Inspired by the example of St Francis de Sales, Don Bosco began his work with poor and abandoned young people in Turin in 1841. He would gather them for religious instruction, prayer, Mass and recreational activities. In 1845 Don Bosco opened a night school for boys in Valdocco, now part of the municipality of Turin in Italy. In the following years, he opened several more schools, and in 1854 drew up a set of rules for his helpers, which became the Rule of the Society of St Francis de Sales, which Pope Pius IX approved definitively in 1873. The Society grew rapidly, with houses established in France and Argentina within a year of the Society's formal recognition. Over the next decade the Salesians expanded into Austria, Britain, Spain, and several countries in South America. The death of Don Bosco in 1888 did not slow the Society's growth. By 1911 the Salesians were established throughout the world, including Colombia, China, India, South Africa, Tunisia, Venezuela and the United States. The congregation continued to spread so rapidly that it soon became the third largest among men's Catholic orders. Its works expanded to include trade, agricultural and academic schools; seminaries; recreational centres and youth clubs in large cities; summer camps and parishes.
How we celebrated the Feast
Don Bosco has once said: “my children, jump, run, play and make all the noise you want but avoid sin like the plague and you will surely gain heaven.” He was always keen on bringing the Salesian spirit of joy and he would use every Sunday and Feast Day to do just that. But he probably never thought that one of the most joyful celebrations in the calendar is going to be the Feast celebrated in his own honour.
31st January is one of those occasions that always puts a smile on your face. This is the day when we remember our Founder, the Father and Teacher of the young, Saint John Bosco. Salesian communities in the UK and all across the world mark this day in a special way.
Here in Bootle, our celebrations in fact began a few days early. This is because in our parish the Feast has been transferred to the nearest Sunday, to give an opportunity to as many parishioners as possible to take part. And it was a truly memorable day. We have noticed many new faces in the church, especially the young people. Fr Brian McGraw presided over the Mass and it was great to see many young people participating and joining our parish community for this special celebration.
After the Mass together with our Youth Active Team we have taken a group of young people to the cinema and for a meal. As recently there was the 15th anniversary of Kung-Fu Panda movie, we have decided to watch the new remake of the film. It was great fun! A meal at McDonalds afterwards completed the day. Viva Don Bosco!
The following day celebration continued in school. This year it was particularly important because our Salesian school has recently began a new chapter and it is now known as “The Salesian Academy of Saint John Bosco”. The Feast gave us a chance to introduce our Patron Saint to the young people and the staff, especially those who have joined us more recently. A service with the staff, school assemblies and celebrations in classrooms were all filled with joy.
One of the moments that I have especially appreciated was the chaplaincy celebration for the students of our Bosco Group. Students were sharing refreshments and watching the movie: “Don Bosco – the Magic Saint”. It is a really good production based on the play about the life of Don Bosco. Big thank you to the Salesian Youth Ministry Office for created this resource! The students thoroughly enjoyed the film and it was a great opportunity to learn and have fun. Finally, at the end of the day, our school youth club had its own special time. This was a surprise party prepared by Bro Nhan, and was greatly appreciated by the students.
What a great day, and what a great time! As we celebrate the Feast of St Jon Bosco, may he continue to guide us and pray for us. May we continue to live out our Salesian mission through our service and our love.
