dedication to the mission on behalf of young people, especially the poorest, the needy, and those at risk, is the most concrete way in which, by following Christ, we can live Christian love. This love will always involve self-denial and, at times, will provoke the hatred of the world.”

During Mass, Fr. McDonnell offered a reflection on the gospel, emphasizing the need for a change in perspective to draw closer to God’s way of seeing things. “We must learn to go to the other shore, because his thoughts are not our thoughts, his ideas are not our ideas.” He then invited the delegates to an examination of conscience: “Are our strategies truly God’s will, or are we, like the Pharisees, trying to fit God into our expectations?”

Fr. McDonnell also shared a personal experience that helped him move beyond a merely human perspective and better understand the need to place trust in God. While praying along a windswept beach, he observed a dog running against the wind and seagulls allowing themselves to be carried by the air currents. “We can enter this general chapter with certain expectations, but we must allow ourselves to be surprised by God, trusting in his guidance.”

All official photos of GC29 are on Flickr.