NEWS
With the election of the new General Council members concluded, the focus now shifts to approving the documents summarizing the Congregation's high-level reflections. These documents will serve as guiding principles for every community, ensuring that the figure of Don Bosco remains relevant, especially for vulnerable and marginalized young people.
The seventh week of the General Chapter begins in a spirit of discernment and intensity, marked by several key events. The work focuses on the presentation and voting of deliberations 18-27, the development of Core 1 and 2, and an important emphasis on some current issues. The week also includes moments of spirituality, cultural activities, and fraternal sharing.
Speaking on behalf of all Chapter members, the Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard, acknowledged the service rendered by the outgoing councillors. A long, heartfelt round of applause confirmed their appreciation and affection for their contributions.
The 29th General Chapter elected the following Salesians as Regional Councillors:
East & South Africa - Fr Bizimana Innocent
Central & Western Africa - Fr Alphonse Owoudou
America South Cone - Fr Romero Hector Gabriel
East Asia & Oceania - Fr Matthew Williams
South Asia - Fr Biju Michael
Central & Northern Europe - Fr Roman Jachimowicz
Interamerica - Fr Hugo Orozco Sanchez
Mediterranean - Fr Juan Carlos Godoy
The South Asian Region Salesians warmly greet Fr Biju Michael for being re-elected as the Regional Councillor for South Asia.
Congratulations!
The 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Gabriel Stawowy from Poland as the new Economer General of the Congregation. As the new Economer General, Fr. Gabriel brings decades of financial and administrative expertise to ensure the responsible stewardship of Salesian resources in service of the Congregation’s mission worldwide. He is fluent in Polish, Italian, and English.
The 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Fidel Maria Orendain as the new General Councilor for Social Communication. He was the Provincial of the Mary Help of Christians, Province of Southern Philippines (FIS).
The 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Jorge Mario Crisafulli as the new General Councillor for the Missions. He was the Provincial Superior of the Africa Nigeria-Niger Province (ANN). Fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, Fr. Crisafulli steps into his new role, bringing decades of missionary experience and leadership to the global Salesian Congregation.
The 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Rafael Bejarano as the new General Councillor for the Youth Ministry. Fr. Rafael Bejarano Rivera, a Salesian from the San Luis Bertrán Province of Colombia-Medellín (COM), was born on December 1, 1977, in Buga, Colombia.
The 29th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation elected Fr. Silvio Roggia as the new General Councillor for Formation. Fr. Silvio Roggia, an Italian Salesian originally from Piedmont, was born on July 4, 1963, in Novello, Province of Cuneo, in the Diocese of Alba.
Fr. Fabio Attard, the new Rector Major and 11th Successor of Don Bosco, presided over his first Mass at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Valdocco, Turin. It was a solemn and profoundly spiritual occasion marked by gratitude and reflection, during which the Salesian Family gathered to thank God for the Eucharist gift and meditate on the mission and vision of Don Bosco's successor.
In a 20-minute speech, Fr. Fabio, the newly elected Rector Major, outlined perspectives and clear priorities, offering thought-provoking challenges. Speaking in a warm and direct tone, he emphasized the importance of clarity in Salesian identity and the significance of the day's event.
The 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales elected Fr. Stefano Martoglio as the Vicar of the Rector Major, a post he was already holding. Confirming his election, a long and warm round of applause welcomed Fr. Stefano in the Teatro Grande of Valdocco.
Contacted by phone after the first round of voting in which he was elected Rector Major, Fr Attard, with a calm yet emotional voice, responded to the question posed by the President of the General Chapter, Fr. Stefano Martoglio, whether he would accept this new responsibility: "If my confreres have placed their trust in me, with the Grace of God, I will do my best." Fr. Fabio Attard, 66, with 45 years of Salesian life, is the first Maltese Salesian to hold this role.
A visionary and charismatic leader, Fr. Fabio Attard brings to the helm of the Salesian Congregation a profound spirituality, a dynamic and forward-thinking vision, and decades of rich pastoral and administrative experience. As the new Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard will lead a Congregation of 13,750 consecrated Salesians, organized in 92 provinces and present in 136 nations.
The 11th successor of Don Bosco.
Viva Don Bosco! Viva Don Fabio!
Chapter Matters -
Let's speak up ! Let's chat.
This open forum is a space for you to share your thoughts and ideas freely. You may find others who share similar perspectives, and you may also encounter different viewpoints. Remember that respectful dialogue is a valuable learning opportunity for everyone. Let's engage in discussions that build and strengthen our community.
Regional Councillors:East & South Africa - Fr Bizimana Innocent
Central & Western Africa - Fr Alphonse Owoudou
America South Cone - Fr Romero Hector Gabriel
East Asia & Oceania - Fr Matthew Williams
South Asia - Fr Biju Michael
Central & N. Europe - Fr Roman Jachimowicz
Interamerica - Fr Hugo Orozco Sanchez
Mediterranean - Fr Juan Carlos Godoy
The Regional Councillor, South Asia speaks to the media-
SA - Benevolent Giants of the Congregation
Most Viewed News
Fr. Fabio Attard to Lead the Salesian Congregation
Fr. Fabio Attard's First Address as Rector Major
GC29: Springing Two New Regions: 'East and South Africa' and 'Central and West Africa'
Top Rated News
GC29: Springing Two New Regions: 'East and South Africa' and 'Central and West Africa'
GC29: Voting on Deliberations; No required Majority on Proposals
GC29: Refines Core Document on Animation and Care of True Life
