On 31st January, we celebrate and give thanks for St John Bosco, our founder. Surrounded by poor young people in urban Turin in the nineteenth century, he recognised their difficulties; their need to be loved and respected; and he created an educational approach based on valuing and nurturing the young that would enable them to feel loved and to thrive.

Although it seems a world away, Turin in the Industrial Revolution has similarities to the 21st century, another time of rapid change and stress, where young people are in danger of being left in poverty, undervalued and even exploited.

Members of the Salesian Family all over the world - including priests, brothers and sisters, Cooperators, volunteers, teachers, youth workers - are still guided by Don Bosco's loving kindness in supporting and educating the young.

Happy Feast!

Don Bosco, pray for us as we continue your work!

A Teacher's Prayer to Don Bosco

St John Bosco,
Friend of the young,
Teacher in the ways of God,
Your dedication to empowering the needy inspires us still.
Help me to work for a better world,
where the young are given the chance to flourish,
where the poor's dream for justice can come true,
and where God's compassion is shown to be real.
Intercede for me as I bring my needs to you and to
our heavenly Mother, the Help of Christians.

Amen.

Via Aleteia