Salesian Family

St. Francis de Sales, the zealous pastor and doctor of charity, inspired Don Bosco by his optimistic humanism and his complete dedication to the pastoral care of souls. In 1854 he declared: “The Madonna wishes that we begin a Society. I have decided to call ourselves Salesians. Let us put ourselves under the protection of St. Francis de Sales, so that we may obtain his extraordinary gentleness.” In 1854, Don Bosco gave the name ‘Society of St. Francis de Sales’ to the first band of 17 young men who wished to follow him in his work for youth.

The Salesian Coat of Arms, designed by Professor Boidi, appeared for the first time in a circular letter of Don Bosco’s on 8th December 1885.

The shining star, the large anchor, the heart on fire symbolize the theological virtues; the figure of St. Francis de Sales recalls the Patron of the Society; the small wood in the lower part reminds us of the Founder; the high mountains signify the heights of perfection towards which members strive; the interwoven palm and laurel that enfold the shield either side are emblematic of the prize reserved for a virtuous and sacrificial life. The motto Da mihi animas, caetera tolle, expresses every Salesian’s ideal.

The Salesian Logo has two superimposed images. In the background, an “S” (for Salesians) is formed within a globe, like a road winding between hills. Over this is a stylized arrow pointing upwards. This symbolizes the Salesian, embracing the young, leading them and journeying with them. It also represents a home held up by the three pillars of Reason, Religion and Loving Kindness

Salesians in the World

The Salesians have spread to every continent on this planet and they have made their presence felt especially in championing the cause of the young.

Salesians in Higher Education

It has not only been basic education and skills training. Salesians have trained themselves to establish institutes of Higher Education in various countries and have earned several accolades for their competence and quality of education.

The First group of Salesian Missionaries to Tanjore – 1906

Here is the first band of Salesians who stepped ashore here in India and it was from then that the Salesians spread up north. They landed in Bombay and then went down to Madras and finally settled in Tanjore where they established themselves and spread.

Tanjore

The impressive work in the next six years, which saw Fr. Mathias being appointed Provincial of India and then Bishop of Madras. From the little orphanage at Tanjore the school grew and local vocations began to sprout in the person of Cl. Sandanam, Br. Lourdes and others.

Centenary

It was now time to look to the rest of India. The superiors in Rome looked to the north and found very fertile ground. Other missionaries had passed through Assam and moved on to Tibet. It was Providence that directed the Salesians to Assam and Shillong and this was the first band on the eve of their departure. Quite a few of them are laid to rest in Indian soil, a tribute to a life spent here…in the service of youth.

Youth Services in India

 

Mumbai Province

The Salesians came to the city of Mumbai on 16th May 1928 and established themselves there with just one presence. They now have 34 presences in three states (Maharashtra, Gujarat and east Madhya Pradesh.

Fr. Aurelius Maschio

Fr. Aurelius Maschio came to Mumbai from the mission of Cherrapunji on 20^th February 1937 and would establish the Salesians in the city and then in the region. He is rightly acknowledged as the patriarch of the Mumbai Province today.

Academic Education

In the sphere of education the Salesians come into their own. They arrived on the scene rather late compared to other illustrious religious congregations but they have not ceased to make their mark through their impressive educational institutions.

Technical Education

In this region of the country to which millions of youth are flocking, looking for a future, the Salesians are ready to offer this most vulnerable part of human society skills that will equip them to join the workforce to build the nation through their competence.

Parishes

Though parishes are not the raison d’être of their work, this ministry allows the Salesians to meet youth in this pastoral setting offering them what they do best: their presence.

Youth at Risk

Several of the youth the Salesians encounter do not come to our structured institutions. Youngsters migrating to the cities, roofless and rootless find in the Salesian Shelters homes with a heart that makes them feel safe and secure.

Formation Houses

The task before the Salesian is daunting and they are prepared for this through several years of ‘formation’ at our various centres at Lonavla, Nashik and Pune. The resilience and spirituality that they develop helps them to make a difference in the life of the youngsters they will encounter.

Salesian Family

The Salesians are not alone in what they do. The 27 other members with the same spirit work hand in hand to bring to youngsters the assurance that ‘Don Bosco Cares’ through each of the members of the Salesian Family.

FMA

The first at hand are the Salesian Sisters – the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians who reach out to girls to do for them what the Salesians do for boys. Their presences in the four states on the west coast of India give girls the assurance they are elder sisters to them.

Don Bosco Development Society

It is not easy to work for children without caring for the families they come from. Several families in rural areas know that they can depend on the Salesians to assist them to become aware of their rights while learning to develop their skills in farming, eco-conservation.