From 10th to 12th April 2011 there was a meeting in Rome for those organising volunteers to work overseas in a Salesian missionary spirit. There were representatives from Australia, Austria, Czech Republic, Great Britain, Ireland, Poland and the USA.

The Rector Major (centre) with the group. Fr Vlav Klement is on the left of the photo and James Trewby is next to the Rector Major.

The meeting was organised by Fr Vlav Klement, General Councillor for the Missions. Our Rector Major, Fr Pascual Chez, spent time with the group on the final day.

Representing Great Britain was James Trewby, of Bosco Volunteer Action (BOVA). BOVA offers opportunities to adults (18+) to live and work with Salesian communities around the world, assisting in their work with young people while experiencing life outside of the UK. Placements last between one month and two years. In addition it supports and encourages methods of raising awareness of development issues. This includes short term group experiences of the developing world for groups from schools and sixth forms, working with other groups who have had an experience of poverty and instances of development education (justice and peace) within youth ministry.

You can read a fuller report of the meeting, with another photograph, on the ANS web site.