GC29 Week of Discernment & Elections

A Week of Discernment & Elections

Toward the 11th Successor of Don Bosco and the General Councilors

(ANS – Turin – March 23, 2025) – The week ahead represents a crucial moment for the 29th General Chapter, during which the capitulars will elect Don Bosco’s 11th successor, along with the vicar general and the general councilors. It’s a decisive week for the future of the Salesian Congregation, to be lived in an atmosphere of intense prayer, reflection, and discernment.

Accompanying the capitulars on this important journey of discernment is Fr. Amedeo Cencini, a prominent figure in spiritual guidance and decision-making processes. With his experience and sensitivity, Fr. Cencini will guide the proceedings so that every step is inspired by the Holy Spirit. While the capitulars reflect and discern, the Salesian world and the Salesian Family across the globe unite in prayer, spiritually supporting this precious and decisive moment for the future of the Salesian mission.

Below is the schedule for the week, with an analysis of the highlights of each day.

Sunday, March 23: Opening the Week with Reflection and Prayer

The week begins at 4:00 p.m. in the aula magna with an opening prayer and a greeting from the president of the general chapter. This will be followed by a meditation from Fr. Amedeo Cencini, who will introduce the capitulars to the spirit of spiritual discernment needed for the days ahead.

The day will conclude with Vespers in the basilica of MHC at 7:30 p.m. and Eucharistic adoration in the church of St. Francis de Sales, fostering an atmosphere of contemplation and prayer.

Monday, March 24: Preparation for the Election of the Rector Major

The day will begin with Mass celebrated at 7:00 a.m. by Fr. Cencini. Following this, the capitulars will gather for a moment of prayer and reflection, followed by group work to define the expectations and profile of the new rector major, in light of the experience of the 2020–2024 term.

In the afternoon, each capitular will propose a name for the position of rector major. The committees will then synthesize the results and proceed with a secret vote to identify the main candidates. At 6:30 p.m. in the aula magna, the synthesis of expectations and profiles will be presented, followed by silent reflection and a preliminary vote. The day will conclude with the Rosary and Eucharistic adoration, led by the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA).

Tuesday, March 25: Election of the 12th Rector Major

Tuesday will be the most significant day of the week, as the final voting for the new rector major will take place. After the Eucharist at 7:00 a.m., the capitulars will gather in prayer and silence, invoking the Holy Spirit before proceeding with the election.

Once elected, the new rector major will accept the position, make the profession of faith, and receive greetings from his confreres and the mother general of the FMAs. In the afternoon, attention will turn to the discernment process for the selection of the vicar of the rector major, through group discussions and personal reflections. The day will conclude with a Eucharistic adoration of thanksgiving.

Wednesday, March 26: Election of the Vicar of the Rector Major

The day will begin with Mass celebrated by the new rector major. After the presentation of the synthesis of expectations and profiles, the capitulars will proceed with the final vote for the vicar of the rector major. The vicar will accept the position, make the profession of faith, and sign the official acceptance.

In the afternoon, the committees will work on defining the expectations and profiles of the general councilors for formation and youth ministry, 2 pivotal roles for the future of the Congregation.

Thursday, March 27: Discernment for Communications, Missions, and the Treasurer General

The day will focus on the discernment and election of the general councilors for communications and the missions, and the treasurer general. Thru moments of prayer, discussions, and voting, the capitulars will reflect on the specific needs of these sectors, ensuring that the elected candidates are prepared to address the challenges of our time.

The day will conclude with Eucharistic adoration, maintaining the spirit of prayer and unity.

Friday, March 28: Election of Department Councilors

Friday will be dedicated to the election of the department councilors and the beginning of discernment for the regional councilors. As previously noted, this time 2 regional councilors will be appointed for Africa. The morning will begin with a presentation of the profiles and expectations for each role, followed by voting. Each election will be accompanied by the acceptance of the position by the elected candidates.

In the afternoon, the capitulars will work in regional committees to prepare for the final vote for the regional councilors, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of the different regions are represented.

Saturday, March 29: Election of Regional Councilors

The final day will begin with a summary of the profiles and expectations for the regional councilors, followed by the final vote in the aula magna. The new regional councilors will accept their positions and join the governing team of the Congregation.

The week will conclude with Solemn Vespers in the basilica at 7:00 p.m. and a festive dinner, celebrating the unity and renewal of the Salesian Family.

This week of elections represents a historic moment for the Salesian Congregation, during which the new leadership that will guide Don Bosco’s mission for the next 6 years will be defined. Under the spiritual guidance of Fr. Amedeo Cencini, the capitulars will experience a profound discernment process, seeking the inspiration of the Holy Spirit for every decision.

The Salesian world and the Salesian Family across the globe are united in prayer, spiritually supporting this moment of grace and asking for God’s blessing upon the newly elected leaders. Don Bosco’s mission continues, and this week marks the beginning of a new chapter of service to young people, especially the most vulnerable, with renewed enthusiasm and vision.