Having acknowledged the works of the Holy Spirit, one finds it necessary to interpret and appropriate, the signs of the diverse situations in which humanity finds itself. Throughout history, some people have listened intently to the internal voice of God and then intervened in the story of saving humanity. Consequently, the Spirit consecrates Salesians who are reincarnated historically in the person of Don Bosco, whose spirituality was drawn from St. Francis de Sales, with a goal of salvation.
Following Art. 21 of the Salesian Constitutions, Salesians are reminded of the good example of Don Bosco as a father and teacher, whom we ought to study and imitate, more so, his splendid blending of nature and grace as a deeply human person. Like Don Bosco, I always reflect on how much I can cultivate a spontaneous and consistent relationship with God through nurturing my gifts and listening to myself, the youth and other situations which I encounter! How much do I integrate my theoretical thoughts so as to understand reality as?” One would ask! Incidentally, Salesians could find a response in following Don Bosco who was deeply a man of God, filled with the Holy Spirit; living and seeing him who is invisible. Don Bosco realized his vocation to the young with firmness, constancy and the sensitivity of a generous heart, amidst the difficulties and fatigue. His target was saving the young and winning souls for God. Salesians imitate Jesus but in the style of Don Bosco, who as well was always in Union with God as a good Shepherd.
In attempting to encounter and understand the Salesian Spirituality today, we have to trace the roots and context of Don Bosco. Its only then that we shall be able to appropriately locate Don Bosco in our current situation and culture, without losing sight of what Don Bosco intended. As we study him, we should remember that our every study is aiming at being and sharing the gift of love, just as Don Bosco said, ‘studia di farte amare,’ or even when he underlines to the young: “For you, I study, for you I live…” Yes, we study, imitate and admire Don Bosco as a friend of the youth, whom the Lord has given to us. Besides, Don Bosco reminds us that the youth should not only be loved but they should realize that they are loved, by our own approach and friendship towards them. Don Bosco’s project of life and service of the young was characterized by the Preventive System based on reason, religion and loving kindness. This ought to be expressed at any time and in any community, in which a Salesian finds himself.
As we return to Don Bosco, every moment we ought to be vigilant in interpreting Don Bosco’s Charism; live it in the context where we find ourselves, without losing sight of the Da mihi animas. Don Bosco himself lived totally through, with and in God. His spirit is evidenced in the current distribution of Salesians in the world. Salesians today are said to be guided by the spirit and figure of Don Bosco who served God in faith, hope and love. May Don Bosco’s spirit motivate us every moment in our mission to the young.
Wanjala Moses
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