The activities began with a preliminary session on Thursday, May 15, introduced by the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, who shared his vision for the six years, focusing on the style and core content that will guide the Congregation's journey.

On Friday, May 16, the work began in earnest with the presentation of the session agenda and key topics for discussion:

– A review of the 29th General Chapter (GC29);

– Strategic planning for the six-year term, based on the guidelines proposed by the Rector Major, which will shape all sector and regional programs as concrete applications of the overarching plan;

– Organizational structure of the Council's work, including defined schedules and procedures;

– Planning of Extraordinary Visitations over the six years, including dates and assigned Visitors;

– Organization of Team Visits, including methods and content;

– Structures and timelines for meetings between the Rector Major, his Vicar, and Sector Councillors, focused on building teams and sectoral vision within the Council's mission;

– Presentation of consultations for the appointment of new Provincials;

– Management of routine administrative matters.

From May 19 to 21, the General Council will meet in the morning, leaving afternoons for individual tasks or one-on-one meetings.

On Thursday, May 22, the entire Council will travel to Turin to participate in the celebration of the Feast of Mary Help of Christians at the Basilica of Valdocco.

A special day is planned for the eve of the feast, Friday, May 23. It will feature a pilgrimage and formation session at Colle Don Bosco in the morning, followed by a time of fellowship with novices from the international novitiate in the afternoon.

The highlight of the celebration will be on Saturday, May 24, when the Rector Major and the entire Council will actively lead the festivities, culminating in the traditional solemn procession of Mary Help of Christians through the streets of Turin.

The morning of Sunday, May 25 will continue in a spirit of fraternity and team building, with the Council returning to Rome in the evening. From Monday, May 26, the Council will resume its regular working schedule, continuing through Saturday, July 5.

During this phase, the distribution of mission funds will take place, the review and approval of the financial report will be conducted, and the new Superiors will be appointed for the following regions:

– Africa Ethiopia-Eritrea (AET)

– India-Mumbai (INB)

– Brazil-Belo Horizonte (BBH)

– Madagascar (MDG)

– Philippines South (FIS)

– Africa Nigeria-Niger (ANN)

Besides these, the General Councillors will also celebrate, in a format yet to be finalized, the Feast of Gratitude for the Rector Major, in conjunction with the feasts of St. John Bosco's name day and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This year's occasion will also include the reopening of Don Bosco's Rooms in Rome, which were newly restored, along with the renovation of the Salesian Generalate.

Source:ANS – Rome