Characteristics of Salesian Animation

By Fr. Lou Molinelli, SDB, Province Delegate of Youth Ministry

The Salesian Youth Ministry Frame of Reference develops a framework for how Salesians and their collaborators work among the young. The term we use is pastoral animation. However, for us, animation is more than managing, running, and organizing works and activities. While this is necessary, we need to consider how we do this. Thus, we read on page 269 of the Frame of Reference:

Animation is a form of contemplating, thinking, feeling, and acting which is characteristic of someone who has taken on a particular responsibility for government and who, independently of that role, is involved in pastoral activity among the young.

This is the style handed down to us by St. John Bosco. Don Bosco did all from the perspective of his relationship with God which overflowed in his mission to the young. His style, out of which developed the Preventive System, created a family of mutuality and respect, set solidly on the building of relationships. Salesian animation involves the involvement of people in a relationship with God, family, and one another. The following points are key to the animation of the Salesian practice of youth ministry:

1. Involvement of as many people as possible made up of Salesians and collaborators.
2. Motivated by a clear understanding and reflection on the criteria and objectives set out in the Frame of Reference.
3. Continuous accompaniment of the young throughout their years with us and after to provide unity.
4. A clear sense of planning of the Salesian Educative Pastoral Plan (SEPP), which brings the young to the point of vocational choice.
5. Unity and communion in this shared project.
6. Fostering an exchange of information and communication, promotion and collaboration, creativity, and a sense of belonging.
7. The urgent need for a continuous reflection on the situation of the young and on a pastoral program that corresponds to these needs.

Think about the youth/young adult ministry that you serve. Does this style of animation fit the description of your role as a minister? Can you see these characteristics as the animation of your planning? Like Don Bosco, we need to be intentional about our role as ministers to the young. The ultimate goal is the salvation of souls. Let us keep this as our priority!