Drawing an analogy to the rural practice of scattering ashes over fields and gardens—ashes accumulated during winter from fires used for warmth—Fr. Roggia emphasized that the liturgical symbol of this day should be a gesture of renewal rather than mere mourning.

"The 40-day period we are entering is not just to immerse us in a sacred mourning," he explained. "It is not simply about making sacrifices through reduced consumption, but rather about setting out on a journey toward the fullness of life. Giving up something or dedicating more time to prayer should allow us to enter more deeply into our hearts. More than a time of mortification, Lent should be lived as a time of vivification."

Many present recognized a parallel between the liturgy of the Word and the work of the Salesians. Just as Lent prepares for renewal, so does the Chapter lay the groundwork for the future, identifying where the Salesian charism is sown.

"The days ahead are to reconcile us with others and ourselves," Fr. Roggia concluded. "It is a journey we repeat to renew a fundamental question: What truly defines me as a person?" This reflection applies to individuals and the Salesian family as they move forward.