Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Don Bosco was acutely aware that God called him for a unique mission on behalf of poor young people. Signs from on high, natural talents, the advice of prudent persons, personal discernment, the providential circumstances – all these things convinced him that God had bestowed singular gifts upon him and was asking him to dedicate himself entirely to the young: “I have promised God that I would give of myself to my last breath for my poor boys.” (C 1).
This mission to which the Lord called Don Bosco is characterised by its focus on the young, especially the poorest of them(C 26). Without these poor young people Don Bosco would be unrecognisable. “For you I study, for you I work, for you I live, for you I am ready even to give my life.” (C 14).
But together with his field of work Don Bosco sensed the unique purpose of his mission: to reveal to poor youngsters the love of God. He also discerned the motivational principles underlying a style of ministry suited to this end: the approach of the Good Shepherd.
Don Bosco offered his whole life for young people through a strongly unified life project: his priestly life, his educative activity, his multiple relationships and deep interior life, were all directed to the service of the young. “He took no step, he said no word, he took up no task that was not directed to the saving of the young.” (C 21).
God continues to call many other believers to carry on Don Bosco’s mission for the young. Among them are the religious Salesians (SDB) whom He consecrates, unites and sends out to be in the Church signs and bearers of the love of God for the young, especially the poorest.
Other groups of the Salesian Family share Don Bosco’s mission according to their specific vocations and life-styles; together with a vast movement of persons and groups, men and women from all walks of life they constitute the Salesian Movement.
Although the Salesian mission started with Don Bosco and his experience at Valdocco, it now knows no boundaries. It brings together a multitude of people and groups who work together spiritually and share in his educative and pastoral mission: the total well being of young people, especially the poorest.
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