Salesian General Chapter begins
Provincials and delegates from all over the Salesian world are in Rome now for the 25th General Chapter of the Salesian Congregation. Among their tasks will be the election of a successor to Rector Major Juan Edmundo Vecchi, who died on 23 January. Taking the theme this year of: 'The Salesian Community Today,' the 231 delegates, who represent 17,000 religious worldwide, will examine three fundamental aspects of the Salesian community: fraternal life, evangelical witness and leadership among youth. Father Antonio Domenech, regulator of the chapter, said the "Salesian communities live the same conditions that families live. Their religious life and pastoral action experience the difficulties and challenges of the present great changes." "Many communities are small but must direct an amazing multiplicity of educational and apostolic works; the rhythms of life, schedules and demands of work are most varied; relations with individuals and institutions have multiplied." The Chapter began on 24 February and ends on 21 April. For daily reports, visit the Salesian website at: www.salesians.org.uk