Remembering Pope Francis: A Leader Who Inspired Through Service and Love

Salesian Missions, the American outreach of the Salesians of Don Bosco, is united with the Salesian Family and Christians around the world in grieving the loss of Pope Francis. Although he belonged to the Jesuit order, his enduring friendship with the Salesians profoundly marked his life and leadership.

Pope Francis, a beacon for many, was deeply rooted in Salesian education. His early years were shaped by the Salesian community, as he was both baptized and educated by Salesian priests. This formative experience created an indelible bond with the Salesians, from which he drew inspiration throughout his esteemed vocation. It is noteworthy that the same Salesian priest who baptized him also played a pivotal role in introducing his parents to one another.

Earlier this month, although Pope Francis could not physically attend a gathering for Salesian chapter members due to health concerns, he sent an encouraging message. The theme of the meeting focused on being 'Passionately Committed to Jesus Christ, Devoted to the Young.' In a reported message reflected by the Catholic Review, he praised the attendees’ commitment to embodying the ideals of passion and dedication in their service to young people.

"It emphasizes being 'passionate' and 'dedicated,' embracing the Lord’s love fully, and serving others generously, mirroring the legacy of your founder," he articulated. This reflection points to the core mission of the Salesians: to care for and educate youth, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.

Founded by St. John Bosco in northern Italy in 1859, the Salesians were established to provide guidance and education to marginalized youth. In his statement, Pope Francis acknowledged that while the challenges have evolved, the Salesians' enduring faith and enthusiasm remain steadfast, enriched by the contemporary value of interculturality.

Pope Francis’s priorities resonate deeply with the mission of the Salesian community, focusing on uplifting the impoverished and advocating for environmental stewardship. This commitment led Salesian institutions globally to embrace sustainability initiatives in honor of the pope’s vision.

“Pope Francis will undoubtedly be remembered for his deep love for the impoverished and his unwavering advocacy for marginalized individuals, particularly migrants, as well as his commitment to environmental issues,” stated Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. He emphasized that honoring Pope Francis’s legacy involves embodying his values of care for the poor, the marginalized, and the Earth itself.

Salesian Missions operates across 130 countries, with over 30,000 missionaries dedicated to offering educational opportunities, workforce training, humanitarian assistance, youth engagement programs, healthcare services, and sustenance programs for impoverished youth and their families.

Salesian Missions, based in New Rochelle, NY, is part of the Don Bosco Network, a global federation of Salesian NGOs focused on supporting youth and families in impoverished communities worldwide. With a commitment to help youth become self-sufficient, the organization funds various international programs that have already assisted over 3 million children regardless of their race or religion. This dedication to service aligns seamlessly with Pope Francis's teachings, underlining the call to care for one another.

For those looking to learn more about Salesian Missions and their work, or to contribute to their global outreach, visit SalesianMissions.org. The impactful initiatives carried out by the Salesian missionaries demonstrate an enduring commitment to Pope Francis’s spirit of service and love for humanity as they continue their noble mission worldwide.