Fr. Amedeo Cencini, a prominent figure in spiritual guidance and decision-making processes, will accompany the capitulars on this important journey of discernment. With his experience and sensitivity, Fr. Cencini will guide the proceedings so that the Holy Spirit inspires every step. While the capitulars reflect and discern, the Salesian world and the Salesian Family unite in prayer, spiritually supporting this precious and decisive moment for the future of the Salesian mission.

Schedule for the week

Monday, March 24: Preparation for the Election of the Rector Major

The day will begin with the Eucharist, which Fr. Cencini celebrates at 7:00 am. Following this, the capitulars will gather for a moment of prayer and reflection, followed by group work to define the expectations and profile of the new Rector Major in light of the experience of the 2020–2024 term.

In the afternoon, each capitular will propose a name for the position of Rector Major. The commissions will then synthesize the results and proceed with a secret vote to identify the leading candidates. Expectations and profiles will be synthesized at 6:30 pm in the Aula Magna, followed by silent reflection and a preliminary vote. The day will conclude with the Rosary and Eucharistic Adoration, led by the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA).

Tuesday, March 25: Election of the 11th Rector Major

Tuesday will be the most significant day of the week, as the final voting for the new Rector Major will take place. After the morning Eucharist at 7:00 am, the capitulars will gather in prayer and silence, invoking the Holy Spirit before proceeding with the election.

Once elected, the new Rector Major will accept the position, make the profession of faith, and receive greetings from his confreres and the Mother General of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA). In the afternoon, attention will turn to the discernment process for selecting the Vicar of the Rector Major through group discussions and personal reflections. The day will conclude with a Eucharistic Adoration of Thanksgiving.

Wednesday, March 26: Election of the Vicar of the Rector Major

The day will begin with the Eucharist, which the new Rector Major will celebrate. After the presentation of the synthesis of expectations and profiles, the capitulars will proceed with the final vote for the Vicar of the Rector Major. The Vicar will accept the position, make the profession of faith, and sign the official acceptance.

In the afternoon, the commissions will work on defining the expectations and profiles of the General Councillors for Formation and Youth Ministry, two pivotal roles for the Congregation's future.

Thursday, March 27: Discernment for Communication, Missions, and the General Economer

The day will focus on the discernment and election of the General Councillors for Social Communication, Missions, and the General Economer. Through moments of prayer, discussions, and voting, the capitulars will reflect on the specific needs of these sectors, ensuring that the elected candidates are prepared to address the challenges of our time.

The day will conclude with Eucharistic Adoration, maintaining the spirit of prayer and unity.

Friday, March 28: Election of Sector Councillors

Friday is dedicated to the election of the Sector Councilors and the beginning of discernment for the Regional Councillors. As previously noted, two Regional Councillors will be appointed for Africa and Madagascar. The morning will begin with a presentation of the profiles and expectations for each role, followed by voting. Each election will be accompanied by the acceptance of the position by the elected candidates.

In the afternoon, the capitulars will work in regional commissions to prepare for the final vote for the Regional Councillors, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of the different regions are represented.

Saturday, March 29: Election of Regional Councillors

The final day will begin with a summary of the profiles and expectations for the Regional Councillors, followed by the final vote in the Aula Magna. The new Regional Councillors will accept their positions and join the Congregation's governing team.

The week will conclude with Solemn Vespers in the Basilica at 7:00 pm and a festive dinner, celebrating the unity and renewal of the Salesian Family.

The Salesian world and the Salesian Family worldwide are united in prayer, spiritually supporting this moment of grace and asking for God's blessing upon the newly elected leaders. Don Bosco's mission continues, and this week marks the beginning of a new chapter of service to young people, especially the most vulnerable, with renewed enthusiasm and vision.

Courtesy: ANS-Turin