On 8th December 1841, the recently ordained Fr John Bosco was preparing to say Mass, when he came across a frightened, ragged boy who had been sheltering in the church. Don Bosco talked to him gently, and learnt about his hard life and lack of education - both spiritual and academic. He taught the youngster the Hail Mary, and assured him of a welcome in future, asking him to bring his friends next week.

When a small group of young men arrived the next Sunday, the first Oratory was under way. Don Bosco made Our Blessed Lady a special patron of his work and a model for his Salesians and the boys they educated, 'In her we find a living presence and the help to decisively orient our life to Christ and to be ever more authentic in our rapport with Him.'

On 8th December each year, the Salesian Family all over the world remembers Don Bosco's words: 'All of our great initiatives began on the day of the Immaculate,' as we join in prayer to Our Lady on this wonderful feast of her Immaculate Conception.

Happy feast!