Salesian Congregation Marks 150th Anniversary of Its Missionary Journey with Global Celebrations

The Salesian Society of Saint Francis de Sales is celebrating the 150th anniversary of its missionary journey (which began on November 11, 1875) this year. The celebrations, under the theme Give Thanks, Rethink, Relaunch, commenced on November 11, 2024, and will continue throughout 2025.

During this period, Salesian Provinces across the globe will implement concrete missionary initiatives and prayer moments. These efforts will serve as enduring signs of gratitude and commitment to the Salesian missionary spirit. The celebration will culminate at the congregational level with the central missionary send-off set for November 11, 2025, at the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Valdocco, Turin. This event will be led by the new Rector Major of the congregation and will reaffirm the Salesians' missionary commitment before the Blessed Mother.

The anniversary theme, Give Thanks, Rethink, and Relaunch, reflects the threefold purpose of the celebrations. Give Thanks highlights the congregation’s gratitude to God for the missionary vocation that has enabled members of the order to serve poor and abandoned youth in 137 countries worldwide.

The Rethink aspect encourages reflection on the Salesian Missions in light of contemporary challenges and new missiological insights. It calls for a renewed vision to adapt and respond effectively to emerging realities while remaining faithful to the charism of St. Don Bosco.

Finally, Relaunch inspires the Salesian Family to embrace the future with enthusiasm and to strengthen or launch new initiatives that will leave a lasting impact on the Congregation’s work.

Fr. Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for Missions, emphasized that the celebrations aim to keep missionary enthusiasm alive within the Congregation, fostering greater zeal and generosity. He highlighted that the missionary spirit revitalizes the Salesians, making the Congregation vibrant and appealing to new vocations.

The official logo for the anniversary celebrations, designed by Martina Mončeková from Czechia, captures the essence of the Salesian mission journey. It features a globe with waves, symbolizing courage, challenges, and dynamism. The red figures embody missionary enthusiasm, while the ship represents the first expedition of the congregation in 1875. The wheel design symbolizes unity and connection, reinforcing the idea that the Salesian mission is a shared, charismatic gift from Don Bosco to the entire Salesian Family.

By Fr. Amalraj SDB,

Salesian Province of Dimapur