Rector Major Reports on General Council's Winter Session

Rector Major Reports on the General Council’s Winter Session

(ANS – Rome – December 23, 2025) - In the Salesian Good Nite talk at the conclusion of the winter session of the general council on December 22, Fr. Fabio Attard addressed his confreres at general headquarters with a summary reflection aimed at understanding and implementing the strenna for 2026, inspired by the gospel theme of the wedding at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you.”

In his message, drawing inspiration from that gospel passage, the rector major proposed a unified framework articulated around four verbs, presented as reference criteria for the life, discernment, and service of Salesians working at the generalate.

First of all, to look at the reality of the Congregation and the world with attention and responsibility, grasping the signs of the times starting from a thoro knowledge of Don Bosco and the Salesian charism, as an essential basis for every service of animation and government.

Secondly, to listen to the reality in the light of the Word of God and spiritual life, avoiding merely functional readings of the processes underway and recognizing that only listening rooted in faith allows one to accompany current challenges with clarity.

The third verb, to choose, stressing the need for responsible and free discernment, based on a solid evangelical and charismatic identity, capable of dialoguing with cultural, social, and technological changes and of guiding the decisions of the central government with balance and foresight.

Finally, with the verb to act, indicating a style of service characterized by inner freedom, availability, and generosity, without personal interests or self-protection, witnessing in the daily life of the community what the central offices are called to promote thruout the Congregation.

During the Good Nite, the rector major also drew attention to confreres who are experiencing particular difficulties and persecution in various parts of the world, inviting everyone to be close to them in constant prayer and discreet and concrete solidarity.

The rector major then presented a summary of the main activities of the general council carried out during the winter session, highlighting some significant data relating to the work accomplished.

Between November 24 and December 23, the general council met 22 times, addressing the main issues of animation and governance of the Congregation. In addition to the council meetings, more than 20 interregional and intersectoral meetings were held during the session, aimed at coordinating the dicasteries and sharing in-depth discussions on topics of common interest.

During the same period, 14 provincials, 28 provincial councillors, 80 directors, and 1 novice master were appointed, ensuring the continuity of leadership and formation in the various provincial contexts.

In terms of structures, 7 houses were canonically established and 5 were canonically closed, while 4 non-canonical houses were opened, with no further closures of this type.

In conclusion, the rector major expressed his gratitude to the vicar, the councilors, the department collaborators, and all the staff at the generalate for their work and for the fraternal atmosphere that characterizes the life of the community. Finally, he entrusted the journey of the Congregation to the protection of Mary Help of Christians, inviting everyone to live the service they have received with fidelity, responsibility, and availability.