Don bosco and the salesians
Don Bosco "St. John Bosco" was a humble Italian Roman Catholic priest in the 19th century who dedicated his life to the poor and the young. At a young age, he had a series of "dreams" that took the central role in his mission and work. As a priest, he saw the state of poverty that was rampant in the city of Turin, and so he sought to feed and educate poor boys from the street from his own means. Despite his difficulties in trying to secure basic needs for the boys, he was gradually able to find a home for them in his own oratory. As a great follower of St. Francis De Sale's spirituality, he founded the "Salesians of Don Bosco" in 1859, which consist of a religious society of priests and brothers. Their mission statement is: "to be Church signs and bearers of love of God for young people and the poor."
Giovanni cagliero
The "Young Caglieros Outreach Movement" takes it name from Giovanni, or John Cagliero, later known as Bishop Cagliero, was one of the boys that Don Bosco took into his home and was one of the first to join the Salesians of Don Bosco. He was ordained as a priest in 1862 and led the first ten Salesians to Patagonia in South America.
Salesian Cooperators
The Association of Salesian Cooperators is a group of lay Catholics formed by Saint John Bosco and Pope Pius IX in 1876. It was originally established as a supporting arm for Don Bosco's ministries in serving young people and helping them grow their talents in service and love of Christ. He invited people into the group whom he felt had the talent and desire to minister specifically to youth.
In modern times, the Salesian Cooperators are single or married lay men and women or diocesan clergy who dedicate themselves to the welfare of young people and live guided by Don Bosco's Salesian Spirit. Generally the Salesian Cooperators are affiliated with a local Salesian school, parish and youth centre. Some Cooperators work directly in Salesian ministries while others serve in their parishes or other ministries. Some do not work directly with any particular ministry but bring the Salesian Spirit to their work place and family. The core of the Salesian Cooperator's commitment is to live his or her life as a good Christian and a good Catholic. The Salesian Cooperator embraces a Gospel way of life, sharing in the Church's mission to bring Christ to society, especially to the young. |