The Salesian Mission in the Americas

The Salesian Mission in the Americas
A network that beats with the heart of Don Bosco

(ANS – Medellin, Colombia – October 26, 2026) – The final day of the continental meeting of provincial superiors and youth ministry delegates from the Americas, held in Medellin October 19-23, was devoted to reflection on Salesian formation and its relationship with the educational and pastoral mission. Fr. Dominic Tran and Bro. Travis Gunther represented the New Rochelle Province.

Fr. Silvio Roggia, general councilor for formation, led the discussion on the 5th edition of the Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis et Studiorum, promulgated on January 26, 2026. His address provided an opportunity to explore the theme of Salesian formation as an ongoing process, which unfolds thruout one’s entire life and is oriented toward the mission of being educators and pastors of young people.

Under the theme “Networking, the dream continues,” for 5 days provincials, delegates, and representatives from various Salesian networks across the 2 American continents shared experiences and reflected on the current challenges facing Salesian youth ministry, on strengthening networking, and on collaboration between Salesian organizations.

The meeting was also attended by Fr. Rafael Bejarano, general councilor for youth ministry; Fr. Gabriel Romero, councilor for the America South Cone Region; and Fr. Hugo Orozco, councilor for the Interamerica Region.

One of the central themes was networking, understood as a way of living out Don Bosco’s mission together. Building on the Rector Major’s message and a reflection on the journey undertaken by the Congregation, the participants explored the relationship with the Don Bosco Network, mission offices, and Salesian NGOs, emphasizing the importance of sharing expertise, collaborating, and building sustainable networks in the service of young people.

The Salesian province of Medellin, Colombia, hosted the meeting, welcoming participants in an atmosphere of fraternity and shared Salesian charism. As part of the experience, the participants also visited Ciudad Don Bosco, where they were able to learn about the educational programs and holistic support services aimed at vulnerable young people.

At the end of the meeting, a renewed commitment was made to strengthen ties between the provinces and Salesian networks, to promote shared discernment, and to consolidate avenues of collaboration across the continents. The event also reaffirmed the close link between formation and youth ministry, areas that are fundamental for preparing Salesians capable of understanding new contexts and responding to the challenges facing young people.

“Networking, the dream continues” – this phrase sums up the desire to keep Don Bosco’s dream alive in the Americas, by uniting efforts and pooling gifts and resources to continue accompanying, educating, and evangelizing young people, especially those most in need.